The Shinglemill Creek stream bed is gravel/pebble/sand and the presence of standing dead trees of mature age and layered organic and sand substrata in the lower reaches testify to numerous flood events and stream channel migrations over the years. The understory is predominately salmonberry and sword fern. The canopy is typical lowland forest of alder, maple, willow, hemlock, fir, and cedar.

The trailhead begins at across the road from the Vashon Winery and winds up and down through the ravine to Fern Cove. It is roughly 1.5 miles to Fern Cove with a complete near 3 miles out and back. Elevation begins at 426 feet dropping down to 64 feet at Fern Cove and back up again. If you keep an average pace of about 12:00 to 14:00 then the entire 3 miles will take you roughly 2 hours. Be sure to bring water and a good pair of shoes to handle the steep inclines.

The ravine terrain is steep and sandy and not appropriate or safe for horses or bicycles. Dogs are allowed on leash on the upper trails only. No domestic animals are allowed in the estuary/nature preserve in the lower area of the park. The trail crosses private property at the invitation of the landowners. Please respect their property rights by adhering closely to the trail rules.

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See Shinglemill Creek Preserve Map