The West Hylebos Wetlands were “discovered” and protected by Francis and Ilene Marckx and the Friends of the Hylebos Wetlands. The Marckxes lived at the house near Marlake and after finding the wetlands in their backyard in 1971, led the effort to establish this park.

The Marckxes recognized the ecological value of the wetlands and its importance as a place where people could visit to learn about wetlands. Ilene and Francis Marckx donated 37 acres of their own land to the State of Washington to establish the State Park, which built the boardwalk and opened the park in 1991.

In 2003, the state transferred the West Hylebos Wetlands to the city of Federal Way. In 2007, the Friends of the Hylebos and the city of Federal Way Parks Department worked together to replace the park's boardwalk, which had begun to fail. This important project would have been impossible without the support of State Senator Tracey Eide, State Representatives Skip Priest and Mark Miloscia, and Congressman Adam Smith, who worked to secure funding for the project.

The board provides access to view and appreciate a rare wetlands environment. Wetlands are commonly referred to as swamps, marshes,
bogs, or fens.

Why are wetlands important?

• They prevent flooding during heavy rains.
• They store water for streams during dry summer months.
• They filter out sediment and pollutants.
• They provide habitat for many native plants and animals.

The West Hylebos Wetlands contain four types of wetlands, ranging from open water to damp forest land. More than 50 plant species, 30 lichens, 30 fungi, and 100 bird species have been found in the park. As you follow the trail into the forest, you will learn about the four kinds of wetlands and the fascinating plants and animals living here.

The West Hylebos wetlands formed as a lake in one of the many depressions left by the glaciers that covered Puget Sound more than 10,000 years ago. Over time the lake filled in with sediment and vegetation and the wetlands we see today began to emerge.