Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park | Redmond

Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park is a distinctive 68-acre community park located in Redmond, Washington, that seamlessly integrates recreational opportunities, equestrian facilities, and educational experiences within a pastoral setting. The park’s origins trace back to 1971, when the McWhirter family generously donated the land to the city of Redmond, aiming to preserve the farm’s agricultural heritage while providing a multi-use public space that serves residents of all ages and interests.

Landscape and Environment

The park’s landscape is a blend of open fields, forested areas, and maintained pasture lands that reflect its farming roots. These open spaces are interspersed with mature trees and natural vegetation, offering a peaceful rural atmosphere on the outskirts of the urban environment. The farm park functions as both a recreational hub and a green space that supports local wildlife, particularly bird species and small mammals that inhabit the bordering woodlands and meadows.

Equestrian Facilities and Activities

A defining feature of Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park is its comprehensive equestrian facilities, which cater to horse owners, riders, and enthusiasts:

Farrel-McWhirter Riding School: This facility provides a broad range of riding lessons and programs catering to various skill levels and age groups. For young children aged 3 to 6, pony rides are a popular introductory activity that fosters early interest and comfort with horses. Beyond basic riding lessons, the school offers specialty programs such as horseback yoga, combining physical fitness with equestrian discipline in a unique and engaging way.

Horse Arena and Trailer Parking: The park includes a public horse arena that serves as a training and practice area, complete with convenient trailer parking for horse owners who travel to the site. The arena supports various equestrian events and informal riding sessions.

Equestrian Trails: Surrounding the park is a 1.25-mile loop trail designed for multi-use, including horseback riding, hiking, and biking. This trail connects with the larger Puget Power Trail, which extends westward to the Sammamish River Trail, creating an expansive network for equestrian and recreational users to explore the broader region.

Recreational Amenities

Besides its equestrian focus, Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park offers a variety of recreational facilities:

Soft-Surface Trails: The perimeter loop trail and internal paths provide soft, natural surfaces suitable for walking, running, biking, and horseback riding. The trails meander through wooded areas and open meadows, providing scenic views and a tranquil environment for outdoor exercise.

Play Areas for Children: The park includes a modest play area and swings designed for young children, ensuring family-friendly facilities that complement the educational and outdoor experience.

Picnic Facilities: Covered picnic shelters equipped with electricity and running water offer convenient spaces for families and groups to gather, host celebrations, or simply relax outdoors. These shelters are popular spots for community events and private gatherings.

Barnyard and Educational Programs

The park’s barnyard is home to a collection of farm animals, providing an interactive and educational experience for visitors, particularly children and school groups. The barnyard helps connect the community to agricultural traditions and animal care, fostering awareness of farm life in an urbanizing area.

Year-round educational programs are offered, including nature preschool classes, summer camps, and farm-themed activities. These programs emphasize hands-on learning about animals, farming practices, ecology, and the natural world, contributing to community education and environmental stewardship.

Location and Accessibility

Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park is conveniently located at 19545 NE Redmond Road, accessible via Avondale Road and Novelty Hill Road. The park offers ample free parking, with separate areas for cars and horse trailers, facilitating easy access for all visitors.

The park is open daily from dawn to dusk, with the barnyard area specifically accessible from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to explore the trails, enjoy the open spaces, and participate in scheduled programs and events.

Community Engagement and Events

The park hosts numerous community-oriented activities, including youth sports leagues like basketball, pottery classes, and seasonal festivals that draw families and residents together. Pony rides, offered regularly, provide an engaging introduction to horseback riding for young children.

The combination of outdoor recreation, equestrian facilities, and educational offerings makes Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park a cherished community asset. It preserves agricultural heritage while supporting active lifestyles and lifelong learning in a natural, welcoming environment.

Summary

Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park exemplifies a multifunctional urban farm park that balances historical preservation, outdoor recreation, and educational enrichment. Its equestrian amenities stand out as a unique resource within Redmond, while the barnyard and nature programs connect people of all ages with farming traditions and environmental awareness. Surrounded by scenic trails and natural landscapes, the park invites visitors to enjoy the outdoors, learn about local ecology, and participate in vibrant community life, making it an essential green space within the city’s growing urban fabric.