The Japanese Garden was designed by Fujitaro Kubota, a renowned landscape artist who also created the Seattle Japanese Garden.
The Moss Garden is one of the largest of its kind in North America, utilizing over 40 species of moss.
The property contains a 150-foot-long reflection pool that aligns with the residence's axis.
The reserve is an official Important Bird Area as designated by the National Audubon Society.
The estate was originally developed in the early 1950s after the Bloedels moved from Seattle to the island.
The 'Gatehouse' visitor center was originally built as a carriage house in the 1930s.
The reserve operates as an independent non-profit, receiving no tax funding for its daily operations.
The grounds include a Bird Marsh that features an observation blind for silent wildlife viewing.
Bloedel Reserve is a 150-acre forest garden and nature preserve located on the northern end of Bainbridge Island. The site features a mix of manicured gardens, including a Japanese Garden, a Moss Garden, and a reflection pond, transitioning into native second-growth forest. It was formerly the private estate of Prentice and Virginia Bloedel, who gifted the property to the community in 1986. The grounds are linked by a two-mile walking trail that connects various distinct biomes and habitats. A central feature is the former Bloedel residence, now a visitor center that maintains its original architectural design. The landscape architecture emphasizes a seamless integration between formal gardens and the wild, untamed Pacific Northwest environment. The preserve provides habitat for diverse wildlife, including eagles, herons, and deer. Visitors traverse multiple ecosystems, from lowland meadows to dense cedar and fir forests.
The reflection pool located directly in front of the main house.
Wear waterproof, comfortable walking shoes as trails can be damp and uneven.
Pack a light jacket, as the microclimate on the island can be significantly cooler than the mainland.
Visit the visitor center first to pick up a map, as GPS service can be intermittent on the trails.
Do not attempt to walk the entire perimeter on a strict schedule; the terrain is hilly and requires a steady, slow pace.
Closed on Mondays and major holidays.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive moss and forest floor ecosystems; no pets or picnics allowed.
