penstock trail (old pipeline trail)

Now, this was FUN!!! I know it is February, but do the bathrooms REALLY have to be closed???? The hike was very fun, but we never did see the old mine that the water was piped up to??

This isn't much of a "wilderness" experience as the highway runs on the other side of the river that you follow, but the forest is lush and the river is pretty special. In the mile or so of walking along the river, you pass by at least 2 sets of Class IV rapids and other whitewater as well. There is a sandy beach spot about 2/3 of a mile upstream from the start of the hike. At that spot are two crosses and a story explaining their presence there. They are a tragic reminder of the importance of knowing the power that rivers hold, and how little power swimmers have against a strong current. This would be a wonderful hike on a hot day, and was nice even on a damp, cool day.

This could have been an awesome hike...but P doesn't do fording. The initial bit, crossing the pipeline bridge, was great, but everything is running high right now and about a half-mile in we came to a stream that she didn't feel she could ford.By and large, this seems like a nice little hike by the river, but nothing that treks like Icicle Gorge can't supply -- without having to wade in water that makes nervous hikers...um...more nervous.Most of what we saw was riverside overgrowth, plus a few aggressive robins for ambiance.Maybe in October...

This hike is the greatest for an easy hike close to town. It's scenic, level and not too long. I almost hate to review it because it's never too crowded either and I don't want that to change. Good for dogs, older folks and kids too. If you feel like a little bit of traversing the bank you can get down to the river for a quick swim or picnic in the summer. Beware in spring due to run off you can't get the whole hike in though, due to the cascading waterfall that intersects the trail. It will be dry in summer though and fall.

This is an easy two mile hike along the beautiful Tumwater river. We always plan our trip so we can picnic just across the bride. A nice shady place with a beautiful view. Today we watched a para glider catching the thermals over the mountain. Wonderful.

Always a great wildflower hike - best traveled early summer.

wonderful trail along water---really great in spring