Bastyr University trails

Location: Kenmore.

Length: Short stroll connects to several miles of forest trails.

Level of difficulty: Level-to-moderate grassy field (soggy after rains), paved walkways, and dirt/gravel forest trails.

Setting: Surrounded by the lovely forested grounds of St. Edward State Park, this former seminary now hosts the area's naturopathic university. A medicinal herb garden behind the school building groups labeled plants according to the systems in the human body that they support. Students at the school use the garden in their studies, and the school's unique vegetarian cafeteria (open to the public) includes some of the herbs in its culinary creations. Currently, spring bulbs are in full bloom in raised beds along the garden's edge. Paved paths lead up a broad grassy slope to overlook the gardens; at the far corner of the parking lot, you'll find the start of paths that lead through the forest and eventually connect with the state park trails.

Highlights: Shed your shoes and try out the garden's reflexology foot path, a 64-foot winding trail of smooth rocks set in concrete that stimulates neurological zones on the soles of the feet. Common throughout Asia, this path built last summer by volunteers is one of the few in North America. Free brochures explain the path's concepts.

Bastyr's annual Herb and Food Fair is May 14, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free and open to the public, the popular festival offers plant sales, garden and forest tours, lectures, musical entertainment, cooking demos and children's activities.

Facilities: Restrooms, water, cafeteria, bookstore and library inside school building (open seven days a week, except during school holidays).

Restrictions: Leash and scoop laws in effect. Parking is free (except for special events) but on weekdays, get a permit. Watch for stinging nettles along forest trails.

Directions: From Interstate 405 northbound, take Exit 20A (Northeast 116th Street). Turn left at the end of the exit ramp, and head west on Northeast 116th Street. Once you cross 98th Avenue Northeast, the road becomes Juanita Drive Northeast; in four more miles, turn left at the Bastyr University sign. From southbound I-405, take Exit 23 and head west on Highway 522. Turn left on 68th Avenue Northeast, which becomes Juanita Drive Northeast, and turn right at the Bastyr sign.

Information: 425-602-3103 or www.bastyr.edu/tour/herbgarden.