The Lopez Community Trails Network, a trails organization on Lopez Island is again scheduling a series of hikes open to the public under the title of “Go Take a Hike.” The hike schedule, under the direction of Bob Walker includes a variety of destinations on and off the Island, including easy beach walks to more strenuous mountain hikes. Hikes are at a leisurely pace encouraging exploration and experiencing the wonders of nature.
Sign up is by phone or email with Bob Walker or the hike leader. There is no expense except the sharing of transportation costs when we go off island. Please call with any questions about any details.
April 20
Cascade Falls at Moran State Park, Orcas Island
Leader, Bob Walker
A perfect time of year to hike this trail that parallels the stream which flows from Mountain Lake to Cascade Lake. This is in a gorgeous spring environment with multiple waterfalls and such an easy short hike too. It is about 2.5 miles round trip, (Olga Rd. to the dam and return). Those on Lopez will car pool for the 9:55 ferry to Orcas. Meet at Orcas trailhead at 11:15. Return to Lopez on the 3:10 ferry. Sign up with Bob Walker 468-3397 or robwillwalk@hotmail.com
May 18
Little Cranberry Lake at Anacortes Community Forest Lands
Leader, Bob Walker
This little jewel of a lake is just 5 minutes from the Anacortes ferry terminal, but seems worlds away. There are many optional up and down routes that circumnavigate the lake for a total of 2 or 3 miles unless the group wants to explore even further. From Lopez we will car pool for the 9:35 ferry. If you are from Orcas, call for car pool instructions. For sign up or questions call Bob at 468-3397 or e-mail robwillwalk@hotmail.com.
June 22
Chadwick Hill, Point Colville Traverse on Lopez Island
Leader, Brad Buchanan
This route is especially fun if you have not hiked it before. It involves a pasture, a forested trail, a rope swing, a view of a beach 300 ft. below, a steep rocky trail decent, [my 9 year old granddaughter did it], a beach walk, up the trail heading south, a meadow traverse, and a view south from Pt. Colville. Three or 4 miles max, but oh so much fun. Meet at Watmough Bay parking lot at 9:00. A van shuttle will be arranged. Sign up with Brad at 468-3099 or Bob Walker at 468-3397.
July 13
Turtleback Mountain on Orcas Island
Leader, Mike Moore
The south trailhead approach gives you immediate views to other San Juan Islands on the south. As you head up, mossy outcrops and wild flowers appear as well as the mountain crest. If we are lucky, the new Turtlehead connector trail may be ready for us to explore. This is 3 to 6 miles, round trip depending. We will car pool from Lopez on an early morning ferry. Sign up with Mike at 468-3622 or Bob Walker at 468-3397.
August 24
Railroad Grade off Hwy 20, Mt Baker
Leader, Chris Coiley
Do you know what a lateral moraine is? Well, the answer contributed to the Railroad Grade name. In this case it is a smooth ascending grade at the very edge of the retreated Easton Glacier on Mt. Baker. All this is set in up close views of Mt. Baker surrounded by meadows, wildflowers and marmots. This is a very popular, all day event with a moderately strenuous hike of 8 miles round trip. Check out local guide books or the web for more information. For sign up and car pool arrangements contact Chris at 468-4090.
Sept. 28
Yellow Aster Butte off Hwy 542, Mt. Baker
Leader, Chris Coiley
On the north side from Mt. Baker, just east of the town of Glacier, this hike has meadows, rock tarns, (ponds), wild blueberries and mountain views galore. This is an all day event that is considered moderately strenuous with an 8 mile round trip trail hike gaining 2200 Feet of elevation. For more information including car pool arrangements and sign up call Chris at 468-4090. Also, for more info about this very popular hike check mountain guide books or the web.
Oct. 12
Lopez Hill mushroom hunt
Leader, Tim Clark, [SJC Land Bank]
If you want to know more about mushroom identification and maybe bring some home as well, this may be the hike for you. This is an easy forested hike to the top of the highest point on Lopez Island. Meet at trailhead parking off of Lopez Sound Road at 9:00. No sign up necessary. For questions call Tim at 468-2010.
