Explore + Restore: Cedar River Natural Area

In partnership with Facet Landscape Architects and the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, the City’s Parks and Recreation Department is exploring ways to restore and reimagine the Cedar River Natural Area as a welcoming, active, and ecologically resilient space that serves the entire community.

We’re Moving into the Next Project Phase

The Cedar River Natural Area Trails and Forest Restoration project is moving from the early ideas and planning stage into more detailed design, permitting, and construction documents. Our trail designers are mapping out/ground-truthing more detailed alignments in August and our biologists are completing forest health assessments and full wetland and stream delineations in September.

Project Update Key Takeways:

• The project is moving into design, focusing on restoring and slightly expanding existing forest trails and improving safety and access
• Community input highlighted priorities like safety, nature protection, walking and mountain biking trails, and balanced recreation options
• Future plans will focus on habitat restoration, better connections, and inclusive trail experiences for all skill levels
• Work completed so far includes site analysis, community events and surveys, and development of a concept design plan — view the full Park Programming Analysis for more detail
• City Council approved funding on April 13^th to keep the project moving.
• Another engagement event is being planned for fall of 2026—please subscribe to this page to stay informed and get involved

Project Goals

• Reconnect people with the forest through mountain biking and multi-use trails
• Create an all-level bike skills course for inclusive outdoor play
• Restore and enhance natural habitats
• Improve safety and reduce illegal activity
• Promote recreation that welcomes the entire Renton community

Stay Involved

Subscribe to this page to receive updates about upcoming events, surveys, and the project’s next steps.