Kelsey Creek Park
Kelsey Creek Park Map
About Kelsey Creek Park in Bellevue
Kelsey Creek Park is a 150-acre public park located in Bellevue, Washington. The park offers a unique blend of natural areas and agricultural heritage, providing visitors with a glimpse into the region's rural past amidst an urban setting.
At the heart of the park are two historic barns, originally part of the Twin Valley Dairy, which are now listed in the State Heritage Barn Register. These structures sit atop a hill, overlooking shallow valleys on either side, creating a picturesque backdrop for park activities.
The park features a diverse landscape including forests, meadows, and wetlands. Kelsey Creek, the park's namesake, runs through the property, supporting a variety of wildlife including spawning salmon. The wetland areas provide habitat for migratory and resident birds, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.
For families and children, Kelsey Creek Park offers a unique farm experience. The park maintains a small working farm with various animals such as sheep, goats, chickens, and ponies. Visitors can observe these animals during regular hours, providing an educational opportunity for young ones to learn about farm life.
The park includes a network of hiking and jogging trails that wind through the forested areas and along the creek. These trails connect to the wider Lake to Lake Trail system, offering extended hiking opportunities. A 0.9-mile gravel loop around the farm and pastures is particularly popular for walking, jogging, and casual cycling.
Kelsey Creek Park also serves as an educational resource, offering guided tours and hands-on classes for children to experience various aspects of farm life. The park hosts several annual events, including a Farm Fair in the fall and a Sheep Shearing event in the spring.
For those seeking a quiet retreat, the park provides picnic areas and open grassy spaces ideal for relaxation or informal recreation. The historic Fraser Cabin, one of Bellevue's oldest structures, adds to the park's historical significance and educational value.