Marsh Island, Seattle

Marsh Island is on the north end of the Washington Arboretum.  The Arboretum's Waterfront Trail can lead you to Marsh and Foster Islands.

A floating pathway is set on the north end of the Union bay, so you can park your car in the parking lot of the Washington Arboretum, and then walk north along the tail, and walk along the path under Hwy-520 bridge, across water to the Foster Island and Marsh Island.

Marsh Island loop from Washington Arboretum Park

You can start the trip in the sunny day, and you'd better take a pair of waterproof hiking shoes. The path along the island are walkable during the non-rainy season, but few sections are either under the water or moist. With the waterproof hiking shoes, you can spend more time on enjoying the birds and pretty views.

After you cross the hwy-520, the open view you will see is the open picnic area near the lake. This is call Foster Point in the Foster Island. From here you can enjoy the view of the Union Bay, and Hwy-520 floating bridge on the east side.

Hwy-520 floating bridge viewed from Foster Point

From the Foster Point, you will find the path to Marsh Island on the left. The trail is pretty enjoyable, and the view is fantastic. 

Water lilies in Marsh Island

Northeast view from Marsh Island

Kayakers and water lilies

Kayakers and water lilies

Montlake Cut and Montlake Bridge viewed from
Lake Washington Ship Canal Waterside Trail