Dosewallips State Park - Steam Donkey Trail — Friday, Jan. 27, 2012

Olympic Peninsula > Hood Canal

When snow on other roads made us abandon our original hiking plans, we decided to take in this 4 mile (including distance to parking area) loop instead. Taking the route counter-clockwise as suggested, you cross a beautiful bridge just after where the loop divides. From there, you go up a gentle slope to the low ridge bordering the river. Switchbacks take you down to the 'Maple Valley', with a thick floor of maple leaves. There are boardwalks through most of the boggy sections but still some running water and mud on the rest of the trail. After another nice bridge over Phantom Creek, you switchback up past the old fire road to the higher ridge. From the flat ridge top, on the descent you'll see the old Steam Donkey water pool with the stone dam controlling the flow. After that comes the old railbed where 1900's trains took the lumber down to the river/Hood Canal. A great winter stroll with enough variety and history to keep it interesting. Only saw one other hiker. This would be a perfect trail for kids.