Summer is perfect for walks outside, and not just because of the warm weather. Long bright days, balmy evenings and early-morning, birdsong-filled excursions make up for winter’s lack of daylight. Whether you’re a dedicated hiker, dog-walking rambler, birder, photographer, exercise nut or just helping the kids burn off some extra energy, Elma and Montesano have plenty of great spots. Time spent outdoors is good for the body, mind and spirit. Bundle up and pack a few necessities for your day exploring a new spot or a family-friendly favorite. Here is where to take a walk in Elma and Montesano.
Montesano’s Best Hikes, Walks, Wanders and Rambles
For a paved path with boardwalks and a picturesque bridge, Friend’s Landing Trail can be completed in approximately 30 minutes. Rated easy, leashed dogs are welcome and Friend’s Landing is open year-round so be sure to bring a friend.
If your kiddos are just starting out with the whole walking thing, introduce them to nature at the Wynoochee Falls Trail. At only half a mile long, it can be completed in less than 15 minutes but is a great way for even the littlest to enjoy the forest, river and a waterfall. Leashed dogs are welcome.
At around three miles, Lake Sylvia area walks take approximately an hour and are considered moderate. Open for walkers, hikers, mountain bikers and even fishing, bring the pup and family for a lovely loop. Portions of the park are closed this summer for improvement so check status before heading out. Similar in length, the Brownie Trail skirts a beach, ideal for birdwatching. Keep in mind that Lake Sylvia will be closed through September 30, 2024.
Turn your daytrip into a staycation by reserving a camping spot at Friends Landing. With tent and RV sites, Friends Landing welcomes fishing, boating, picnicking, hiking, biking and bookable day-use picnic shelters. Call 360.861.8864 to reserve your space.
Where to Talk in Elma with Scenic Panoramas
Elma’s main hikes tend to be rated either easy or difficult, with little in between. But if you’re ready to tackle the challenge, load up the squad and head out for some fun.
Like Wynoochee Falls, Group Camp Hiking Loop is a great spot for beginners. It’s 0.6 miles and takes less than 15 minutes. But why rush? Bring the littles and explore wildflowers, interesting stones and all the smells of a forest in summer. Of similar length, Vance Creek Loop circles the water which means fascinating birds and critters galore without too many serious hikers who’ll be frustrated with your dawdling.
East Fork Satsop River Loop and Porter Creek Falls are approximately 1.5 miles each but still rated easy by knowledgeable trail guides. The loop is just that while Porter Creek Falls is an out-and-back adventure. Both can be completed in under an hour.
For more dedicated walkers, Porter Trail, unlike its similarly named brethren, and Capitol Peak via the Crestline Trail are ranked as hard. Capitol Peak’s hike is just under 10 miles while Porter Trail is over 25. Both explore the Capitol State Forest. The Peak gains 1,400 feet in elevation during the loop and Porter Trail climbs more than 3,000 feet during its out-and-back.
Prefer walks that include activities when walking as well? Check out Schafer State Park where the fishing is top-notch and you can camp, swim, boat, bike, birdwatch and even explore with your metal detector.
And pull up the Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds event calendar before you go. With the Fair, shows, swap meets and other annual activities, your explorations could end with elephant ears or some new secondhand treasures.
Grays Harbor Walking Tips
Walking in the sun provides vitamin D for your bones, blood cells and immune system and just being nature has been shown to reduce anxiety. Getting outdoors can improve your sleep, focus, creativity and is exercise without the cost and pressure of going to a gym.
Before you hit the trailhead, make sure to pack a few essentials just in case. Even if you’re just exploring in-town parks, a bag of supplies never hurts.
The experts at BackCountry suggest having a basic first aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellant, snacks and water. If you’re going somewhere a little more adventurous, or somewhere you’ve never been before, they recommend having a packable jacket for unexpectedly cool or wet weather, hard-copy maps in case cell or GPS coverage are unreliable and properly supportive hiking shoes.
Summer is finally here. Take some time to get outdoors while you can. Take a walk with the kids and dog or set off on a no-nonsense hike to unplug from the daily grind. Find a new favorite spot or revisit much loved sites from your childhood. Making memories is as easy as spending time together in the sunshine.
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