Ardmore Park

Nature's Retreat

Situated in east Bellevue, Ardmore Park sprawls across 29.19 acres of refreshing natural landscape. It's one of those places where you can actually breathe - offering a mix of flat open spaces and gently rolling wooded areas with a seasonal stream cutting through. This diverse terrain creates mini-ecosystems that support all sorts of native plants and critters.

Walk beneath the towering conifers and leafy deciduous trees, and you'll feel miles away from suburbia, even though you're right in the middle of it. In summer, these woods become a natural air conditioner - a shady haven when temperatures climb.

Wildlife Wonderland

Bring your binoculars! Ardmore has become something of a hotspot for field trips and bird enthusiasts alike. Lucky visitors might spot Bald Eagles soaring overhead, Red-tailed Hawks perched on lookout branches, or Downy Woodpeckers tapping away at tree trunks.

The park is particularly known for its owl population. Spring brings these magnificent birds out in full force - though you'll want to keep a respectful distance during breeding season when they can get a bit territorial about their nesting areas.

Trails to Wander

A network of peaceful trails meanders across the park, well-suited for hiking, nature appreciation, or simply clearing your head. The main route, affectionately dubbed the "Warmup Trail," guides you through the woods with some brief challenging sections made manageable by sturdy wooden stairs.

Underfoot, you'll find trails cushioned with bark and wood chips - much gentler on the joints than concrete if you're out for a jog. At one end, a staircase connects to NE 24th Street, where you can continue your journey across the road.

Room to Play

Beyond the forested areas, two large playing fields offer wide-open spaces for impromptu games, picnics, or just sprawling out with a good book. These sunny clearings provide a nice contrast to the dappled shade of the wooded sections.

Four-legged friends are more than welcome here, making Ardmore a dog-friendly favorite among local pet owners. Depending on recent rainfall, the stream offers a natural water source for thirsty pups exploring the trails.

The Practical Stuff

Near one entrance, you'll find a playground area where kids can burn off energy while adults take a breather. Picnic tables and benches dot the landscape, primarily clustered around the playground for convenient snack breaks.

Public restrooms are available when nature calls. One thing to note: there's no dedicated parking lot, so you'll need to find street parking nearby. Also, the park doesn't currently offer handicap-accessible spaces.

Ardmore Park is a green space in Bellevue where you can reconnect with nature without having to venture far from home.