We parked at the small lot located in Old Mill Park at 2901 Bucklin Hill Road. This compact park has nice views and shoreline access to Dyes Inlet. Plentiful shrubbery almost makes one forget that you are less than a block away from considerable traffic and big box sprawl. And that is how it goes as you hike the trail north along Clear Creek--a startling juxtaposition of natural idyll and concrete jungle.
From Dyes Inlet to the underpass crossing of Hwy 303, the trail stays close to Clear Creek, and except for two short sections, exists on both sides of the creek. After 303 the trail corridor broadens. We veered northwest by north into wetlands and meadows then turned east past weathered farmhouse and barn instead of continuing north to Trigger Avenue. As we followed our "loop" south we briefly walked on a dead end residential road right back into the park. A large trailhead parking lot and adjoining dog park appeared. The creek too came back into full view with water splashing over a beaver dam. We did not explore the spur trails noted on the map here: https://www.clearcreektrail.org/visit
There are lots of amenities to encourage trail enjoyment and safety. There is ongoing plant restoration of creek banks, wetlands, and meadows to improve the health of salmon-bearing Clear Creek. If you live nearby, go to ClearCreek.org to volunteer. Large interpretative signs note the natural history, and Native American names and illustrative designs on those signs are small reminders to viewers of the often ignored history and connection of people to a place before colonists. The trails--paved, compacted gravel, boardwalk, or mowed grass path--are in very good condition and actively maintained. Much of the trail is ADA-compliant, and I will highly recommend to friends and family that use mobility assistance. Benches or picnic tables are alongside the trail in multiple spots. Pedestrian crosswalks, some with flashing lights, have been installed at road crossings.
This is a really wonderful walk especially in winter. Combined with Theler Wetlands near Belfair or Guillemot Cove near Seabeck, and you have a full day of exploring hidden gems on the Kitsap Peninsula.
Thank you Christine for photos!
Comments