Westchester Lagoon Nature Trail

The feel

This is a short paved loop beside Chester Creek, wheelchair accessible and built in 1977 and 1978 as a nature trail. The path is 6 feet wide asphalt, repaved in 2019 with new interpretive signs, and it is used as an outdoor classroom.

Ducks, geese and moose are present at various times of year, and songbirds abound in summer. This is where still water first opens in spring, thawing westward across the upper lagoon. Salmon and trout are seen at various times of the year.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop, 0.7 mile, with about 5 ft of gain on paved asphalt, wheelchair accessible.

Time

About 0.5 hour.

Parking

A parking area on 19th Avenue, near Spenard Road. A trail runs along the south bank of the creek and branches into a short loop.

Kids

Kid-friendly and rated easy.

Hazards

Moose are present at various times of year.

Season and access

Pedestrian access is from 19th Avenue and from the Chester Creek Trail at two points, by walking bridges at Spenard Road and Bunker Street.

Mingo says

Come in spring to see the first open water of the year on the upper lagoon. Summer brings songbirds.

Before you go

• Park on 19th Avenue, or walk in from the Chester Creek Trail over the bridges at Spenard Road or Bunker Street.
• Keep your distance from moose.
• Fishing is possible here, since the amenities offer a safe place for it.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.