Forest hike on a trail shared with mountain bikes. Good dirt tread with some boardwalks and bridges over marshy areas. The trail is uphill from and follows the White River. From the Trailhead on Road 73 it is 2 miles to Skookum Falls, the source of Skookum Creek which flows down to the White River. There is a steep (sometimes muddy) side trail up for a closer view of the Falls. From the Falls it is 2 miles to Buck Creek and the site of the old suspension bridge that was taken out by falling trees in the fall storms of 2006. Buck Creek Road is another mile, making it 5 miles total one way. Elevation gain is about 500 feet, in several spates of ups and downs. There is a water crossing (usually wide and shallow) at Skookum Creek. See hike listing on card #28 in the Winter Hikes of Western Washington Deck.

An alternative to the after Thanksgiving shopping madness! A leisurely paced hike with plenty of stops to admire the scenery, take pictures, soak up the serenity of the forest, catch our breath, adjust gear and clothing, etc., etc. We'll stay together as a group. If you haven't been on one of my trips before you should get in touch with me, via email or phone, so we can chat about our mutual expectations for the day. Optional stop on the way home for pie or dinner, drivers' choice.