Nora's Woods

A Hidden Natural Retreat

Positioned in Seattle's Madrona neighborhood, Nora's Woods is a pocket-sized natural haven that packs a lot of wilderness into its modest 0.35-acre (0.14 hectare) footprint. About the size of a regular house lot, this undeveloped city park and native plant garden offers a genuine slice of Pacific Northwest nature right in the urban landscape.

The park bears the name of Nora Wood, a Seattle resident who purchased this little piece of land in 1987. After her passing in 1989, she gifted it to The Trust for Public Land, ensuring this green space would remain unspoiled for generations to come.

What You'll Find Here

As you step into Nora's Woods, you'll discover a small wooded area that feels surprisingly removed from city life. The park unfolds across a gently sloping hillside with winding paths that invite exploration among the native vegetation. Plant enthusiasts will appreciate the informative plaques identifying various native species, offering a mini botanical education during your visit.

Your Visit

If you're seeking a quiet moment away from Seattle's bustle, this little woodland delivers. It's meant for a peaceful moment of reflection, a quiet reading session, or simply connecting with nature. While you won't find traditional park amenities, there is a rustic seating area with rocks and logs where you can pause and soak in the surroundings.

Feel free to bring your four-legged friend along - dogs are welcome to enjoy the natural setting with you. Just note that there are no restroom facilities available in this small preserve.

A Bit of History

The park as we know it today began taking shape in the late 1990s, when neighborhood volunteers rolled up their sleeves to transform what was then an overgrown, neglected plot into a public green space. Their efforts paid off when Nora's Woods officially became a city park in 1998.

Ecological Importance

Despite its small size, Nora's Woods plays a meaningful role in Seattle's urban ecosystem. It forms part of the Columbia Street pollinator pathway, creating vital connections with other green spaces including the 18th Avenue P-Patch and the Seattle University campus. This green corridor supports local biodiversity and provides an urban highway for bees, butterflies, and other wildlife.

This humble woodland is a beautiful example of community-driven conservation, preserving a glimpse of Seattle's original landscape amid the surrounding cityscape. It's a reminder that sometimes meaningful natural experiences come in small packages.