What: A flat trail that parallels the Sauk River for three miles near Darrington.
Where: From Darrington, take the Mountain Loop Highway about four miles southeast, just past the Clear Creek Campground. The parking area and trailhead are on the left, a short way into the woods.
Distance: 6 miles round trip
Level: Very easy
Beginning elevation: 600 feet
High point: 600 feet
Map: Green Trails 110, Silverton
Notes: This trail had large areas taken out by flooding in 2003, but the Forest Service has since restored the trail and rerouted part of it into the woods away from the washout. It’s an easy and pleasant walk, with just a couple of tributary streams to pick your way across. There are plenty of views of the river as the trail meanders under a mossy canopy of cedar and fir. Look for flowers and other interesting vegetation along the shady forest floor. Waterfowl are frequently present in quieter pools along the river’s edge. Look for salmon and steelhead if you go later in the summer or fall. It’s a great trail for children.
Permits: Forest Service pass for the parking area.
Information: Darrington Ranger Station, 360-436-1155; www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/recreation/activities/trails
Ron Ramey
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