With some free time, drive out to Stanwood and visit the
Bonhoeffer Botanical Gardens (named after Dietrich Bonhoeffer). This location serves as a preservation site for indigenous plant and wildlife species in Washington State, the gardens offer educational and recreational
opportunities for guests of any demographic.
There is no entry fee, there may have been a box setup for
donations, but I didn’t see any. Guests can
park at Freeborn Church or smaller areas on the brim of the park. On Sunday there were two people playing fetch
with their dog upon my arrival. As this
place becomes a popular destination, which it will, more traffic can be
expected, but now it’s probably a good and quiet time as any to visit.
There are 16 kiosks organized and spread out along a nature
trail, traffic is motivated clockwise.
The kiosks serve as shelter from the elements and as educational stops,
displaying specific habitat information at that kiosk location. The trail is an easy stroll and handicap/wheelchair
accessible. For individuals who might
need walking assistance, there were a handful of walking aids conveniently
placed at random kiosks.
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| For protection from vandals, security is provided. |
On the surface of the wetland located at the center of the trail, along with other designated
locations, visitors can observe a variety of colorful and uniquely crafted
glass art. This combination of art and
nature encourages guests to reflect or obligate oneself to peace. At no cost, peace is what this natural area
exhibits, and if visitors allow themselves to be open to it, one might receive
something that lasts a lifetime.
