Get Here, Slow Down

A short ferry ride & a scenic island drive brings you to Iola Gardens - nestled near Dockton Park on the peaceful south end of Vashon Island.

📍 Iola Gardens
Near Dockton Park & Quartermaster Harbor

Please note: We aren't currently open for public visits or drop-ins as the grounds take a season to rest, but please feel free to reach out with any questions.

Map and Directions Below

Travel Guide:

Most frequent route from Seattle

West Seattle: Fauntleroy ↔ Vashon ~20 min

Guests from Olympic Peninsula

Kitsap Peninsula: Southworth ↔ Vashon ~13 min

Closest to Iola Gardens

Tacoma: Point Defiance ↔ Tahlequah ~15 min

🔗Washington State Ferries Schedule

Driving DirectionS

  • Based on the updated routes we found, here is the polished copy you can use for the Accordion blocks on your "Getting Here" page. It’s written to be clear, welcoming, and easy to read on a phone while driving.

    From Vashon Ferry Terminal (Fauntleroy – West Seattle Route)

    • Exit the Ferry: Head south on Vashon Hwy SW.

    • The Drive: Follow the highway for approximately 8 miles, passing through Vashon town center.

    • The Turn: Turn left onto SW Dockton Rd (located just past the Island Center Forest entrance).

    • Arrive: Follow SW Dockton Rd for about 4 miles along the harbor. Pass Engles Towing. Look for Deppman Rd sign. Iola Gardens will be on your left, just past 228th Ave SW.

    • Distance: 7.8 miles | Travel Time: ~14 minutes

    1. Exit the Ferry: Head north from the Tahlequah Ferry Terminal onto Vashon Hwy SW.

    2. Scenic Drive: Continue north for about 5.7 miles.

    3. The Turnoff: Turn right onto SW Quartermaster Dr. Follow this for 1.4 miles.

    4. Final Leg: Turn right onto Dockton Rd SW / George Edwards Rd.

    5. Arrival: Continue on Dockton Rd SW for 0.5 miles.

    6. ‍ Once you pass Engles Towing look for Deppman Rd sign and Iola Gardens will be on your left.

Parking at Iola Gardens

On-site parking at Iola Gardens is limited, especially during larger events. To help things flow smoothly, we offer the following options:

  • Designated on-site parking for key guests, vendors, and accessibility needs

  • Overflow parking available nearby, coordinated with our neighboring properties

  • Shuttle service or carpool plans can be arranged for larger groups

We’ll work with you to create a custom parking plan that fits your event and keeps the arrival experience relaxed and organized.

Please note: We aren't currently open for public visits or drop-ins as the grounds take a season to rest, but please feel free to reach out with any questions.

Want more travel tips?

The Vashon-Maury Island Chamber offers up-to-date ferry info, tips for car-free travel, and guidance on navigating the island like a local.