This is a great local trail system that we've been to several times with the kids to hike the shorter trails or just go to the clearing for a picnic. We have a lot of flexibility in our schedule, so we are trying to time our trips at time we expect lower usage. We arrived at the parking area around noon (weekday), and we were worried it would be crowded when we saw people parked alongside the road, but the lot was only about half full. We passed a handful of people (and two goats) on the trails but they were in small groups or solo, and spread out.
The kids had their bikes, so we headed up Mainline Trail as its wider and relatively even. I split off and ran the Cascara Trail, which is completely filled with new fern growth. There is a muddy section that has a segue around it. Everything is very green right now, with several types of flowers blooming and salmon berries starting to ripen (although not ready yet, imo). Met back up with kids and husband, and we followed Mainline to #24, where we took Two Trees Trail to the backside of the park. Two Trees is rockier and rootier, and more narrow. It was a challenge for my 5 year old and we spent some time walking bikes. Its very pretty and quiet back here. I split off again and took the Rogue Fern Trail to Mainline, while they finished Two Trees. I ran up Mainline to meet them, and we turned and followed it all the way back to the parking lot. Kids got in about 3 miles on bikes.
Trails are clear, the ones we used were mostly dry, and I only noticed mosquitoes when we stopped for a break. We met a group of bicyclists who warned us of a bold bobcat on the trail (we have a chihuahua and small kid too), but we didn't see it. There were a few more cars in the parking lots but still quiet when we finished at 2:30 pm. I would expect this trail gets busy "after work" hours, and I know it does on the weekends. There is a porta potty at the trail head, consider bringing some wipes for the door handles, etc (but take them home with you, there is no trash).
Miss the mountains but feel fortunate to have access to our wonderful local trails. Its clear some brush trimming has gone on recently and we really appreciate the groups putting their time in here.
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