Duwamish Hill Preserve

Duwamish Hill Preserve is a 10.5-acre public open space in Tukwila dedicated to conserving and enhancing its rich Native American cultural history, ecological significance, and community impact. Rising above the Duwamish River, the hill once served as a strategic vantage point where Native Americans could watch for incoming groups and communicate along the river valley. It also holds deep cultural resonance as part of the southern Puget Sound Salish oral tradition, appearing in the stories collectively known as the Epic of the Winds.

Public art throughout the preserve invites visitors to engage with this layered history. At the base of the hill is a Salish Cultural Garden complemented by illustrated interpretive signs created by local artist Mette Hanson. Etched bench backs share moments from Tukwila’s past, offering quiet places for reflection. On the northwest side, a large granite installation—Journey Through the Seasonal Rounds—depicts the traditional uses of native plants, honoring the enduring relationship between the Duwamish people and the land. Together, these artistic elements, cultural stories, and natural features create a meaningful, immersive experience for all who visit.

Thanks to the efforts of partners including Friends of the Hill, Forterra, and the City of Tukwila, the site has been actively restored since 2004 and now features an outdoor classroom, the Cultural Garden, an enhanced trail system, and ongoing volunteer restoration opportunities.

About the Artist:

Mette Hanson has over 20 years of experience as an interpretive professional creating exhibits, artwork and classes that cultivate connections between people and the natural world. Drawing upon an extensive background in art, education, and science, Mette specializes in creating signage that is both artistic and enlightening. To ensure accuracy and bring the story of a place to life, she conducts meticulous research from many angles: from consulting with local experts and studying scientific sources to immersing herself within a habitat. (Source: Artist Website).