I went for an exploratory walk this Sunday morning between rain fronts. I have been wanting to check out the first part of this trail for several years but I had heard the homeless situation was bad. I thought I would go until I hit the first tent then turn back. Fortunately, I was able to go a couple of miles, through some beautiful area, before hitting the first tent. I also did a little side trip to see the Gnome Trail. A fun project being done by locals in the area.
The start of the trail that runs 20 miles
Shelter holds a map of the trail and an outhouse
The trail stretches across Vancouver WA
Start of the trail and wetland it follows
Paved trail through green woodland
Venturing off onto an unpaved side trail
This trail passes through restored native plants
The struggle to bring back native plants with our droughts
Trail passes through large open fields
This section passes through residential area
The Poetry Box, I did not look inside
Bridge over Burnt Bridge Creek
Much of the area is covered in black berry bushes, need restoration
Trail before heading under the freeway
Nice patch of Shasta Daisies
First tunnel under the freeway
First homeless tent and my turn around spot
Heading back to my car
Another bridge over Burnt Bridge Creek
Back in the open fields
The barn from when this was in the country
Walking dog under powerlines
Benches to rest on along the trail
Back in the trees
But time for a little side adventure
Open area under tree used by mt. bikers
Some mushrooms in the forest
I first thought all of Gnome displays had been vandalized
But as I headed on on I got into the main Gnome habitat
I started being watched as I pressed on
I found the Gnomes were hiding everywhere
Observing Gnomes at play
A mixed display
It gets delightful to see what has been brought to display
The last little guy before the trail ended
Back to the wetland area
Back to the lake I started at
Only street parking available