Scudder Pond Preserve

Photography

Best light

Morning lightOvercast

Recommended focal length

300–500mm

• The trail runs right along the pond, so birds are close; stand still and let wood ducks drift out of the cattails rather than walking the edge.
• Calm mornings give reflections among the lily pads. In some years a floating fern turns parts of the pond rusty pink, an unusual backdrop.
• Watch for beaver and muskrat at dawn and dusk; a quiet spot on the railroad-grade trail gives a clear view down the pond.

Access

Parking

No dedicated lot. Use street parking near Alabama Street and Electric Avenue, or park at Whatcom Falls Park and walk in.

Trails

A level city trail on the old railroad grade runs along the pond's east side, between the pond and Lake Whatcom, and links south into Whatcom Falls Park.

Restrictions

• A small, sensitive wildlife preserve: stay on the trail and keep dogs leashed.
• Don't trample the cattails or disturb beaver dams and lodges.

Before you go

• Lens: 300–500mm. Pack spare batteries; cold drains them fast.
• Review the access restrictions above and any posted closures.
• Check the weather and, on the shoreline, the tide forecast.
• Keep a respectful distance. If an animal changes its behavior, you're too close.