By Suzanne M. Wilson
Theler Wetlands in Belfair, WA is part of the Union River estuary. Due to extensive ecosystem restoration work there, wildlife habitat is making a comeback. For information on birds you might encounter at Theler Wetlands, see this article: https://blackhills-audubon.org/theler-wetlands-nature-preserve
The notes below are provided to give a few more details to help you plan for an informed and successful visit to Theler Wetlands.
There are four accessible ADA parking spots at the official trailhead, two of which are van accessible. However, non-ADA parking is abundant. The parking area is gently sloping. The restroom was closed at the time of my visit.
Rock Wall Trail beyond the parking area is surfaced with pea-gravel and descends downhill with some switchbacks. During heavy rains, rivulets probably develop on some trail sections. Flat sections could be muddy.
An out-and-back boardwalk section leads into the estuary and may feel narrow when passing other users. However, there is a railing and the view is worth it. Boardwalk sections are in fair to good condition. The surfaces are not smooth but are looked after and repaired as needed.
Not all boardwalks have railings. Buckets of gravel are available to sprinkle on icy trail sections.
A gate leads to a detour and onto a private road, NE Roessell Rd. After passing through the gate and traveling just a few yards on the road, the trail resumes on the left.
To avoid switchbacks and the gated detour, do not park at the official trailhead. Instead, drive down NE Roessell Rd. The turn is north of the official Theler Wetland parking area. Follow NE Roessell Rd to the Salmon Center and park across the street. There are no designated ADA parking spots. Van accessibility isn’t guaranteed.
The Salmon Center has a porta-potty (not ADA) and an indoor restroom with uncertain accessibility.
From the area opposite the Salmon Center, access the gravel trail which slopes up a bit at first but then is mainly flat. There is a bench at this point to take a rest or just to sit and enjoy your surroundings.
Expect some excellent concrete bridges and some boardwalks breaking up the mainly pea-gravel trail. The shade cover is sparse.
At the end of Roessell Rd is the Salmon Center barn. There is a kiosk with information regarding the Theler Wetland area. Near the kiosk, there is a path to an ADA vault toilet and a small picnic area. There is no water for drinking or washing.
Additional information can be found by visiting https://www.birdability.org and finding Theler Wetlands on the Birdability Map. This is a GIS map and it behaves differently than a Google map. You can help to improve the available information concerning accessibility by adding your own records to the Birdability Map by filling in and submitting a Birdability Site Review Checklist for any site that provides accessible birding.
Photos by Suzanne Wilson
