This trail is hard to find if you don't know where to look, but once discovered, it's a true gem. From low brush to deep woods to open beach, with a few historical artifacts along the way, it offers a lot of interest and variety. Most of it is wide and level, although there is one steep drop down a gulley that can be hard on the knees and treacherous in the rain.
From the Key Peninsula Highway head south on Jackson Lake Road. Just after passing the public access to Jackson Lake, look for a pullout on the right where the highway begins to turn toward the left. Park and walk back along the road, and you'll see the trail cutting through the brush on the left (west) side. It's clear and obvious as soon as you're on it.
The trail follows the brush of huckleberry and salal left over from recent logging, but soon enters into second growth forest, and any sign of civilization drifts away. A few benches are available for resting or sitting to contemplate the trees. After a gentle stroll through the woods it comes to the steepest part, dropping down to a seasonal creek below. Roots make handy steps and hand-holds as you make your descent. The trail then follows the creek, with a few blowdowns needing to be navigated, but soon you can see Puget Sound around the corner, and the trail empties onto the open strand. Driftwood, soft sand, and even a totem pole are there to be explored before heading back to your car the way you came.
Comments