Oceans Shores is a mecca for surfers, ocean lovers and beach goers. But those willing to take a closer look at this iconic beach town will discover choice opportunities for serenity and solitude along two lesser-known nature trails. These hidden gems are the Perkins Pond Nature Trail and the Matthew McGee Nature Trail.
Perkins Pond Nature Trail in Ocean Shores
The Perkins Pond Nature Trail is named in memory of Alice M. Perkins according to a plaque on a bench overlooking the pond. It’s tucked away in a quiet corner of Ocean Shores. The trail is easy to miss. But once discovered, you’ll find the trail is a charming, scenic loop that circles a small lake (or pond). The loop is just over a half mile. The level, gravel path can be completed in about 10 minutes.
The trail is dotted with benches if you’d like to take a break or just want to sit and soak up some solitude. Wildlife viewing opportunities include mallard ducks, great blue herons, geese, chickadees and northern flickers. The Perkins Pond Trail is also a great choice for winter. Because the trail is off the ocean, it offers a quiet, calm walking option when the wind comes howling off the Pacific Ocean.
For those who enjoy a mix of shade and sun, the trail offers both. Portions of the path are out in the open and away from trees. You can get clear views of the pond and the surrounding landscape on these stretches. Other parts are bordered by green, leafy arches and offer thick patches of shade.
The Perkins Pond Trail is maintained by the Ocean Shores Community Club. “It’s part of 32 acres that we maintain within Ocean Shores,” explains Community Club General Manager Kathleen Maroney. “The trail is open to all members and guests and friends. It’s a more secluded little walk that seniors, families and moms with little kids can enjoy. It’s a very friendly trail. A lot of people walk their dogs on the trail as long as they’re leashed and people pick up after their dogs.”
People sometimes decorate the trail for the holidays and swans often show up in January, according to Maroney. “It’s a hidden gem,” says Maroney. “The Perkins Pond Trail is perfect if you just want to grab a cup of coffee and get outside for some exercise on a quiet walking trail.”
An easy walk for young and old, the Perkins Pond Nature Trail is a lightly trafficked trail. You’ll likely enjoy plenty of solitude while exploring. The trail is open year-round. Parking is available near the Ocean Shores Community Club’s Cabana Pool.
While the Perkins Pond Trail is easy to miss, it’s a great find if you’re looking for beautiful scenery amid a serene setting. Leashed dogs are welcome but please remember to clean up after your pet. Note that this trail is within a residential area. Private homes ring the pond, so please be respectful.
You’ll find the trailhead behind the club’s Cabana Pool at 900 Torrisdale Avenue Southwest in Ocean Shores
Matthew McGree Nature Trail in Ocean Shores
Nestled behind the Coastal Interpretive Center, the Matthew McGree Nature Trail is named after a sea otter hunter Matthew McGee. He was the first non-native to permanently reside on the Ocean Shores Peninsula.
Matthew McGee built the first home on Point Brown Peninsula in the 1860s. The land was the location of the famed “Lone Tree” that was the first thing mariners would sight into what is now Grays Harbor. The southern portion of the property was sold to A.O. Damon in 1878 as a trading post. The rest of the property was passed on to McGee’s grandson, Ralph Minard, in 1929. It was purchased by developers in 1960.
About .10 miles, the nature trail winds through thick stands of moss-draped trees. The path is well-maintained and offers benches if you’d like to rest awhile or just enjoy the scenery. Its tranquil setting offers a peaceful respite from city life in the heart of Ocean Shores. The trail is maintained by the Coastal Interpretive Center.
“We currently use this trail for our guests and visitors to learn of our local plants and trees and wildlife,” notes Coastal Interpretive Center Docent Tina James. “It is also used for our educational tours for school groups. We have Salal, Cascara Tree, Evergreen Huckleberry, Sitka Spruce, to name a few. There are a variety of birds that like to occasionally make appearances. There is a nest of thatching ants, which are social insects and build nests out of dried vegetation. They are aggressive and do bite, so please keep your distance.”
Leashed dogs are okay. Please remember to clean up after your pet.
The Coastal Interpretive Center and the Matthew McGee Nature Trail are located at 1033 Catala Avenue Southeast in Ocean Shores.
These tranquil trails offer solitude and serenity, allowing you to reconnect with nature and rejuvenate your soul. So, if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy some wintry walks, consider immersing yourself in the beauty of the natural world at Perkins Pond or the Matthew McGee Trail in Ocean Shores.
