This was a really nice hike, but very overgrown as some others have noted. I would not bring dogs on the trail, there was some type of stinging nettle all along almost the entire trail that caught in our clothes. Not painful, just a bit annoying.

Also the bridge is out so we stopped there and had lunch which was peaceful. No beaver sightings. :(

After the trail, we checked out Darrington for a beer and a snack before heading back to Seattle. The brewery there is great, the nachos were huge! Would recommend.

A lovely little river ramble just ten minutes from Darrington. Trailhead is easy to find, just off of the road. There were only about five other cars in the spacious parking lot when we arrived. One privy available. 

This flat trail meanders through a lush forest along the Sauk River - very easy going hike. As mentioned in previous posts, the bridge is out at the beaver pond but it is still well worth the trek. 

No beaver sightings today, but the pond was alive with swarms of tadpoles. We also encountered a frog on the trail (watch your step!) and a garter snake along the river.

One downside to this trail is that it is getting quite overgrown. You will be brushing up against the foliage for the majority of the hike. A previous post mentioned stinging nettle along the trail, and per the stinging sensation on my right leg and left kneecap, I can confirm that there is some type of prickly/stinging plant along the trail. Pants are highly recommended, and if you have small children make sure that they are either covered or have the ability to carry them. 

Overall, a great day at Beaver Lake!

Very wet and buggy at times, and Bare Ridge is little more than a goat path or stream/creek trail in places. The lakes themselves have an overpower "flavor" that permeates filtered water and one's nostrils; you'll be able to "taste" it for a few days.

13.1mi 1120m ascent, max 150m/km.

Beautiful day for a hike. If you go, wear pants and have your little ones wear long sleeves--the foliage is hanging over the trail for much of it, and much of the foliage is prickly. And thanks to those who leashed their pets--much appreciated. 

My group and I arrived to the trail head around 11:30am and at that time there was only one other car in the parking lot. The trail is extremely well maintained and easy to follow! There was a bit of mud in some spots, which was to be expected since it was raining, but no major obstacles on the trail itself. 

Overall this was a great gentle hike for people of all ages and abilities. It is mildly unfortunate that the bridge is out, but that doesn't detract from the rest of the experience.