Spencer Island — Friday, Nov. 7, 2025

Walked the Langus loop, followed by the Spencer Island loop.

I wasn't expecting much, and I wasn't disappointed. Even though I live in the area, this was my first time here. I always check out the reports, and it just seemed kinda "meh". Maybe if you're a birder it might be interesting, but with the constant roar of the freeway coupled with the stench of the sewage ponds, a swampy walk through the slough just didn't sound appealing. 

Ok, it wasn't all that bad. It's actually a handy little slice of nature - albeit surrounded by urban hustle and bustle. But what really brought me here was that I wanted to check out the "impassable" loop on Spencer Island. Many of the previous reports have mentioned how overgrown it is, but never had any photos. Since I enjoy a little trailwork, I thought I'd go see for myself. Well, I'm happy to report that someone beat me to it!

Sure, it's just a safari style hack job through the bushes, but the whole loop has been brushed! Just don't expect a 'trail' - it's a bootpath at best, but my admiration goes to whoever tackled that wall of stickerbushes! There are places where the trail is just a narrow corridor winding amid towering walls of brambles.

Which brings up a point - there are no views to speak of on this section. The bushes are too high, and when you do spot any water, it's from afar. It's great if you like loops, but it's not much in the way of scenery. And like the sign says, be prepared for uneven ground - and also the remains of blackberry vines that are constantly trying to trip you (jus' sayin'). I sure wouldn't recommend it for kids, or if you have trouble with balance or foot placement. Maybe it will get better as more people use it now that it's brushed, but I can see why it got overgrown - other than making a loop, there is no reason to take this trail. At the moment, it's perfectly doable - just lower your expectations a bit.

As for me, it's one and done.