Follow a trail less traveled along a roaring waterway

Quick Facts:

Location: Methow Valley

Round Trip: 5.0 miles

Elevation Gain: 450 feet

Contact: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Methow Valley Ranger District
Detailed Information: Day Hiking North Cascades 2^nd edition (Mountaineers Books)

Notes: Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Pass required; watch for rattlesnakes

Green Trails Map: Methow Valley 51SX

Access: From Winthrop, follow SR 20 west for 13.2 miles to the Mazama turnoff just past milepost 180. Then proceed north for 0.4 mile to Mazama and turn left following Lost River Road for 6.7 miles.  Continue now on FR 54 for 2.2 miles and turn left onto Spur 60 and drive 0.6 mile to Rattlesnake Trailhead.

Good to Know: dog-friendly, kid-friendly, trail less taken, wildflowers

Hike along a tumbling and roaring river through a burn zone in a wide glacier-carved valley. In 2003 a large wildfire swept through laying waste to much of the forest that once graced this wide and wild valley. Subsequent windfalls and washouts coupled with an inadequate Forest Service Trail budget allowed this once popular feeder trail to the PCT to become nearly impassable. But thanks to the Washington Trails Association, the trail is slowly being restored. The first 2.5 miles of this 8 mile long trail is in excellent shape. It makes for a wonderful short hike. With a lack of tree cover however, it should be avoided on hot summer days.

                Start in open forest and soon cross Rattlesnake Creek on a bridge. It’s then into the open burn zone. Wildflowers and rabbit brush add some color contrast to the expanse of blackened stumps, silver snags, and charred logs. The trail primarily follows along the roaring river on a bench above the flood plain. Views of the waterway are nearly uninterrupted. After passing a big flat sitting rock, the trail traverses a scree slope at river’s edge. This area is prone to washing out, so use caution working your way around any lost tread. Then continue upriver passing a cottonwood grove and climbing higher above the river. At 2.5 miles reach Trout Creek and its mangled washed out bridge. Crossing this creek is treacherous and the trail beyond is in rough shape—making this a good turnaround spot.

For more details on this hike and many other amazing hikes in the Methow Valley,  pick up a copy of my best selling Day Hiking North Cascades 2^nd edition (Mountaineers Books).

Quick Facts:

Location: Ross Lake NRA, North Cascades Scenic Highway

Land Agency: National Park Service

Roundtrip: 4.5 miles

High Point:  feet

Elevation gain: 1500 feet

Difficulty: moderate

Contact: North Cascades National Park 

Green Trails Map: North Cascades Ross Lake 16SX

Notes: Dogs permitted on leash.

Access: From Marblemount follow the North Cascades Highway (SR 20) east for 21 miles to trailhead located on your right; park on left side of road.

 Good to know: Dog-friendly, kid-friendly, exceptional old-growth

Calling this tiny body of water a lake is definitely an overstatement. Pond, maybe. Pyramid pool  is more like it! Don’t do this hike anticipating a grand body of water at the end of the trail. Do it for the trees! An impressive cathedral of ancient forest lines the way to Pyramid Lake. This hike is definitely more about the journey than the destination—and it is quite a journey through a forest that has stood in place for centuries.

And while the lake isn’t much, this easily accessible trail gets a fair amount of hiker traffic as it makes for a good spring conditioner or a late fall snow-prober. Trail starts right besides Pyramid Creek. Catch its cool breezes—then immediately get to work climbing. Under a thin canopy of lodgepole pine, work your way up a ledge. It’s slow going here with roots, loose rocks, and tread-choking salal. Hang in, it gets better.

Marching up a rib above the crashing creek, periodically peer over your shoulder through the sparse forest-cover for glimpses of Davis Peak and Sourdough Mountain across the Skagit Valley. After about a mile the pine and fir forest transitions to mature hemlocks. Come to a branch of Pyramid Creek and hop across it to a beautiful cedar grove.

Now alongside the babbling waterway continue climbing. Towering ancient cedars and Douglas-fir soon humble your stature. Make one final grunt. Cross the babbling creek once more and arrive at Pyramid Lake shortly afterwards. Not much huh? Actually there is if you look at this body of water through ecological eyes. Rough-skinned newts thrive here. Look for them floating near the surface and hiding in the detritus, And those big ole logs floating in the lake harbor scads of sundew, an omnivorous plant. No need for you or the newts to worry though, they prefer puny insects.

For more information on this hike and many others in and around the North Cascades National Park complex , consult my best selling Day Hiking North Cascades 2nd edition!

For information on other things to do in the area and where to stay and dine-consult Northwest Tripfinder

Wilderness and stark beauty along the Columbia River

Quick Facts:

Location: Hanford Reach National Monument

Round Trip: 7.0 miles

Elevation Gain: 500 feet

Contact: Hanford Reach National Monument, Mid-Columbia River National Wildlife Recreation Complex;
Detailed Information: Day Hiking Eastern Washington (Mountaineers Books)

Notes: watch for rattlesnakes; pack lots of water

Access: From Ellensburg, follow I-90 east to Exit 137 heading south on SR 26 for one mile. Bear right onto SR 243 and after 14 miles turn left onto the 24SW Road. Follow for 13.7 miles to SR 24, turning left and continuing east for 10 miles to turnoff right just past Milepost 63. Pass through a solar-powered gate (which closes at night) following a good gravel road south for 3.9 miles to a four-way junction. Turn right and continue 1.3 miles to trailhead located on right (before boat launch at old ferry crossing) near a locust grove.

Good to Know: historic, exceptional wildflowers, snowfree winter hike

Hike across towering white bluffs and massive sand dunes, and be dazzled by brilliant wildflowers. Here at the Hanford Reach witness the last free flowing non-tidal section of the Columbia River.  In 1943 while in the midst of World War II the US government launched the Manhattan Project forever changing history with the birth of the atomic bomb as well as forever changing the landscape of the lower Columbia River Basin. To facilitate the processing of plutonium, a large remote area was needed with an ample nearby power source. The federal government chose the 428,000-plus acre Hanford Site. Two communities—Hanford and White Bluffs were condemned and the little town of Richland was transformed into a government city of 25,000.

Ironically this massive government project with its large buffer zones ended up preserving large tracts of natural habitat.  In 2000, President Clinton declared 195,000 acres of the buffer zone a national monument, permanently protecting the 51-mile last free flowing non-tidal stretch of the Columbia and some of the last significant undeveloped sections of the Columbia Plateau’s sage steppe ecosystem.  One of the driest parts of the state (annual rainfall averaging 7 inches) the Hanford Reach is a harsh but fragile environment; home to rare plants, endemic species, elk herds, and over 250 species of birds. Walk softly upon it and be prepared for extreme weather especially during the summer. Carry ample water and sunscreen.

            The rudimentary trail starts by a post near a grove of locust trees. Follow it up an open slope that dazzles with flowers in spring. The impressive White Bluffs immediately come into view. So too does the Columbia River. Watch for white pelicans below and swallows along the bluffs. The path can be sketchy—vanishing at times in dunes. Just work your way up and down along the bluff tops staying away from cliff edges.

            Enjoy excellent views of Locke Island below—Rattlesnake Mountain west and Saddle Mountain north. At about 2.0 miles reach impressive dunes that may have you feeling like you’re in the Sahara. Walk across the dunes continuing north. While always shifting, some of the higher dunes form pyramidal “summits” topping out at elevations over 725 feet. From these vantages more than 300 feet above the river you have commanding views of the shoreline below the bluffs. Scan it and the wetland pockets between the dunes for deer, coyotes, and jackrabbits and three species of mice—northern grasshopper, deer, and western harvest. At 3.5 miles the dunes end and travel beyond can be harsh making this the logical turn around spot.

For more details on this hike and many other amazing hikes in Washington state,  pick up a copy of my best selling 100 Classic Hikes Washington (Mountaineers Books).

Quick Facts:

Location: Skykomish River Valley

Land Agency: Washington State Parks

Roundtrip: 8.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet

Green trails Map: Index, WA-No. 142

Access: From Everett follow US 2 for 28 miles east to Gold Bar. Just before Milepost 28 turn left onto 1st Street (signed for Wallace Falls State Park). Proceed for .4 mile to a four way stop. Turn right onto May Creek Road and continue for 1.5 miles to Wallace Falls State Park and trailhead.

Notes: Discover Pass required; dogs must be leashed. Parking limited. Plan a weekday hike and/or arrive early in the morning.

Contact: Wallace Falls State Park

Good to Know: Snow-free Winter Hike, Dog-friendly, kid-friendly

Wallace Falls State Park is one of the state’s and Snohomish County’s most spectacular places—and not surprisingly, popular as well. Here within this 4,735-acre park the Wallace River tumbles over 265 feet in a series of stunning and thundering waterfalls. A well built and well trodden trail takes you along the river to stunning viewpoints of the falls. On a sunny weekend the trail is lined with folks from all walks of life savoring the stupendous beauty of this special place.

If you arrive at the park and the parking lot is overflowing with vehicles prompting you to think that perhaps there might be just a tad too many hikers on the trail—don’t despair. Consider hiking to Wallace Lake instead where only a fraction of the park’s hikers venture off to. A fairly large lake above the falls and away from the crowds, it makes for a wonderful alternative destination to the falls, or a nice destination in its own right.

Wallace Lake was once reached by a long and unappealing logging road, but that all changed thanks to the WTA). You can now access the lake via the Greg Ball Trail; a path envisioned by and honoring one of the greatest trail advocates this state has ever had. Ball was a former board member and director of the WTA. In 1993 he launched the organization’s volunteer trail maintenance program which has since grown into the largest state-based program of its kind. In 2004 at the age of 60, tragically, Greg passed away after battling cancer. He had designed this trail to Wallace Lake and it was finished in his memory by volunteers from WTA and through support from the Spring Trail Trust.

Start your hike by following the crowds on the main trail toward Wallace Falls. Soon come to a junction. Left follows the Old Rail Grade Trail 2.2 miles before terminating at the Greg Ball Trail. Right heads 1.1 miles along the Wallace River before coming to a junction leading 0.2 mile to the Greg Ball Trail. Either way will work but the shorter way will be more crowded.

The Greg Ball Trail begins from the old RR grade. The trail is a pure joy to walk. Follow alongside and above the North Fork of the Wallace River, climbing gently and meandering through maturing second growth. At about 3.0 miles from the trailhead you can catch glimpses of the river cascading down a narrow chasm. About a half mile farther the trail terminates at a DNR Road. Turn right on the road for 0.1 mile to a junction with an old road taking off left. Follow this near level forested way for 0.5 mile to the southern tip of Wallace Lake.

This is a pretty spot in heavy timber with picnic tables and an attractive bridge, but the northern end of the lake at Pebble Beach is much nicer. To reach it, head left following another old woods road. After a half mile arrive at the beach, a gravelly outwash at the base of a small talus slope. Find yourself a nice sun warmed log and enjoy the view across the placid lake to what’s colloquially referred to as Zeke’s Hill and Mount Index peeking in the distance. Savor the serenity here away from the thundering falls and their crowded trails.

For more detailed information on this hike and many more along the US 2 Corridor, Consult my best-selling Day Hiking Central Cascades 2nd edition. Book includes 136 hikes from Sultan to Chelan. Get your copy today!

Bloomin’ good hike in Wenatchee Foothills

Quick Facts:

Location: Wenatchee Foothills

Round Trip: 9.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 1125 feet

Contact: Chelan-Douglas Land Trust
Detailed Information: Day Hiking Central Cascades 2^nd edition (Mountaineers Books)

Notes: Trail is closed from Dec 1 until March 31 to protect wintering mule deer. Dogs must be leashed; trail open to mountain bikes; be aware for ticks and rattlesnakes

Access: In Wenatchee head west on 5^th Street to Number One Canyon Road. Then continue 0.4 mile to trail parking (signed) on right at the junction with Sage Hills Drive. Do not park on Sage Hills Drive. Overflow parking is allowed on 5^th Street.

Good to Know: kid-friendly, dog-friendly, exceptional wildflowers

 Traverse rolling golden hills wedged between the Cascade Mountains and the city of Wenatchee. Come in the spring and be dazzled by brilliant blossoms and the sweet scent of sage.  Start your hike by walking up Sage Hills Drive to the trailhead. The Sage Hills trail system was developed through a wide consortium of people and organizations, including the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust (CDLT), the Chelan County PUD, and private citizens like the Lester family. Adhere to all rules, closures and posted property. Many unofficial trails have been built in this complex over the years and land agencies are reviewing which to keep and upgrade and which to close.

         Start switchbacking through open country of golden grasses and fragrant sagebrush. Walk along the base of towering hills to the west while skirting housing developments on the right. Pass a path that heads east to the Day Drive trailhead (limited parking). Then on an easy grade, the way contours rolling hills, dips into a draw, and begins a long ascent via gentle switchbacks crossing a powerline swath and jeep track several times. After passing some sandstone ledges the trail reaches Three Trail Saddle, a good spot to turnaround for a short hike.

            Here the Balsamroot Trail heads straight dropping into Broadview Canyon. You want to go left continuing on the Sage Hills Trail. Then soon bear right descending into Coyote Canyon. Next climb to Gut Saddle and take in excellent views of Burch Mountain to the north, Badger Mountain to the east, and the Sage Hills and Saddle Rock to the south.

            Continue straight into Rattlesnake Canyon. Cross a spring fed creek above a mini badlands home to copious yellow belled marmots. Then switchback out of the canyon into CDLT’s Horse Lake Reserve coming to a high gap. The trail then gently flows across open slopes coming to the Homestead Trail. Bear right and gently ascend traversing flowering slopes over Rattlesnake Canyon. Pass a side trail left, crest a ridge and slightly descend coming to the northern trailhead at the Horse Lake Reserve parking area at 4.6 miles. Now return unless you’ve arranged for a one-way journey.

For more details on this hike and many others in the area, pick up a copy of my just released Day Hiking Central Cascade 2^nd edition (Mountaineers Books)

Quick Facts:

Location: Whidbey Island

Land Agency: National Park Service and Washington State Parks

Roundtrip: 5.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 260 feet

Contact: Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve 

Suggested Guidebook: Urban Trails Everett

Special note: Dogs permitted on leash.

Access: Take Washington State Ferry from Mulkiteo to Clinton on Whidbey Island. Continue north on SR 525 for 19 miles to junction with SR 20. Bear right onto SR 20 continuing 6.3 miles. Turn left onto Sherman Road. Proceed for .3 mile turning right onto Cemetery Road reaching Prairie Overlook trailhead in 0.3 mile.

Good to know: kid-friendly, dog-friendly, historic, snow-free winter hike, beach hike

Puget Sound sure has changed much since Captain George Vancouver sailed this way back in 1792. And if the good captain were able to make a return trip, he wouldn’t recognize the area—except perhaps for the island he named in honor of his subordinate, Joseph Whidbey. For only on Whidbey, at Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve, could the colonial-era seafarer still catch more than a glimpse of an undeveloped Puget Sound coastline.

And only at Ebey’s Landing could Mr. Vancouver take such an incredible hike that includes towering bluffs, salt-sprayed maritime forests, rolling prairie, and lonely beaches. Named after the first European settler on Whidbey, Ebey’s Landing is comprised of state, national, and private parcels totaling 17,400-acres. This area invites “explorers” of all ages to set sail on its trails and beaches.

For the best of Ebey’s Landing, begin at the Prairie Overlook for a 5.2-mile lollipop loop-hike. Pass a restored 1850s homestead now a visitor center; then continue across emerald lawns towards Admiralty Inlet. You’ll feel as though you’re hiking in Ireland. But, look upward—the snowcapped Olympic Mountains in the background quickly remind you that this is the Pacific Northwest.

Beyond the prairie, turn right at a well-marked junction and begin climbing golden bluffs. Rounding heights 300 feet above the Sound, the views are divine. Gaze out toward Vancouver Island and the San Juan Islands. Watch ferries and ocean vessels ply Admiralty Inlet. In springtime, admire a mosaic of blooming wildflowers swaying at your feet. Look for majestic eagles perched in ghostly snags. Be captivated by the stark beauty of Perego’s Lake—a lagoon formed by a narrow spit—directly below you.

Then descend the bluff and head south on the beach. Bird watch at Perego’s, and scope the surf for seals. Hike the wild beach to the Ebey’s Landing Wayside, and then follow trail back to the prairie to close the loop. This hike should give you the same appreciation that ‘ole Captain George had for this gorgeous area over 200 years ago.

Ebey’s Landing is featured in my Urban Trails Everett book. The guide is packed with year round hikes in Western Snohomish County, Whidbey Island and Camano Island. Get your copy today!

For information on where to stay and on others things to do on Whidbey Island, consult Northwest Tripfinder.

Quick Facts:

Location: Near Index, Skykomish Valley

Land Agency: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Roundtrip: 2.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 850 feet

Access: From Everett follow US 2 east for 37 miles to trailhead located on north side of highway just after entering Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

Green Trails Map: Alpine Lakes Stevens Pass 176S

Recommended Guidebook: Day Hiking Central Cascades 2nd edition

Contact: Skykomish Ranger District: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest

Good to Know: kid-friendly, dog-friendly, snow-free winter hike, restored fire lookout

Notes: Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Pass required

Need a quick leg stretcher on your next trip across Stevens Pass? Wouldn’t mind a couple of views to go with the exercise as well? Or perhaps just a quick getaway not too far from the city? Have you hiked up to the Heybrook Lookout? It’s a short and sweet (with a little vertical kicked in) hike just outside of Index and a great spring destination when the surrounding high country is buried deep in snow. From the lookout’s lofty balcony, scan the scenic Skykomish Valley, relish the rugged beauty of the Wild Sky Wilderness’ Ragged Ridge, and stare straight across the valley at imposing Mount Index.

From the trailhead quickly leave behind busy US 2 and enter a cool, mossy forest. After angling east at an easy grade and crossing some creeks, reverse direction and start steeply climbing via a series of tight switchbacks. The trail meanders upward under an emerald canopy passing by giant cedar stumps, evidence of past logging activity. Approach a series of boulders carpeted with moss. Then swing east once again and crest the ridge. Continue along the ridge on a gentler incline to eventually bust out of the forest onto a ledge just below Heybrook’s fire lookout. The views here are limited, but they’re far better from the top of the 67-foot lookout tower perched on the 1700-foot ridge.

Ascend seven sets of stairs and from the lookout balcony behold a supreme view of the Skykomish Valley spread before you. Gaze east toward Stevens Pass and ominous Baring Mountain. Then look west to the whitewater frothy Forks of the Skykomish River. Finally turn south toward the massive rock fortress known as Mount Index. Snowfields perpetually cling to its precipitous crags. Bridal Veil Falls careens out of a cleft housing Lake Serene.

Hang around awhile and watch the evening sky cast a crimson hue on the impressive and imposing mountain. And don’t forget to give thanks to the Everett Mountaineers for making all of this viewing possible. It was their idea and hard work that restored the 1964 lookout. And check out the Friends of Heybrook Ridge–they were responsible for helping to develop a trail system on a new Snohomish County Park on the ridge. Plans call for eventually connecting Heybrook Lookout with the Heybrook Ridge Trails.

For more information on this hike and many others along the US 2 corridor from Everett to Wenatchee and beyond, pick up a copy of my newly released and expanded Day Hiking Central Cascades 2nd edition (Mountaineers Books).

Quick Facts:

Location: US 2 near Index,

Land Agency: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Roundtrip: 4.4 miles

Elevation gain: 850 feet

Green Trails Maps: Green Trails, Alpine Lakes Stevens Pass 176S

Contact: Skykomish Ranger District: Mount Baker -Snoqualmie National Forest 

Notes: NW Forest Pass or Interagency Pass required

Access: From Everett follow US 2 east for 34 miles to just before Skykomish River Bridge (near Milepost 34). Turn right onto Mount Index Road (FR 6020) proceeding 0.3 mile. Turn right on spur-road signed “Lake Serene Trail 1068,” reaching trailhead in 0.1 mile.

Good to Know:  Exceptional waterfall, dog-friendly, snow-free winter hike

Viewed from US 2, this fanning cataract emanating from Lake Serene below the stark towers of Mount Index does indeed look like a bridal veil. Draped over granite slabs, tiered and tumbling for hundreds of feet, this popular Skykomish Valley landmark is an impressive sight. But to really appreciate this plummeting waterway, you need to lace up your boots and hike up to the veil. Hear it roar. Feel its refreshing mist against your face.

In late summer and autumn, the falls appear as silver slivers. But in the wet winter and spring months, Bridal Veil overflows with runoff. Bursting with energy it thunders down the steep slopes beneath it. Start your hike by following an old road lined with mossy maples and alders. Cross a series of minor tributaries, which after a heavy rainfall display some pretty cascades as well.

Gradually ascending, the trail works its way up a thickly forested slope. In 1.7 miles, come to a signed junction. The trail left continues on, heading to Lake Serene tucked in a deep basin beneath the Index spires. In most years, snow buries the lake basin from late fall to early summer. Avalanches tumble off of Mount Index depositing snow in the basin even during years of light snowfall.

Head right to Bridal Veil Falls. They can be heard in the distance, bellowing down its vertical course. The trail steepens utilizing a series of short switchbacks and stairways. They can be slippery when wet, so take your time and use caution. Cross several creeks and expect wet feet. Pause for a moment to take in views of the Skykomish Valley spread out below.

By now the falls’ roar is deafening. Don rain parka and set out on a drenched boardwalk to embrace the full force and beauty of the falls. Bridal veil? From this proximity it’s more like a bridal shower. Literally! The folks down below on US 2 don’t know what they’re missing!

For more detailed information on this hike and many more along US 2 from Everett to Wenatchee, consult my newly released Day Hiking Central Cascades 2nd edition guidebook.

Quick Facts:

Location: Everett

Land Agency: Snohomish County

Roundtrip: 1.8 miles

Elevation gain: none

Difficulty: Easy

Contact: Friends of Narbeck Wetland Sanctuary

Notes: Dogs must be leashed; open 7 a.m. to dusk

Access: From Everett follow SR 526 west 2.5 miles exiting onto Seaway Boulevard. Proceed for 1.0 mile north. Entrance is on right, across the street from the Fluke Corporation.

Good to know: kid-friendly, interpretive, bird-watching

 The Narbeck Wetland Sanctuary is what you get when you combine public and private interests, over 300 volunteers and six million dollars! Opened to the public in 1999, Narbeck is the product of wetland banking. That is, the creation of new wetlands to mitigate the loss of wetlands to development. In this case, Narbeck was created to offset the environmental loss of wetlands that were filled in to allow for the expansion of nearby Paine Field. This project became the first of its kind in Snohomish County.

With the creation of this high-functioning quality wetland, not only did birds and frogs get a great place to hang-out close to the city of Everett; hikers did too. Explore the Wetlands by following a 1.5 mile Perimeter Trail and a .3 mile boardwalk that winds through the wetland’s interior. Children will especially enjoy the boardwalk. Crushed gravel tread and raised boardwalks require no fancy footwear for enjoying this saturated sanctuary.

The trails are short but they’ll invite long lingering. Take time to read the attractive interpretive signage. Gaze through the alder thickets, cedar groves, and reeds for birds and amphibians. Buffleheads and mallards are abundant. Deer and beavers are occasionally sighted here too. Note the large cedar stumps. It may be hard to imagine that this little wildlife oasis stuck dab in the middle of industrial Everett was once covered in ancient forest.

While the walk through Narbeck is soothing and bird song fills the air, you’ll be hard-pressed to fully enjoy it with all of the industrial noise in the background. Still, if you cover your ears, your eyes may very well have you believing that you are far from the commotion. Try to time your visit early or late in the day when nearby shift workers aren’t using the sanctuary for their lunch break workout. In any case, this nature sanctuary close to the population centers of Snohomish County makes for a great place to visit on a winter’s afternoon.

For more information on this hike and many more in western Snohomish County, pick up a copy of my Urban Trails Everett book and get exploring!

The crown jewel of Lake Washington parks

Quick Facts:

Location: Lake Washington

Round Trip: 1.5 miles of trails

Elevation Gain: minimal

Contact: City of Renton Parks Commission

Detailed Information: Urban Trails Seattle (Mountaineers Books)

Notes:  Dogs prohibited. Park open 8:00 am to dusk

Access: Take Exit 5 on I-405. Then head west on N Southport Drive for 0.3 mile and turn right onto Lake Washington Boulevard North. Continue for 0.2 mile to park and trailhead.

Good to Know: kid-friendly, snow free winter hikes, historic, beach access

Renton’s Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park contains one of the prettiest lakeshore walks on Lake Washington. Mosey along a paved path through impeccably landscaped grounds passing an array of impressive trees both native and exotic. And saunter past historic remnants of a time when the lake boomed with logs.  

       The park is small, but spread out along a mile of lakeshore. And there is so much to see here.Start by passing the play area and heading over to tiny Bird Island. Then head past the swimming area and boat launch. Pass pavilions and concessions and come to the start of the shore trail. This entire area once staged docks where coal was dumped into barges and timber was dumped into a log boom. In the 1960s civic leaders envisioned the area beyond its industrial past with a recreational future. The park was named in honor of longtime Renton Parks Director Gene Coulon.

            Notice quite an array of trees gracing the walkway. There are sequoias, bald cypresses, tulip poplars, live oaks and so many other intriguing trees from across the country and beyond here. Download the park’s botanical brochure to take with you for tree identification.

            Walk across a bridge (new bridge should be in place by the end of March 2023) at the Trestle Marsh, a natural area that was once the log dump. Walk too along the Shorewalk, a trestle across a small cove. Look for a myriad of bird life and some small mammals as well. And look out across the lake to the Olympic Mountains and back over your shoulder to Mount Rainier. Sunsets are simply sublime here. On your return extend your walk by sauntering out on the 900-foot floating pier. It’s a squared pier giving you an opportunity to walk on water. Kids will love it. You will too.

For more details on this hike and many others in the area, pick up a copy of my best selling Urban Trails Seattle (Mountaineers Books).

Hike along rapids at the mouth of the Green River gorge

Quick Facts:

Location: Kanaskat-Palmer State Park

Land Agency: Washington State Parks

Round Trip: 2.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 175 feet

Contact: Kanaskat-Palmer State Park

Detailed Information: Urban Trails Tacoma (Mountaineers Books)

Notes: Discover Pass required. Dogs permitted on leash. Green River contains strong currents—exercise caution along river’s edge.

Access: From Renton drive SR 169 south for 14.0 miles turning left onto SE Kent-Kangley Road. Then continue east for 3.4 miles and bear right onto Retreat Kanaskat Road SE. Continue for 3.1 miles and turn right onto Cumberland Kanaskat Road SE. Then drive for 1.8 miles and turn right into Kanasket Palmer State Park and continue to parking at Day Use and Picnic Area.

Good to Know: kid-friendly, snow free winter hikes, dog-friendly, historic, camping and yurts available in park year round.

Kanaskat-Palmer State Park is named for two tiny communities on the Northern Pacific Railway in the heart of a once thriving coal mining district. The park is rife with history, but it’s the Green River at the mouth of a dramatic gorge that is the park’s main feature.

River kayakers and rafters have been coming to this spot long before it became a state park in 1983. It was some of these river rats who first recognized the ecological importance, natural beauty, and historical significance of the Green River Gorge calling for its preservation. In the 1970s Washington State Parks began acquiring lands along the 12 mile stretch of the Green River Gorge for protection and recreation. Today a near contiguous stretch of protected land embraces the gorge from its mouth to its outlet.

Kanaskat-Palmer consists of 320 acres at the gorge’s mouth. Here the river progresses from class II to Class IV rapids offering some of the most challenging river running on the Green. While the park is well known for its river running and family camping, hikers will be pleased with its River Trail. This lightly traveled path forms a pleasant kid-friendly loop around the park. Aside from offering excellent views of the river, this well-maintained trail leads to some quiet spots along the river and traverses a few groves of big old trees along the way.

Starting from the Day Use Area, locate the trailhead near the Upper take-out and put-in site. Then begin hiking on a wide trail gently climbing to a junction. The spur to the right leads to the park’s campground. Bear left along a bluff high above the river. While much of the surrounding forest has been logged in the past, many mature trees can still be found along the way. The forest floor is carpeted in ferns. In spring, wildflowers—particularly trilliums and bleeding hearts (dicentra) add dabs of white and purple to the emerald shroud.

The trail soon switchbacks down off of the bluff to traverse a grove of big cottonwoods, hemlocks, spruces and cedars at river level. Enjoy excellent views of the river here and watch for kayakers in the rapids. Look too for mergansers and dippers in the frothy waters. The trail hugs the river bank before coming to a junction. Here a spur leads right to the group campground, and one leads left leads to a deep pool surrounded by a sandy shore.

The River Trail continues straight through a lush alder flat before reaching a grove of big cedars. The way then bends right passing through a grove of Sitka spruce, a tree rare this far inland from the coast. The way then follows an old road bed up a bluff to the park road near the ranger station. Turn right here and walk the road a short distance to pick up trail again.

The trail now traverses quiet forest away from the river before reaching a bluff top above the waterway. The way then descends reaching the park road once again. Turn left here and walk along the short road leading to the Lower take-out and put in site. Then pick up the River Trail once again and come to the Lower take-out spot located at a shaded cove at the mouth of the gorge.

Here the river cuts through 300-foot tall bluffs and overhanging ledges of shale and sandstone. It’s a very difficult place to explore. You can catch glimpses of the deep gorge from various bridges and overlooks along the greenbelt protecting it. The trail heads upriver here passing riverside ledges and boulders and roaring rapids. The river is lined with deciduous trees and hemlocks giving this area a Southern Appalachian feel.

Continue upriver passing excellent viewing spots before reaching the park picnic area. Then follow a paved path back to your start. But before heading home, walk the wide path to the left a short distance to the Upper take-out and put-in site for an excellent river view at a rocky bend. 

For more details on this hike and many others in the area, pick up a copy of my best selling Urban Trails Tacoma (Mountaineers Books)

Savor Salish Sea views from ledges high on Lummi Mountain

Quick Facts:

Location: Lummi Island

Round Trip: 3.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,030 feet

Contact: Lummi Island Heritage Trust

Detailed Information: Day Hiking San Juans and Gulf Islands (Mountaineers Books)

Map: online

Notes: dogs prohibited; all visitors must sign register; day light hours only, group size limited to six.

Access: From Lummi Island Ferry Landing on island head left on South Nugent Road for 0.6 mile. Then turn left onto Seacrest Drive and reach preserve and trailhead in 1.7 miles.

Good to Know: kid-friendly, snow free winter hikes, trail less traveled, bird watching

At more than 1,600 feet, Lummi Peak is one of the highest summits in the San Juan Islands. Visible from throughout Salish Sea, much of this impressive peak is off limits to visitors due to private land ownership. But thanks to the Lummi Island Heritage Trust’s Baker Preserve, hikers can explore a part of this prominent landmark.

            The 129-acre Baker Preserve abuts the 355-acre Baker Ranch to the north and the 700-acre Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Lummi Unit to the south forming a large protected swath on Lummi Peak. The Ranch is currently closed to the public, but the WDFW unit is not and can be accessed via this hike.

      The trail starts off steeply paralleling a small creek cradling ravine. Through a uniform forest of maturing second growth, pass big stumps of what once grew here. The grade eventually eases. After passing a small swampy pool begin to catch window views of the islands through the trees. At 1.8 miles just after leaving the preserve and entering WDFW land turn right at a signed junction to a ledge top viewpoint complete with interpretive signs and wooden railings. The latter is in place not only to protect you from wandering off the ledge, but also to protect rare flowers from being trampled.

            Enjoy good views of Sinclair, Cypress, Orcas, Clark, Matia, Sucia, Patos and Saturna islands. Frosty Canadian north shore summits can also be seen. Check snags for eagles and look for peregrine falcons—they nest on Lummi Peak’s precipitous cliffs. If intrigued, you can continue on an old road walking south another mile in WDFW land through attractive forest and by wetlands close to cliff tops.

For detailed descriptions (including maps) for this hike as well as others on Lummi Island, pick up a copy of my Day Hiking the San Juans and Gulf Islands (Mountaineers Books).  In all, you’ll find 136 hikes on 23 islands!

Wander a quiet ravine above Hood Canal

Quick Facts:

Location: Twanoh State Park, Hood Canal

Land Agency: Washington State Parks

Round Trip: 2.3 miles

Elevation Gain: 400 feet

Contact: Twanoh State Park

Detailed Information: Urban Trails Kitsap Peninsula (Mountaineers Books)

Notes: Discover Pass required. Dogs permitted on leash.

Access: From Bremerton head west on SR 3 to Belfair. Continue west on SR 106 for 7.7 miles to Twanoh State Park. Turn left into campground entrance and immediately come to the day-use parking and trailhead before camp information station.

Good to Know: kid-friendly, snow free winter hikes, dog-friendly, historic, beach access

Twanoh State Park is known for its large beach on Hood Canal boasting some of the warmest saltwater in Washington. Most visitors who take to this park which was developed by the Depression Era Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) head straight for the beach or the campground. That leaves the 182-acre park’s hiking trails pretty quiet.

Locate the trailhead south of the day-use parking area and start hiking on a wide trail through a cluster of rhododendrons. The way parallels gurgling Twanoh Creek which forms a small delta on the park’s beach. Soon come to a junction. Here a side trail crosses the creek on an attractive bridge and reaches the campground—an alternative start if you’re camping in the park.

            The main trail continues straight through a tunnel of rhododendrons and a grove of big cedars. It then begins working its way up a small ravine cradling the small creek. While this ravine was logged in the past, the second growth forest here is now quite mature.

At .3 mile come to a junction for the loop. While you can go either way, consider heading left for a clockwise loop for a more gradual ascent and transition out of the ravine. As you ascend out of the depression, the salal and evergreen huckleberries thin out. It’s much drier on the ridge above the ravine. After two switchbacks, the trail reaches the head of the ravine. It then heads right following an old woods road.

The walking is now easy going. Slowly descend to a group campsite. Then come to another junction. The old road continues straight leading back to the Day Use Parking Area and can be used as an alternative return.  The loop continues right on a switchback descent back into the ravine. Take it passing by a few big old Douglas firs and clusters of leathery-leaved rhododendrons. Reach the loop junction and head left back to the trailhead. Consider exploring the beach afterward.

For more details on this hike and many others in the area, pick up a copy of my best selling Urban Trails Kitsap (Mountaineers Books).

Quick Facts:

Location: Sauvie Island (Portland, Oregon)

Land Agency: Willamette River Greenway, Wapato Access (Oregon State Parks)

Roundtrip: 2.4 miles

Elevation Gain: 50 feet

Notes: Dogs must be leashed.

Access: From downtown Portland, follow US 30 (NW St Helens Road) west for just shy of 11 miles turning right onto the Suavie Island Bridge. Then follow Sauvie Island Road for 2.7 miles to trailhead located on your left.

Contact: Oregon State Parks

Good to know: kid-friendly, dog-friendly, snow-free winter hike, bird watching, spring wildflowers, trail less taken

Virginia Lake is the centerpiece of a little known but lovely state park known as the Wapato Access Greenway on rural Sauvie Island. Cooperatively maintained by the Audubon Society of Portland, the greenway has been deemed an IBA—Important Birding Area. Here, you’ll find eight colorful posts displaying native bird species along the way. Be sure to take the brochure available at the trailhead along so that you can stop at each post and learn about the birds in this wetland environment.

Long before French-Canadian Laurent Sauvé began managing dairy farms for the Hudson’s Bay Company, the island now named after him was known as Wapato. An arrow-leaved aquatic plant; tubers from the Wapato were an important staple to First Peoples in the region. Despite much of the island’s land being converted to agriculture, wapato can still be found here. Look for it along shallow Virginia Lake.

Take the entrance trail 0.2 mile to access the Wapato Loop Trail at a picnic pavilion. En route pass the first of the eight IBA posts, this one denoting a Bullock’s oriole. Turn left and immediately come to a junction. Here a spur trail leads right to a wooden viewing platform above Virginia Lake. More of a marsh, the lake dries up by late summer, but birding remains good year round.

Continue along the loop and at .6 mile come to another junction. Here a spur leads left to Hadley’s Landing Dock on the Multnomah Channel. The loop continues along the channel under a canopy of cottonwoods and ash. While the area is peaceful, traffic can be heard buzzing by on US 30 across the channel.

Travel through a savannah-like setting next, crossing a small boardwalk at the northern tip of the Virginia Lake complex. The way then rolls a little, skirting a farm and passing by a couple of big oaks. At 2.2 miles return to the picnic pavilion closing the loop. Turn left to return to your vehicle.

For more information on this hike and others within the Portland-Vancouver region check out my Day Hiking Columbia River Gorge book (Mountaineers Books).

For other things to see and do in the Portland area, consult Northwest TripFinder

Quick Facts:

Location: Arlington

Land Agency: Snohomish County Parks and Recreation

Contact: Snohomish Parks and Recreation Department

Roundtrip: 2.0 miles

Elevation Gain: minimal

Notes: Dogs prohibited

Access: From Exit 208 on I-5 (Arlington) head east on SR 530 for 2.3 miles. Then turn right onto 59th Ave SE. Continue for 0.2 mile and turn right and proceed to trailhead.

Lying just outside the bustling commercial center of Smokey Point is a quiet little wildlife reserve that surprisingly few folks know about. Occupying 157 acres of prime Stillaguamish River Floodplain, find the Portage Creek Wildlife Area with its kid-friendly trails. Once used for peat and dairy farming, Portage Creek became a park in 1995 after much of it had been restored to wetlands favoring wildlife. The wildlife area came to fruition thanks to the vision of Gene Ammon, the former owner and peat miner who began restoring this property in 1978 and subsequently donated it to the county.

Head west across open meadow. The trail may be overgrown as maintenance is not always frequent at this park. The area is also prone to flooding and you may have difficulty crossing the little waterway traversing it. If conditions permit wander the wide expanse, all part of the floodplain of the Stillaguamish River. Admire the Cascade foothills off in the distance. Closer, look for beaver and otter sign. Watch for herons probing wetland pools and for hawks zeroing in on scurrying rodents. The property is quite pleasant if not a tad bit noisy being so close to a busy commercial center. Highway sounds buzz in the distance, and the Arlington Airport lies just to the south with its low flying aircraft approaching and departing adding more background noise. But in spring, hopefully most of the racket that’ll be vying for your attention will be from the nesting birds and amorous frogs of the wildlife area.

A loop can be made along the meadow periphery. Branching off if it a trail continues south to an old barn near a couple of small ponds that usually harbor a fair amount of waterfowl. Scope them for ducks. Then follow a short loop around a marsh of golden grasses, swaying cattails, and songbird hiding reeds. An old road–once the property’s main entrance leads south to Cemetery Road. This property has a lot of potential and it would be nice if Snohomish County Parks invested in its infrastructure and converted this park into an environmental learning center.

For more detailed information on nearby hikes in western Snohomish County, pick up a copy of my Urban Trails Everett. This guidebook also contains chapters on Whidbey and Camano islands. Get your copy today!

Watch for eagles along an old remote rail line

Quick Facts:

Location: Skagit Valley

Land Agency: Skagit County Parks

Round Trip: 3.5 miles

Elevation Gain: minimal

Contact: Howard Miller Steelhead Park

Detailed Information: Day Hiking North Cascades Second edition (Mountaineers Books)

Notes: Dogs permitted on leash.

Access: From Burlington (exit 230 on I-5), travel 38 miles east on State Route 20 to the town of Rockport. Then turn right onto Alfred Street (just before junction with SR 20) and continue 0.2 mile. Then turn left onto Railroad Ave and immediately bear right entering the Howard Miller Steelhead Park and proceed to day use parking area.

Good to Know: kid-friendly, snow free winter hikes, dog-friendly, historic, car camping nearby

Follow an historic rail line along the Skagit River at its confluence with the Sauk River observing bald eagles. Find the trailhead near the park’s Maintenance Area and start hiking the Skagit-Sauk Reach Trail, a former rail line. Rockport was the eastern terminus of a Great Northern Railroad line from Burlington that serviced outposts, timber camps and mines in the upper Skagit.

            Walk on the near level trail skirting the campground field and entering a mature hardwood forest. At 0.7 mile come to a junction with the Wetland Wildlife Trail. Continue straight passing wetlands, big mossy maples, towering cottonwoods and impressive cedars. The trail follows alongside the base of a steep bluff harboring old-growth forest within Rockport State Park.

            Cross a creek and then soon afterward emerge on an open bluff on the Skagit River. Enjoy sweeping views of across gravel bars and islands here at the Skagit’s confluence with the Sauk River. This is an excellent spot for eagle watching. The trail continues down river along the bluff passing more good view spots. At 1.6 miles come to an area prone to slumping and washouts. This is the turning around spot. Beyond this point the trail leaves the river passes through the old Sauk City site and enters private land.

            Now turn around and head back to the trail junction. Then follow the Wetland Wildlife Trail which is actually a series of trails across a floodplain of meadows. Cross a slough and stick to the trail closest to the river. There are a few short spurs leading to the river and good view points. Enjoy good views too of Sauk Mountain rising above the flats. Continue walking east passing a couple of interpretive signs eventually reaching the arched trailhead at a campground loop. From here walk through the campground back to your vehicle.

For detailed descriptions (including maps) for this hike as well as many others in the Skagit Valley, pick up a copy of my best selling Day Hiking the North Cascades 2^nd edition (Mountaineers Books).  You’ll find 136 hikes in all covering Skagit, Whatcom, and Okanogan counties as well as the Mountain Loop Highway!

Hike a quiet forested bluff above Lake Sammamish

Quick Facts:

Location: Bellevue, WA

Land Agency contact: city of Bellevue Parks and Recreation

Round Trip: 2.5 miles of trails

Elevation Gain: up to 500 feet

Detailed Information: Urban Trails Eastside (Mountaineers Books)

Map: online

Notes: dogs permitted on leash

Access: From I-90 exit 11B in Bellevue follow 148^th Ave SE north for 1 mile. Then turn right onto SE 16^th Street (which becomes SE Phantom Way) and proceed for 1.1 miles. Turn left onto 164^th SE and then immediately turn left into Lake Hills Community Park. Park here and walk Lake to Lake Trail .3 mile east to Weowna Park

Good to Know: kid-friendly, dog-friendly, snow free winter hikes, interpretive,

Occupying a bluff above Lake Sammamish on the eastern end of Bellevue, the 90-acre Weowna Park is a key parcel in the city’s Lake to Lake Greenbelt. It’s also the eastern terminus of the 10 mile cross-Bellevue Lake-to-Lake Trail. While there is very limited parking (3 hour time limit) at two small trailheads at the eastern end of the park on W Lake Sammamish Parkway SE and some street parking available on SE 16^th Street; it’s best to park at the Lake Hills Community Park. Then walk east on the paved Lake to Lake Trail which parallels SE 14^th Street and 168^th Ave SE. In a third of a mile you’ll reach a trailhead in Weowna Park.

            You can do a short loop, a long loop, a short out-and back, a long out-and-back or combine them all and get a good hike and workout in this park. If you stay on the loops along the ridge top you won’t lose or gain too much elevation. But if you decide to do any three of the trails leading to the W Lake Sammamish Parkway—you’ll get a good workout of 200-300 feet of climbing on each of the ascents.

            The forest is old here with many of the firs taking on old-growth characteristics. Lots of maples too adding golden drapes come October. The upper loop is about 0.8 mile and is very pleasant walking encompassing part of the Lake to Lake paved trail. This trail crosses an old drainage ditch which was built by an early settler in the 1890s to reverse Phantom Lake’s outlet flow south to Lake Sammamish instead of flowing north to Larsen lake and then to Lake Washington. This was done to drain the wetlands between the two lakes and open it to cultivation. In the 1980s the city of Bellevue restored the flow north of Phantom Lake to its original course. The lake however still drains south through the ditch and is now referred to as Phantom Creek. Walk over the small bridge and notice the drop to the left. Here the creek plummets over a ledge into a narrow and deep ravine to a small but showy cascade.

For detailed descriptions (including maps) for this hike as well as many others in Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Issaquah and Mercer Island, pick up a copy of my Urban Trails Eastside (Mountaineers Books).

Exceptional peat bog in heart of Puget Sound urban sprawl

Quick Facts:

Location: Federal Way, WA

Land Agency contact: city of Federal Way Parks and Recreation

Round Trip: 1.4 miles of trails

Elevation Gain: 225 feet

Detailed Information: Urban Trails Tacoma (Mountaineers Books)

Notes: Dogs prohibited. Park open dusk to dawn

Access: From I-5 Exit 142B in Federal Way drive west on S 348^th Street for 0.9 mile to park and trailhead located on your left. Overflow parking can be found at the South Federal Way Park and Ride located just to the east of the park on S 348^th Street

Good to Know: kid-friendly, snow free winter hikes, interpretive, ADA accessible

Much has changed in the Hylebos Creek drainage since Belgian-born priest, Father Peter Francis Hylebos came to Washington Territory in 1880. Hylebos helped build churches, hospitals and schools in the region. And while he was a big promoter for developing the region, he would probably be astounded today to see a booming city of 100,000 residents sprout around these wetlands. But thanks to Ilene and Francis Marckx, a significant portion of the sensitive wetlands here have been protected

Back in 1955, long before there was a city of Federal Way the Marckxs bought a large parcel of land that contained these wetlands. They soon realized the ecological value of them and grew concerned over the increasing development around them. They formed the Friends of Hylebos and began looking for ways to preserve this land. In 1981 they donated 24.5 acres to the state to be used a as state park. Since then, various agencies and conservation groups have helped bring the preserve to 120 acres. Today it’s owned and managed by Federal Way and is the pride of the city.

From the small parking lot check out two historic structures before heading down the trail. Then follow a wide gravel path winding through a small field and old orchard to a junction.

The trail to the right leads to a picnic area then continues along the west shore of the small body of water known as Marlake before ending at private property.

The trail to the left is the main attraction, follow it to the start of nearly one mile of boardwalk. Soon the trail comes to a junction—here a loop can be made and it matters not which direction you go. Branching off of the loop is a short spur boardwalk traveling over Hylebos Creek and ending at an observation platform at a body of water known as Brooklake.

The boardwalk loop is one of the most enjoyable and interesting hikes in the South Sound. Notice the large and abundant Sitka spruce growing in these wetlands—trees more commonly associated with the coast. And do check out the Deep Sink a deep water filled hole in the peat. In some places within this bog the peat is more than 30 feet deep.

For detailed descriptions (including maps) for this hike as well as many others in Federal Way and surrounding communities, pick up a copy of my Urban Trails Tacoma (Mountaineers Books).

Quick Facts:

Location: Snoqualmie Valley south of Monroe

Land Agency: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)

Roundtrip: 2.2 miles

Elevation Gain: None

Notes: Discover Pass required; Crescent Lake is an active hunting area, so be aware of hunting seasons.

Access: From Everett follow US 2 east to Monroe. Turn right onto SR 203 and follow for 3.8 miles turning right onto 203rd Street SE. After 0.2 mile come to a junction and turn right onto Tualco Road. In another 0.2 mile turn left onto Tualco Loop Road and reach trailhead after 0.1 mile.

Contact: WDFW North Puget Sound Region

Good to Know: Dog-friendly, bird-watching, snow-free winter hike, trails can be muddy and brushy

Ever wonder where the Snohomish River begins? It starts right where the Skykomish and Snoqualmie rivers converge—about three miles south of downtown Monroe. Much of the surrounding land at the confluence of these two rivers is lush and saturated floodplain supporting mature riparian forest and productive farmland. Crescent Lake sits right between the rivers near their confluence. A 10-acre oxbow lake that was once part of the Snoqualmie River, it is now the centerpiece of a 360-acre wildlife area.

Managed primarily for pheasant and waterfowl hunting, hikers and birdwatchers will delight in visiting here as well. Crescent Lake is one of the best spots in Snohomish County for observing wintering tundra and trumpeter swans. From November to April, a large gathering of these beautiful birds can often be seen feeding in the refuge’s fields.

From the trailhead walk an old service road 0.1 mile to a bridge. Cross over a large marshy area and arrive at a field. About a third of the refuge is farmed through sharecropping agreements. The grains left over in winter after the harvest provide feed for the wintering avian residents.

There are no formal trails on the property, but there are several miles of (usually) mowed pathways around the farm lands and through the forest. An excellent exploration can be had by heading right at the bridge crossing to another farmed area. Then continue into a grove of beautiful, mature, and gigantic maples and cottonwoods. Continue for about 0.7 mile and you’ll come to Crescent Lake. Walk along the lake and through forest for about another 0.2 mile to the marshy outlet of the lake. You’ll want to turn around here and either return on paths left along Riley Creek or paths right to more fields abutting Crescent Lake.

The creek side paths tend to get pretty wet and muddy during the winter and spring months, so you may want to stick to the field periphery. And you’ll get some good views of Lord Hill and Mount Pilchuck from the fields. An out and back to Crescent Lake’s end with a return around the field makes for a nice 2.2 mile hike. It’s short, but with lots of bird watching opportunities, plan on spending a few hours.

For detailed information on lots of nearby snow-free hikes in Western Snohomish County, pick up a copy of my Urban Trails Everett guidebook. Book also includes chapters on Camano and Whidbey islands.

Fidalgo Island highpoint grants sweeping views

Quick Facts:

Location: Fidalgo Island

Land Agency: Anacortes Community Forest Lands (ACFL)

Round Trip: 5.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 910 feet

Contact: Anacortes Parks and Recreation

Detailed Information: Day Hiking San Juans and Gulf Islands (Mountaineers Books)

Map: online

Notes: Dogs permitted on leash. Some trails open to bicycles, horses

Access: From Exit 230 on I-5 in Burlington, head west on SR 20 for 13.5 miles and turn right onto Campbell Lake Road. Follow for 1.5 miles bearing right onto Heart Lake Road. Then continue 1.5 mile and turn right at a sign indicating, “Mt Erie Viewpoint.” Proceed a couple of hundred feet to trailhead.

Good to Know: kid-friendly, snow free winter hikes, dog-friendly, old-growth,

Yes, you can drive to the summit of Mount Erie—but a hike is much more rewarding. On sunny weekends throngs of visitors crowd summit viewing posts making this mountain far from a quiet retreat. Try for a weekday. And if you’re lucky, in the winter occasional icing closes the road guaranteeing you solitude at the summit.

            Begin on Trail no. 215 soon coming to a junction. Then head left on Trail no. 320 traversing a beautiful grove of old growth cedar above Heart Lake. After crossing a creek, come to Trail no. 21 near a monster Douglas-fir. Turn right and follow this old fire road on a steady ascent.  Bear right onto Trail no. 230 and hike through a low gap staying left at the next junction. Enjoy easy walking descending into a ravine above a bubbling creek reaching another junction.

            Turn right onto Trail no. 207 and switchback upward reaching a junction. Here Trail no. 26 heads right  to the Mount Eire Road offering a much shorter and easier approach to this hike. Continue left through a stile onto hiker-only Trail no. 216 and start winding your way up Fidalgo Island’s highest summit. You’ll pass several confusing unmarked trails within the first half mile—stay left at all of these junctions.

            At just over two miles the trail brushes up along the road before making its final pitch over ledge and through thick forest. Bear left at a junction just below the summit reaching the road at the summit at 2.5 miles. Then turn left and walk a short distance on the road to several developed viewpoints. The one east overlooking March Point and Fidalgo Bay is growing in. Head to the busy overlook south near the communications towers and savor the scenery. The view is excellent over Whidbey Island out to Glacier Peak, Three Fingers and Mount Rainier. Great view too of Skagit Bay with Kikit, Skagit, and Hope islands; and of Campbell Lake directly below the mountain’s north face. The lake’s little island happens to be the largest island on lake on an island in Washington state.

            Peregrine falcons nest in the cliffs below. Rock climbers can often be seen clambering up them. Big birds thundering from the Whidbey Island Naval Air Station can often be observed from here too.

For detailed descriptions (including maps) for this hike as well as many others on Fidalgo Island, pick up a copy of my Day Hiking the San Juans and Gulf Islands (Mountaineers Books).  You’ll find 136 hikes in all on 23 islands!