Took advantage of a clear day to hit this short hike before the Seahawks game. The parking lot was almost full when we arrived but we saw many completing their loop as we started so I doubt that the lot remains full for very long. 

The trail is in excellent condition with only one easily crossed blow down. Lots of families on the trail with singing little ones. Very enjoyable stroll. Only wish the game went better......

From the main parking lot, we followed a short connector trail to the actual trailhead, and hiked the loop counterclockwise (with a short side trip down to the river).

Access. Smooth, paved road all the way to the trailhead.

Conditions. Zero obstacles on the trail.

Crowds. Only half a dozen cars in the main parking lot at 2pm, and a similar number of parties on the trail.

This is such a great hike! Went with my newly 4 year old nephew who had a blast. We saw hair ice for the first time, marveled at the sound of rocks hitting the partially frozen lake (another family was doing this as we approached the bridge—it sounded like a bird call!) We also ate tiny dewdrop icicles from young saplings just trail side, and we took a break with our hot chocolate and snacks at the little log benches 3/4 of the way through the hike (going clockwise on the loop). The trail is in perfect condition, with gentle rolling hills, though mostly flat. You can access the river on a little trail offshoot, and it was low enough for us to climb around on the rocks at edge of the shore.

We liked it so much we went back on New Year’s Day with his parents! The recent rains had caused the river to rise and move faster, so we said hello to the river but did not play near it this time. Instead, we spent more time along the trail, examining the abundant moss and lichens! There also was no ice of any kind this trip.

Social distancing: the parking lot is tiny, with room for fewer than 10 cars (and that’s a generous estimate). We easily found a spot both days. We were out and on the trail for approximately 3 hours each time. On both days we encountered about 4 or 5 families/groups, and on NYD we also encountered a couple solo trail runners. Most people wore masks, and everyone made an effort to stay physically distant and pass one another with care.

This was our first time here, what a sweet little hike. The first parking area was full today and we got the last spot at 11 AM (weather was sunny, clear, and gorgeous). Almost everyone was masked and courteous, thankfully. The views are impressive and varied for such a short hike, making it perfect for families like ours with little ones. A lot of opportunities to stop and smell the roses! There were many trailside benches, which I wasn’t expecting, and it really made me appreciate all the hard work that went into this trail. This would be a great hike in any season. A good reason to go now is this stunning rare beauty - hair ice, a lot of beautiful hair ice along the trail! 

This is a great trail for a quick hike and a nature fix in the winter months.  It is short and no special equipment is needed.  The mossy forest feels like a retreat and there are great views of the river and snow capped mountains.  This is a short hike and the trail was in great condition.  The only negative was the directions.  In the directions, where it says when you reach a fork, stay right.  It is actually stay to the left and 5 miles from that point.