Glide through a wetland filled with wildlife

Add a restorative commune with nature to your weekend on a paddling adventure through Bellevue's Mercer Slough, the largest wetland on Lake Washington. No paddling experience? No problem.

Basic training, equipment and Bellevue Park Ranger guides will have you gliding a canoe through the lake like a real Northwest adventurer. Chances are you'll spot some otters, herons, turtles and other wetland wildlife as you glide through their habitat on a three-hour journey from Enatai Beach Park to Mercer Slough Nature Park.

Reservations are required for the 9 a.m.-noon trips on each Saturday, weather permitting, from now through October. Space is limited and tends to fill quickly. The capacity of each canoe is three adults or two adults and two children younger than 12. All equipment is provided, but children weighing less than 35 pounds must bring their own life jackets.

Participants paddle themselves, and no experience is necessary. The trips leave from Enatai Beach Park, 3519 108th Ave. S.E., Bellevue, and cost $6 per person or $15 per canoe. Call 425-452-6885 for reservations, or if you need more information, call Bellevue Parks Winters House Visitors Center at 425-452-2752.

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