Ravensdale Retreat Natural Area is 145 acres of woods sandwiched between Kent-Kangley Road on the north and the Burlington Northern railroad tracks to the south. The "Gracie Trail" extends through the natural area to a gate at the east end (no parking there, however). The land across the railroad tracks is private logging company land (Ravensdale Ridge), and while you may see trails there, they are technically off-limits.
The main trail through the natural area runs the length of the parcel from west to east, with various side trails and loops leading off from it.
From route 18, take the Maple Valley exit and follow route 169 south through Maple Valley. Turn left onto Kent Kangley Road after almost 3 miles ("Four Corners"), then after 2 miles turn right onto 272nd Ave SE/Ravensdale Park (or continue another tenth of a mile and turn right onto SE Ravensdale Way). Parking is available in a gravel lot near the Gracie Hansen community center on Ravensdale Way.
From the parking, cross Ravensdale Way and find the "Gracie Trail" just a few dozen yards north of the park.
Open
Length: 2.5 miles
Surface: dirt, forest floor
Share with: hikers
Fee: none
Parking for: 4-5 trailers, across
the road at Gracie Hansen Community Center/Ravensdale Park
King County Natural Area: Ravensdale Retreat Natural Area