Zylstra Lake Loop Trail

FEATURED WALK

Length: 2.33 miles
Estimated Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Loop
Submitted by: Fernando McVey

Green tree icons, one deciduous and one coniferous, on a white background.
green binoculars icon on white background
Green plant silhouette with three flowers and leaves on a white background.
Green bird silhouette on a white background.
Map showing Zylstra Lake Trail with marked green trail path around Zylstra Lake. Roads and elevation labels like Wold Rd, San Juan Valley Rd, and Dexter Ln are visible. The lake and trail loop features are highlighted with distances indicated.

This easy, scenic loop offers peaceful lake views, open farmland, and rich birdlife—perfect for a gentle walk immersed in nature.

The trail is well-marked and mostly flat, with seasonal boardwalks and a variety of habitats along the way. From sweeping vistas to quiet forest edges and a dam crossing, the route offers something for everyone, including great opportunities for birdwatching.

Entrance sign for Zylstra Lake Preserve next to a wooden fence and trees under a cloudy blue sky.
A grassy path leading into a landscape with hills, trees, and a partly cloudy sky.

1
Zylstra Trailhead & Start of the Loop

The trailhead and parking lot are just off San Juan Valley Road, making this loop easy to find and access. It’s a gentle, scenic walk with lake views throughout—great for all ages. Note: Dogs are not allowed from September through April to protect migratory waterfowl, especially swans.

From the parking area, head down the wide grassy trail leading west.

Scenic view of a lake with grassy shoreline, surrounded by trees and a building in the distance under a clear blue sky.

2
First Lake Views

You’ll quickly be rewarded with sweeping views across the lake and a broad, easy trail bordered by hedgerows and open fields.

Sign on a fence stating "Protected Farmland" with a tractor icon. It mentions "Active Agricultural Use Area" and "Authorized Personnel Beyond This Point Only." The background shows a field and blue sky.
Wooden plank pathway through a grassy wetland with trees and a blue sky.

3
Trail Turns South

The path turns south shortly after a side viewpoint overlooking King Sisters Preserve. The route is easy to follow as it gently loops around the lake. Please stay on the marked trail—this area is surrounded by protected farmland.
As you continue along the lake’s south side, the trail can get muddy in wet seasons, but seasonal boardwalks help keep it passable and enjoyable.

Scenic landscape with tall trees, grassy field, mossy rocks, and distant river.
Grassy path with trees and wooden bench under a blue sky

4
Detour Through the Firs

At the next fork, take a right at the bench to add a short detour. This path winds through a rockier landscape with tall Douglas firs and snags, then opens to views of the creek that eventually flows into False Bay—a lovely change of scenery.

Scenic view of a calm lake with grassy banks, surrounded by trees and an open field, under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

5
Crossing the Dam

Cross the dam to enjoy the closest access to the lake. This is a great place to pause, listen, and look for birds. In spring and summer, swallows swoop across the water, and you might hear flycatchers, warblers, and red-winged blackbirds. Zylstra is a favorite spot for birdwatchers.

Two signs in a grassy field near water. One sign is titled 'A Moveable Feast' about creating Island Marble Butterfly habitat. The other sign features an illustration of a butterfly and reads 'Partner in Island Marble Conservation.'
Farm scene with a barn, farmhouse, and horses in a green pasture.

6
Butterfly Habitat & Sanctuary

Past the dam, the trail passes habitat set aside for the endangered Island Marble Butterfly, and then Island Haven—an animal sanctuary that provides lifelong care for rescued horses and farm animals with chronic or age-related conditions.

Scenic landscape with grassy path, river, and forested area under blue sky with clouds.

7
Return Along the East Side

The trail turns north along the eastern edge of the lake, offering views of open farmland before returning you to the trailhead where you began.

A serene wetland scene with dry grass and leafless trees surrounding a small pond under a clear blue sky.
Scenic view of a flowing stream surrounded by green grass and trees under a clear blue sky.
Forest path with moss-covered trees and dense shrubs under a blue sky.
Sign stating 'Fishing Permitted on Dam' in a natural grassy and wetland area under a blue sky.