What: A walk through old-growth timber to view the work of busy beavers.
Where: From Darrington, take the Mountain Loop Highway south for 10 miles. Just past the bridge crossing the Sauk River is a sign for the trailhead. Turn right and go about 0.2 mile to the parking area.
Distance: 4 to 6 miles round trip
Level: Easy
Beginning elevation: 900 feet
High point: 1,200 feet
Map: Green Trails 111 – Sloan Peak
Notes: And we thought we were going to get an early look at some snow-free high country this spring. We’ll just have to wait a bit longer. Meanwhile, here’s an old favorite lowland hike. The Forest Service reports the trail is open and clear. And it’s an easy hike along an old railroad grade, reaching some beaver ponds about 1.5 miles in. Approach quietly for a better chance to see beaver, ducks and other wildlife. A bridge crosses between the ponds and continues in old-growth timber, including cedar trees that are hundreds of years old. You may have to negotiate a washout if you want to continue past two miles, but you can eventually reach the site of an old ranger station.
Permits: Forest Service pass
Information: Darrington Ranger District, 360-436-1155
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