Photos By
Trailhead

Trails are mostly forest and have a variety of folage.

Some trails are wider than others; some are old roads.

Tree branches are often covered in mosses.

The trails change color with the seasons.

Some trails get a little brushy.

Dried leaves on the trail will make crunching noises.

Trails change over the years; this trail was once an old road.

Trails even look different in the sunlight verses the dimness of a cloudy day.

Brush takes over some of the trails.

The trailguide and horses are familiar with the trails whether the riders can see them or not.

There are many intersections and choices of trails to alter the experience for each ride.

Even on a sunny day, some parts of the trail are very dark.

Ferns dot parts of the forest floor.

These ferns are growing off of large boulders.

Purple blooms of the Salmon Berry plant grow almost everwhere along the trail.

Foxglove flowers also grow along the trail and bloom in the spring.

Decorative thistle flowers also grow along the trails.

A patch of bright yellow flowers.

Trilliums grow alongside the trail in white, lavendar, and purple colors.

Odd shaped trees landmark various points along the trail.

This tree has lots of knarly bumps and moss on it.

This old stump sticks out of multiple colored ferns.

This little tree has several mushrooms growing off of it.

This tree limb has a fluffly bright green moss growing on it.

The trail crosses this large patch of rocky ground. The rocks are various sizes, but there are a couple sandy spots that horses enjoy laying down and rolling in.

Very large rocks are hidden in the forest beside parts of the trail.

This rock is taller than a horse and rider.

These big rocks fell from the cliffs above many years ago. Overtime, people have carved marks into the stone.

Some of the trails cross this little creek when the water level is low. High water travels too swift and cuts us off from some of the trails.

The water flow creates changes in the creek every year. Sometimes trees are uprooted and block the crossing.

A very rare sighting of a small black bear eating apples from under an apple tree.

A small herd of elk do live in the area, but they rarely make an appearance. Usually, they are heard crashing through the brush after spooking the horses.

A few deer also live in the area. They are usually seen along the driveway and railroad tracks, rarely seen along the trail were they move quietly and watch us ride past.

Larger wildlife are more often seen early morning and later afternoon. Many have a pattern and will be seen regularly about the same time each day.

A few varieties of edible berries grow along the trail and can be gathered as riding past. The season starts with Salmonberry and progresses to Mountain Blackberry, Red Huckleberry, Thimbleberry, Black Caps (Wild Raspberry), and then the Evergreen and Himilian Blackberries.

Close up of red huckleberries along the trail. The horses will eat these berries, branches leaves and all.

This Chicken of the Woods mushroom was growing on a stump beside the trail. These mushrooms are edible when very young, but soon get fiberous and tough to eat. They are bright yellow orange and stand out in a dark forest.

There are a few view points along the trail, but as the trees grow taller, they are blocking the views. This view is from below and looking up the hillside.

This view is from a landmark we have labeled the Big Rock. From the top of one hill, the view looks across a valley to an abrupt hillside. This abrupt hillside can also be recognised from downtown Enumclaw over five miles away.

This viewpoint is often used for a picnic spot. From this hilltop, the view looks across the valley back towards the ranch (which can no longer be seen due to tree growth).

The trail begins at the top of a hill high above the Green River. The trail starts out as an access road that provides good footing to get down into the valley below.

In winter, water runs down this hillside.

New trails have been added to the park and nice sign posts have been installed too.

The trail has been well graveled to reduce the mud for all users.

Bridges have been installed over the larger streams.

The trails are very shady and can be cool even in warmer weather.

Some bridges are lower and do not require the railings.

The small stream babbles under the bridge.

At the bottom of the hill, is a picnic table in a large grassy meadow along the bank of the Green River.

A narrow muddy trail leads down to a small beach on the river shore.

The view upstream Green River from the little beach near the picnic meadow.

The view downstream Green River from the little beach near the picnic meadow. Note the other meadow downstream.

The view from the meadow downstream, looking back upstream to the picnic table meadow.

The trail along the river is narrow and muddy.

The trail also has low branches that are difficult to get under. These trails are not as well maintained.

A larger beach downstream. The water makes a deep hole that would be ideal for swimming in warm weather.

Another nice trail near the picnic area. The trail has been named the Potter Trail in memory of a horseman who used to ride here frequently.

The Potter Trail follows the park slopes in the direction of upstream Green River.

The trail is heavily wooded.

The bushes beside the trail are lush and green with spring growth.

Another grassy meadow. Note the bird in the upper left corner; turned out to be an eagle, one of three flying around that day.

An unexpected junk car borders the meadow.

The trail gradually limbs to overlook a forested valley.

The trail then drops back down to river level.

At the farthest south end of the area is a gigantic gravel pit; this is an active pit and entry is not allowed.

There are a few old roads, but most of the trails are narrow.

Some of the trail follows old railroad grade. One small strip of railroad tracks still remain.

The narrow trails are maintained be an active mountain bike group, so occasionally limbs require ducking.

The main trail loops up one side and back on the other side of Ravensdale Creek.

The bridges that cross Ravensdale Creek are hiker/biker only and are not safe for horses.

On Jan 1, this little bit of snow was photographed with birds nest mushrooms.

Rock have been piled to represent this intersection.

The entry sign to this long narrow forest with the most adorable trail.

The trails have nice readable directional signs. The ride starts on the Gracie Trail.

The trail winds through a second growth forest, planted in about 1990.

The trees make a thick canopy, so only a little light gets through. There is very little underbrush, mostly ferns, around the trees.

Some decorative stumps are covered in moss and mushrooms.

Trail intersections are clearly labeled and they have cute names. This trail is called the Fairytale Trail.

The trail is easy to find and follow.

This trail has very little brush hanging in it.

This stump is decorated by a moss covered vine maple.

This old stump has a lot of character.

The size of the stump is magnificent compared to the size of the current trees.

This stump has a tree growing out of it. Old stumps also show the logging history of the land. Note the rectangular holes where planks were inserted for men to stand on while cutting the tree.

There are a few side trails that dead end in heavy brush.

A few parts of this forest are thicket like and little birds bounce from tree limb to limb. There is also an old delapitated foot bridge.

This is an old map of the trails that has been posted at the trailhead for many years.

Several signs indicate that there are trails across the road too.

Cold winter days can add an exciting aspect to the forest land.

This fog added such a romantic and mystical surroundings to the ride.

In contrast to bright sun shining through the trees.

And the leaves just beginning to fall at the end of Summer.

This dying Bracken fern offers striking contrast to the still green ferns.

This tag hanging from the tree is a trail marker.

A new rock bridge over what was once a mud pit.

The last of the seasons red huckleberries, edible and within reach.

Lichen covering lower tree branches along the trail.

A couple of fir cones hanging oddly in a treel.

Putnam Loop Trail wanders through a younger forest. When we first rode this area, we were taller than the trees; look at them now.

Trails intersect the trail system, allowing us to easy add or subtract to the length of the ride.

The trails are all easy to follow and well maintained.

The trees along the Ridge Loop Trail are dripping in moss.

Ridge Loop Trail wanders through an older second growth forest. A denser forest also makes the trail seem darker.

Ferns cover the forest floor surrounding h the trees.

This cross trail starts with a picnic area and then has several obstacles for riders to direct their horses through.

This little bridge now replaces what used to be a three foot deep water crossing.

Lone Wolf Trail is a nice cross trail off the Ridge Loop Trail.

Part of the Putnum Loop Trail has a lot of Vine Maple trees that form a canopy over the trail.

The sun coming through the Vine Maples makes this trail feel like a magical forest.

Some moss hangs from Vine Maple on the Putnum Loop Trail.

The view up through the trees is also beautiful.

The sun and shadows play with these Vine Maple leaves.

Close up of Vine Maple leaves.

The Putnum Loop Trail has different vegetation than the Ridge Loop Trail.

Forest mushrooms grow on the sides of old tree snags.

This distinctive tree pattern is at the edge of a cliff. It is also easily recognized when riding the Cedar River Trail at the bottom of the cliff.

We avoid the cliff edge; view up the Cedar River.

We avoid the cliff edge; view down the Cedar River.

This view down the Cedar River shows how the tree roots hang over the edge of the cliff.

This Putnam Loop does have a small patch of large conifer trees.

There is a lot of history on the Ridge Loop Trail.

The Ridge Loop Trail wanders through a fern covered forest.

The first leaves of fall add contrast to the forest floort.

This old Big Leaf Maple tree decorates the side of the trail.

Moss dripping from the tree limbs on the Ridge Loop Trail.

Moss dripping from the tree limbs on the Ridge Loop Trail.

Riders may not always get a clear view ahead, as they follow the trailguide.

This park is a working forest and these trees may someday be logged.

All the trees have moss, not just those along the trail.

All The dark tree trunks of Wild Cherry are stark among the gray of the conifer trees.

Old stumps remain scattered along the trail as reminders of the logging history.

Mossy limbs point in all directions.

A narrow stream crosses the trail that leads up the hillside.

This stump slowly deteriorates back into the forest floor.

Bright spots ahead on the trail warn of openings onto old logging roads.

The Ridge Loop has gentle sloping trails.

Sun highlights the mossy limbs on the Ridge Loop Trail.

Larger logs have been cut to allow easy passage.

The view up offers new perspective.

Miners Memorial; reminder of the areas tragic mining history. Part of the trail crosses the collapsed mining shaft.

Difficult to see, this is the collapsed mining shaft that parallels this part of the trail.

Here is where the trail has been built over the collapsed mine shaftl.

The area is rich in history as this sign indicates.

This large Big Vine Maple tree towers above the trail.

Trees grow out of this old moss covered log along the trail.

Lichen grows on these tree limbs.

.

.

Carey Creek Trail has some nice views of the creek.

5/30/11 Carey Creek usually has water, but can dry up in late summer.

This old stump along Carey Creek Trail is inside the Renton Watershed.

Little surprises on the stump.

A bridge over Carey Creek.

Southerly view from the trail at top of Holder Knob.

View to SouthEast from top of Holder Knob.

Moss and fern covered stump roots along the trail.

Sign post for the Boot Trail, part of the Carey Creek Loop.

This tree grew oddly.

The Boot Trail has lots of Salmonberry brushes beside it. Occasionally the hikers leave a berry for others.

Salmonberry is edible with a mild watery flavor; most are orange, but a few will get deep red.

This Big Leaf Maple grew like a clump of trees.

Wild Honeysuckle vine wind through some tree branches beside the trail.

These are blooming Thimbleberry plants beside the trail.

These Mountain Blackberries are covering a stump beside the trail.

Little flowers growing beside the trail.

Bumble bees were gathering nectar from the little flowers.

Grasses beside the trail had a little ladybug.

Close up of the ladybug.

View from the top of Holder Knob. This view is disappearing as the trees grow.

View from the top of Holder Knob. The view is slowly disappearing as the trees grow taller.

These green berries are the bitter Red Elderberry; great for birds.

Climbing and descending the trail to Holder Knob offers various views overlooking Maple Valley and Kent.

A stump along the trail.

Trail through a vine maple grove.

View of tree tops over the trail.

Fungus (Witches Butter) growing on a stump along the trail.

A Big Leaf Maple along the Carey Creek Trail.

Some trees arch over the Carey Creek Trail.

Moss dripping from tree limbs along the Carey Creek Trail.

Moss dripping from tree limbs along the Carey Creek Trail.

The hillside above the trail has lots of ferns and moss.

The trees above the trail look taller when they are on a hillside.

This is a managed forest, so logging can happen at any time. This hillside has nice sized trees.

There are a variety of tree species throughout the park.

The view from the top of Taylor Mountain.

The view from the top of Taylor Mountain.

The view from the top of Taylor Mountain.

The view from the top of Taylor Mountain.

The view from the top of Taylor Mountain.

The view of Mr Rainier from the top of Holder Knob.

Ferns make this tree look fuzzy.

Ferns grow out of the moss on many of the trees.

Mountain Blackberry vines cover the stumps and ground along the Holder Knob Trail.

Mountain Blackberry vines cover the stumps and ground along the Holder Knob Trail.

Other flowers decorate the sides of Holder Knob Trail.

Close up of the white flower.

The forest is different at every bend, climbing to Holder Knob.

Brush growing out of an old tree stump.

Some of the trail follows a gravel road.

The trees and stumps look artistic.

This old log has mushrooms growing on it.

Close up of mushrooms.

Views of the trail.

Views of the trail.

Views of the trail.

Views of the trail.

This is a working forest and trails can be temporarily closed for logging.

The trails wander through forests of different ages and growth.

Old growth stumps are evidence of prior logging.

This stump is covered in ferns and other plant life.

Old snags stand out against the fresh new forest.

This is a mossy root wad from an old fallen tree.

These mushrooms are popping out of a plant alongside the trail. Years ago these plants were sold as houseplants called Piggy-back plants - they grow wild everywhere in the forest.

A small stream crosses the trail and is a good place to allow horses to water.

This trail follows an old rail grade cut into the hillside, thus a fallen tree now rests high above the trail.

Climbing, the trail almost offers a view. Soon the trees will be too tall for any view at all.

View to southwest from grassy knoll under the powerlines.

View to northwest from grassy knoll under the powerlines.

Trees along the trail, make the rider look so small.

This colorful branch makes a good frame for the rider.

The trail is frequently graveled in muddy areas and bridges installed to protect streams.

This large culvert goes under the trail; part of the wildlife fish protection.

The stream itself looks barely large enough for fish.

The stream tumbles down a pretty steep bank.

The rythum of hoof steps and beautiful scenery are very relaxing.

This part of the trail is logging road, but the forest looks clear enough that a trail could easily be made through the trees.

.

.

This small waterfall tumbles next to the trail above Dyer Lake (official name is Little Lake).

The trail to Boise Creek waterfall passes First Lake. There are a few scenic lakes in the area.

Little forget-me-not flowers grow along the trail. These flowers are blue, white, and pink.

Boise Creek Waterfall is about 30 feet high and depending on the season, huge amounts of water come from a holding pond above to tumble over the edge onto the rocks. There is (was) a picnic table at the falls.

There is a foot trail that goes to the holding pond above the waterfall.

Rider must dismount before the waterfall as the trail becomes too narrow. The dismount area has lots of stumps and trees, almost like a playground.

There is (was) a cedar rail fence in front of the waterfall that is covered in moss.

Boise Creek below the waterfall is also quite pretty, especially standing out with this snow fall.

View of Mt Rainier from hill top above Mill Pond.

View of Mt Rainier and rock slab of Mt Baldy from the top of Mt Baldy. This slab is remnants of a minor eruption that took place in the late 1800's. Yes, this is a volcano!

This picture taken in January when low-land snow covered the area.

This picture taken in January when low-land snow covered the area. The contrast of snow highlights the details of the forest.

The horses sense when the ground is slippery and actually go slower.

Ice crystals fall from the trees and glisten in the sun.

A view of the grassy valley beneath the powerlines. It is just as stunning in the summer time.

A view down the valley. It is also an opportunity to see other riders and wildlife.

A Coyote dashed across the trail and into the woods. Can you find it?

Snow seems to highlight everything in the forest accept the animals.

A view north provided by a brief break in the treeline.

A view northwest while coming down the Weyerhaueser trail.

Most of the trails are in a treeline.

Some trails can be a little brushy. With the new landowner forbidding trail clearing, they are probably even worse.

Ice crystals growing out of the bank along the trail.

Winter riding is as fun and beautiful as summer, it just requires extra warm clothing.

This is the same view as the first picture, only clouds block the view of Mt Rainier.

The view of the Mill Pond from the hill above.

Halfway down the hill looking east over the Mill Pond.

At the bottom of the hill looking across the pond. We have seen people fishing here, but have seen evidence that there are actually fish in the pond.

4/9/11 The east shore of the pond has huge boulders. There is a trail all the way around the pond and it is an excellent place to stop for lunch.

The view west and back across the valley to Mt Baldy (centered).

The view away from the actual Mud Mtn trails. The view used to be forested, recently clearcut. There were trails from here back to Mt Baldy in the distance.

The trail crosses a piece of gated private land, then goes down into the White River Valley.

The trail starts as older gravel road and it is a long hill down into the valley.

The valley is behind Mud Mtn Dam and can sometimes be closed due to flooding. When flooded, part of the trail is under about 35-40 feet of water. It is interesting to see the flood lines along the trail.

On this day, we discover that the area had recently been flooded, but the flood water was now gone.

A close up. The brown is the flood line which left a fine silt on everything. The trail follows the left bank of the White River, the bank being about 10-15 higher than the current river level.

The silt over the trail is about 4-6 inches deep, but seems to be only in the low spots.

It is scary to think that we ride below the high water mark; swimming is not an option. After about a half mile, the trail climbs slightly with the river and out of the flood zone.

A small stream crosses the trail. As small as it is, we have seen salmon in this stream.

Another stream, this stream has quite a wide gravel path, so it must flow strong in the winter.

It is surprising how clear the water appears in these streams compared to the silty waters of the White River.

About three miles out there is a nice wide spot to rest, outhouse included.

We usually continue riding down the gravel road to the fish dump, a place where the Dept of Fisheries dumps salmon into the river.

The entire area is still wooded, so even the road is an enjoyable ride. Further on down the road is a log cabin with hitching rails to tie the horses and a fire pit to warm up or cook a meal.

The proximity to the river prevents the area from being logged.

At the fish dump, there is a wonderful beach where we can access the river for a nice lunch spot.

The trail follows Greenwater Creek and slowly climbs to Lost Lake.

The trail crosses the creek five times so the water level must be low.

The trail climbs slowly, but the side slope is very steep in places.

Horses cock their heads to help make the ground look level. They also walk on the outside edge, which can be scary.

This tree fell and blocked the trail, but left a new trail where it pulled out.

A huge rock among the trees alongside the trail.

The terrain and vegetation change as the trail climbs.

The view above the trail; the hillside above the trail.

The view below the trail; the hillside below the trail

Another (bigger) random rock beside the trail.

A small stream beside the trail. It eventually flows into Greenwater Creek.

Crossing the small stream is easy for the horses.

This little lake is often missed by hikers. It is hidden among the trees below the trail and the height of the horses help us see it through the trees.

Closer look at the pool of green water.

Looks like another trail joining the main trail; not used enough to be on the map.

A plant called Indian Pipe; it almost glows in sunshine.

Reaching some alpine meadows which have rock flows.

The trail is still dust, but obvious signs of lava rock are showing.

The lava rock flowed unevenly.

The trail wanders the lava fields for about a quarter mile.

Tall alpine trees surround the lava field.

Lost Lake is surrounded my grassy meadow in the summer only. In the spring, the lake level is much higher, thus the lake much bigger.

Open air facility.

A long bridge crossing very swampy ground.

The hillside is solid rock; rider Niki give perspective to how large the rock is.

This rock bluff is actually across the Greenwater Creek from the trail.

The road into the trailhead is a bit tricky, steep one lane road.

The trailhead has several camping spots with a fire pit and a good sized day parking area.

The trail starts out wide and level. In about a half mile, it joins the Pacific Crest trail.

This rock is on the road into the trailhead. It is about 40-50 feet tall.

The trail starts by wandering through forest with minimal ground cover beneath large conifer trees.

Old tree roots sticking out of the ground.

Odd mounds occasionally vary the terrain.

The trail climbs small hills.

The trails is wide and easy to follow. But unless riders are following event markers, the exact route can get confusing with all the intersecting trails.

Sunlight finds its way through the canopy of large conifer trees.

Lichen covers this lower tree branch.

Some wide places even grow a little grass along the trail.

The trail crosses a small stream twice; both crossings are a nice low bridge.

The sign that divides the trail. The low trail is fairly level; the high trail has safe steep climbs that the horses are used to, but persons afraid of heights have difficulty with.

There are several up and down climbs on the upper trail. All are safe and the horses have climbed them many times. This trail goes up.

Buck Creek. It has water year round and the horses always stop to drink.

Buck Creek will disappear underground just a few hundred yards down stream from this point. It travels then travels underground a long ways, making dangerous boggy places near the lower trail. It re-surfaces again just before it enters the White River about a quarter mile away.

After crossing the creek, the trail switchbacks up to the Suntop Trail.

At the top of this last big climb is the Suntop Trai which will gradually go back down.

This part of the trail is worth the whole ride.

There are beautiful mossy rocks and ferns all along the trail.

This humongous rock is above the trail.

And it has beautiful plant life growing all over it.

As the trail reaches the bottom of the hill, it once again joins the lower trail.

This part of the trail has lots of fallen trees, most needing to be cut out of the trail path.

These cut trees soon blend back into the forest scenery.

The very large mushroom (almost the size of a dinner plate) pops up everywhere along the trail in the fall; it is not edible.

These are small Artist Conk mushrooms (not edible).

An old snag beside the trail.

The view up is as amazing as the view at rider level.

This old snag has a large conk mushroom growing at the top.

Odd bits of moss hang occasionally hang from branches.

The trail often looks blocked, but the trail often has a cut path through the blockage.

The view up the old growth Fir tree.

This tree has an odd bit of moss growing on it.

Three generations; tree growing out of snag that grew out of old stump.

This old log is about 4 foot high and covered in plant life.

This one of a few large rocks that are scattered through this forest.

Viewing the trail ahead.

A well used camp site that sits right on the trail. These camp sites are often full of tents and campers, etc.

The view from a gravel bar in the White River; looking up stream (direction of Mt Rainier).

The view from a gravel bar in the White River; looking down stream.

Campers placed these rocks around the trees, making the area look like a garden. The area is constantly changing as these rocks are no longer there.

This is only a small part of the White River; this piece separates and leaves a huge island in the middle of the river.

Even though it is only part of the river, it still gets wide in the winter, as seen by the width of the gravel bar.

An old stump lays on the hill just above the river.

The roots, uncovered by trail use, look like old bones. This spot is recognizable every time we ride over it.

In the fall, this area has mushrooms popping everywhere along the trail.

This little bridge crosses a marshy spot along the trail.

Weathered roots hang off the bank into the river.

This is only part of the river, the main channel is on the other side of the island.

The trees are an island in the middle of White River. The gravel bar is only part of the river flow.

A large fallen tree has been cut to allow the trail through.

This is the final bridge over Buck Creek. It comes out of the ground somewhere to the left and flows to the right along the trail a bit before it finds its way to the river.

This stump looks like a spider perched on the edge of the bank. The area is constantly changing; the stump has been pushed over the edges and is no longer there.

Riding above Buck Creek before it joins the White River.

A photo taken off trail to show how close the trail is to the edge overlooking the river.

An old log beside the trail deteriorates back into the forest.

The trunk end of this old tree is hollow.

Campers have made a hobbit house along side the trail. The area is constantly changing, as this house is no longer there.

A snag with character. Now fallen and fading back into the forest floor.

A young tree grows from a deteriorating old stump. Perhaps in ten or twenty years we can put a comparison picture here; watching the little tree grow.

A distinct path through the forest.

The clearing ahead is the starting point of the ride.

Franklin was a booming coal mining town. The complete history is recorded and maintained at the Black Diamond Museum. The trail starts in a large field across where residents used to gather to play games after attending church. The church was located across the current paved road.

The trail follows a newer road that was cut into the hillside to access the area for logging. The area has several underground mines. Most have been sealed, but occasionally a new one opens when the earth beneath collapses. So staying on roads and trail is critical.

The trail gradually climbs the hill for over a half mile. Originally there was a steep wooden stairway between the field and the hill above.

The trail climbs high above the tree tops below.

Rounding a bend, directional signs encourage visitors that they are on the right path.

The signs elude to the areas history and indicate that the cemetary will be found by taking the trail to the left.

We head for the location of town, the trail to the right. In just a few feet, we find the memorial coal car donated by the local mining company of Palmer Coking Coal.

A closer look at the coal car shows that it has been setup on on a piece of old rail.

A few yards on was the location of the first school, but there are no remnants, only memories. Later the school was moved to the opposite end of town, where only the stone steps remain as evidence.

This stone foundation held machinery and cables that pulled the heavy cars full of coal out of the earth.

Visitors help keep the blackberry vines from taking over and hiding the foundation.

Bits of metal still poke out of the foundation. Pockets in the foundation show where various mechanical parts must have rested.

The mortar of the stone foundation has lots of moss covering it.

The foundation is in very good condition considering the age.

Visitors have respected the area and the historical value of the foundation.

Looking down the trail (road). This road now lays were there was a row of houses. The coal tracks were located parallel to and on the right side of the road.

This hillside, which layed behind the row of houses, was the location of two main mines. The rubble was the location of the fans that pumped air into the mine shafts.

Across from the fans, there was a merchantile (store).

Close up of the building foundations.

Close up of the building foundations.

Further down the trail, the doctor had a house on the hill to the left. A round the bend in the trail there was a saloon and further down, the site of the second school.

Turning around and looking back at the way we have come, we see the hill on the left that was hidden by all the ivy growing on the trees.

Traveling back to the coal car and directional signs offers a different perspective on the landscape.

A break in the trees offers a great view over the valley below and into the distance.

Taking the trail towards the Franklin cemetary.

Like the lower trail, this trail also has a slight incline.

Along the way to the cemetary, the trail passes an old mine shaft. The mine is covered with a grate, surrounded by a protective railing, and marked with a memorial plate.

The memorial plate describes the mine shaft as established before 1910 and being over 1,300 feet deep. Some riders drop a small rock and wait for it to hit bottom.

The trail between the mine shaft and cemetary is too narrow for horses. Riders wishing to visit the cemetary must do so on foot. The cemetary is about 1/4 mile from the mine shaft.

Along the trail, this old pipe sticks out of the bank.

A short ways past the pipe, there is a stone wall grounded into the hillside. This may be another anchor for hauling coal cars out of a mine shaft.

A closer look at the stone wall. The tree above, looks like it has grown out of the wall.

Above the trail, an old iron rail.

The old iron rail parallels the trail.

The old iron rail is narrower than the width of a coal car. The purpose of this iron rail is not known to us.

Several feet below the iron rail is more pipe.

This sign post designating the cemetary is actually posted off an access road at the far end of the park.

This sign post credits the renovation and protection of the cemetary that has been vandalized in recent years.

The cemetary has become overgrown with blackberry bushes, but there are paths made by visitors that lead to a few headstones.

Headstone of Martin Johnson, born Nov 14, 1872, died Mar 7, 1902.

Headstone of L M Peterson, died Jan 1906 at age 30.

Headstone of Alice Gertrude Johnson, born Jan 1, 1902, died Jan 7 1902.

Headstone of Frances Marie Myers, born Mar 13, 1901, died May 24, 1901.

Some headstones have rose plants that have gone wild around them.

Headstone of James Gibson, died Aug 24, 1894, aged 27 years.

Headstone of Romulous Monroe Gibson, died Oct 5, 1895, aged 35 years.

Some headstones are inside fencing. Note that the fence is black, but not rusty.

This fence is a little more decorative. Note that this fence is more gray, but also no rust.

The ivy roots growing on this tree are very large. It is only assumed that there were not any trees in the cemetary during the time it was being used. So this tree is probably less than 100 years old.

The trail goes back down the hill the same as we came up.

The waterfall that feeds the fish ponds below Hanging Gardens.

A very narrow bridge on the trail to Silver Lake.

An entrance to a mine is seen just before crossing the narrow bridge.

The stream that the narrow bridge crosses.

A small wilderness camp area along the shore of Silver Lake.

Dead trees line the lake edge, without a water flow, it is difficult to understand how they got there.

The grass along the shores of the lake are filled with colorful wild flowers.

The view from the top of a ski lift overlooking Crystal Mountain Lodge.

A closer look at Crystal Mountain Lodge.

Orange colored Indian Paintbrush and a large rock; on the slope above the Ski Lodge.

Orange and Red/Pink Indian Paintbrush along the trail.

The Crow Lake Trail is in the wilderness; riders must fill out a wilderness card.

The Crow Lake Trail heads up the hillside in a zigzag pattern. This is called switchbacks, and it makes the hill longer, but easier to climb. First to the left...

then to the right, and then...

back to the left, etc. The trail takes us higher and higher, and the view gets better and better.

The trail levels off part way up on a rocky bluff, where the trail wanders through some large boulders.

The view down into the south valley; Highway 410 and the American River below. Remember that the trail started at the same level as the highway.

The trail is well worn and wide at most points, but occasionally it seems to get narrow.

There are several large uprooted stumps along the trail. The wind has polished them into a gray starkness compared to the green folage where they rest.

Notice the little swirl patterns in the wood of the roots.

Natures stone wall juts across the path, so the trail just goes around.

This weather upon this ridge leaves evidence of harsh existence.

There are many rocky outcropping along the trail.

A view ahead. The trail is actually at the top tree line.

A view into the valley ahead. The trail has switchbacks so that the trail will drop slowly back down.

A large meadow surrounded by trees. The grasses are actually growing on what is moister ground.

This small stream flows near the trail.

Every turn of the trail offers a new breathtaking view. Here is another meadow and a rock bluff high in the distance.

These old dead pine trees have odd bumps on them.

The bumps make the dead tree snags look interesting.

This is the only part of the forest so far that has the dead trees with these odd bumps.

A side trail leads to Sheep Lake that looks very green through the trees.

A closer look at the lake shows that it is clear, but not green from this angle. There is a very very nice camping spot just above the shore.

We often see fisherman catching some nice sized trout, but we always seem to forget our own fishing pole.

More bumpy logs. We didn't notice any live trees with these bumps. So did the bumps kill the trees or are live trees able to resist whatever makes the bumps.

The burls often look like other objects. The bottom of this one looks like a face mask.

The views going back down the trail (returning the path we came) are just as spectacular as coming up the trail.

Sometimes the trail does not look as steep as it felt when we rode over it.

Other times it seem steeper.

A view from the trail across the valley towards the east, Fifes Peak.

The view seems to change around each switchback. Coming up the trail, we did not notice the window in the rock.

Sunlight comes through the trees, showing the green underbrush.

The Pleasant Valley trail parallels the highway in one direction, the American River in the other.

There are bridges across the small streams that come off the hill. These streams are much deeper in the fall and winter.

The sun bakes the forest and the earth, producing wonderful smells.

Most bridges have a safe passing through the stream bed if the water is low.

The trail seems cooler in the valley and the forest is much more greener than up on the hill.

There are occasional glimpses of the highway, but traffic can be heard from the trail.

Private cabins appear out of nowhere. Some are small, other quite large.

A sign board across from the Pleasant Valley campground posts trail conditions.

The American River. Crossing are far and few between.

The river side trail is far away from the highway and much quieter.

Sign post for the trail. This is an intersection where another trail leads high uphill to even more trails.

A small stream.

The American River. The river can be very high and dangerous in the winter and spring.

Crossing the American River, there is a short trail the ends at the main trailhead.

This little trail is also very lush with vegetation; a forest floor of Vanilla Leaf plants.

Fifes Peak can be clearly seen from the trailhead entrance. It towers on the hillside above.

The trailhead entrance also has a memorial marker.

Memorial marker 1 is side-by-side...

memorial marker 2.

Back on the other side of the American River, the trail continues following the river downstream.

This portion of the trail is much closer to the river, as parts of the river are seen through the trees quite often.

When a bridge has been damaged, it is not safe to cross with a horse.

But someone has made a safe trail around this bridge by going downstream and crossing.

This is a beautiful river, with many access points along this part of the trail that deserve more exploration on foot.

The trail is easy to follow.

Delicate little flowers grow along the trail.

Unusual trees and old stumps add to the beauty of the forest.

Can you see the salmon in the river?

This hillside of rocks comes down to the edge of the trail.

This is a dry creek bottom, but torrents of water must have moved those logs into place.

The trail once again crosses the highway and then returns back to the main trailhead.

Help us explore these trails.

Help us explore these trails.

The Pacific Crest Trail follows the ridge tops of the Cascade Mountains.

This mountain lake is surrounded by grassy meadow.

Signs are always reassuring that we are on the right trail, as there are lots of side trails.

Rocks above the trail add lots of character to the scenery.

This rock is about 25 feet in the air and very inviting for a climb.

The little rock slabs are 6-8 inches thick. The top one is about 3 feet thick.

A view towards the east.

Moss was draping this one tree, but not any of the others in the area.

An old tree snag.

A large rock bluff ahead on the trail.

Rocks seem to poke out of the ground all along the trail.

A large grassy meadow below the trail.

We did not cross this bridge, but some obviously did. Hopefully their horse was not injured.

It looks muddy, but not. It was a lot safer than the bridge.

Moss covered rock bluff right on the trail.

A small pond. The scum is actually grasses bend over and floating on the waters surface.

A sign posting one of the many optional trails.

Optional trails often lead to another trail that will come back to the Pacific Crest Trail. Thus making the possiblility of making a loop in the ride, not just an in and back out ride.

Craggly tree tops.

More moss covered trees. Most of the trees do not have moss draping from them.

Another rock bluff accessible from the trail. Always inviting to a willing climber/explorer.

Another mountain meadow and pond inviting for a picnic lunch.

Wild flowers along the trail.

Another trail cuts off from the Pacific Crest Trail. Many of these trail intersections have a little campsite for backpackers near them.

Large and small meadows just appear along the trail. Often there are backpacker campsites just inside the tree lines.

Red elderberries ripening along the trail. The are very bitter, but the birds love them.

.

.

The view east from the top of Green Mountain.

The view southeast from the top of Green Mountain is Mt Adams.

A small stream at the bottom of Green Mountain.

Wild flowers fill the banks of the small stream at the botom of Green Mountain.

The trail has small logs that form steps. These logs help prevent the weather from washing away the trail.

Here the weather has washed the trail and left rocks. Notice that the sides of the trail are higher.

The altitude and shade have prevented this patch of snow from melting completely away.

These delicate little flowers appear to be growing out of a solid rock slab.

The trail crosses a small stream. The horses often refresh themselves by drinking.

A small stream flows through this mountain meadow.

The landscape changes frequently and has great views of Mt Adams.

Snow still covers the trail in August.

The trail is surrounded by alpine trees. Alpine trees are trees that a small and stunted, but still small because they grow slower in the colder climate.

A rocky outcropping rises beside the trail.

The trail passes through many small meadows that look inviting to hungry horses.

As the trail loops north, there is a view of Mt Rainier between the trees.

The trail has some great views of the valley where the trailhead is hidden from sight.

A view from the top of the bluff where Killen Creek (barely seen just left of photo center) drops over the edge into the meadow below.

A view from the meadow below, Killen Creek tumbles off the bluff. This meadow was full of beautiful wild flowers and fierce mosquitos.

The trees surrounding the trail appear to have died and left these stark reminders of what was a forest.

A view of a mountain lake below the lake. There is often a side trail leading down to the lakes that can be a picnic spot or refreshing swim hole.

This view of Mt Adams is from Mosquito Meadows. There were no mosquitos in the meadows, but the forested trail along the meadows was full of fierce hords of mosquitos.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

February view over Mayfield Lake and farm lands below the trail.

February view up the valley above Mayfield Lake.

February view across the valley to Mt St Helens in the distance.

April view of Cowlitz River just above Mayfield Lake.

April view of farms in the valley and Mayfield Lake in the distance.

Mossy limbs growing along the trail.

A small stream tumbling out of the forest.

This stream is fed by a large beaver pond at the top of the hill above.

An unusual type of moss resembles yarn thread. This small patch is the only area this type of moss was seen.

A more typical moss grows everywhere along the trail.

The Tilton River will flood this entire beach during most winter months.

Closer look upstream of the Tilton River.

The trail switchback gradual hillsides thickly covered in Deer Clover.

Many of the forest trees are draped in moss.

The trail wanders through a fantasy like forest, elves and fairies hide everywhere.

This is a managed forest and could be logged at any time. Some large old stumps still remain from the original logging.

This was a sunny day, so sun spots find their way to the forest floor and the trail.

The scenery is very lush, the trails are dirt and can be very muddy if the weather is wet.

Most of the forest floor is Deer Clover, but occasionally ferns find a place to grow too.

There is very little underbrush compared to many of our other ride locations.

The switchbacks keep the trail from being steep.

The trail went through this unusual hardwood forest; most of the trail is in Douglas Fir forest.

This large old stump reminds us of how large the trees were at one time.

Glimpses of a small pond hidden in the forest.

Deer clover is edible and has a very sour taste.

This old stump has large burls on it.

.

.

.

.

.

.

This part of the trail follows an old road.

View across valley.

Another view across the valley.

.

Missy and Big are ready for the ride. The morning started off very cool and foggy.

Some of the ride was on private land and part in a State Park. The private landowner has posted his property with permission for non-motorized vehicle use; woo-hoo for horse use.

Madronna trees are reddish with peeling bark and they grow kinky.

This is the only trail we have ever seen an abundance of Madronna trees on.

The kinks in the growth add such great character.

The drove of these trees was immense in size.

And there were native rhododendron plants growing beside the trails too.

Fantastic ride for riders who want to see the real variety of Washington State trails.

The trees were breath taking at each turn of this trail.

A beautiful, but heartbreaking photo. Ethan & Sandy in a special moment; unfortunately Ethan hurt his foot and will never make another long ride like this.

.

.

.

.

The ranger house at Anti Aircraft Trailhead, top of Cougar Mountain.

The entry sign for Shangri La Trail.

The trail appears wide and well maintained.

As the trail enters the private land, it narrows, but it is still easy to follow.

The trail skirts the backyards of houses that overlook the Issaquah Valley.

There is a rickety old rail fence along the trail.

The view through the trees is amazing on a clear day.

Signs show entry back into the park.

The brush is cut far back from the trail.

And it has been well gravelled to prevent mud.

The trails are clearly signed to keep horses off the hiker only trails.

But maps at the trailhead indicate hiker only trails that are not labeled on the trail.

It seems to be a rather young forest, not a lot of large trees..

Approaching the end of the trail loop.

Starting down the Protector Trail towards Klondike Swamp.

A look back at the horse trailer parking lot.

A huge field and picnic shelter next to the parking lot.

Cross trails are well marked.

The trees on this trail are more varied. The trail started with large old growth trees and soon turned to Vine Maples and alders.

Vine Maple limbs canopy the trail.

Several hiker only trails intersect the Klondike Swamp Trail.

Maiden Hair Fern decorates the side of the trail.

Despite the trail name, there was a small moist spot, but no swamp.

Large old stump as evidence of what the forest was at one time.

Access to the Cave Hole is not available on horseback.

There are more hikers using this trail than the Shangri La Trail.

More views of the trail.

More views of the trail.

More views of the trail.

More views of the trail.

Pergola Trail is advertised with A Million Dollar View, the value of the land if one could build a house there.

This sign board lists and describes the various animals living in the park.

View of Puget Sound. There is a nice pergola building on the hilltop also.

Close up of the view. The pergola can be reserved for weddings, etc.

The trail starts in a large meadow at Silver Ridge Resort. This is the registration tent of a Prize Ride; one of many held at this location.

The meadow is full of ferns and wild flowers.

The trail skirts the edges of the Easton Airport.

Silver Creek is adjacent to various parts of the trail and an excellent place to offer the horses a drink of water. The creek was high on this day, but it is usually much lower.

Most of the trails are lower and easy to travel. The nearby National Forest has trails that climb high above Easton State Park.

The trail follows a part of the shoreline for Kachess Lake. When the lake is full, waves in the lake will make sounds when they reach shore and the horses snort.

A fuller view of the lake. This location on the trail often makes a good backdrop for rider photos.

Late summer, the lake waters receed and the horses can walk a short ways out onto the beach for photos. We will not approach the water for the danger of sucking mud is too high.

The trees within Easton State Park are large and old.

Outside of the State Park are some managed timber land. This old stump is surrounded by a recent clearcut and now young planted trees.

The trail gradually climbs to the top of Roslyn Ridge, then follows it in a loop to return back to town.

The hills along Roslyn Ridge are spotted with wild flowers.

This giant stone is taller than a rider sitting a horse. It is an excellent place to take a photograph of riders.

This large stone was once oozing lava that made a smooth cover over the hillside.

The trail starts by climbing a long hill to a beautiful park like meadow.

The meadow is part of Flying Horseshoe Ranch and has teepees and cabins for rent.

The ranch trails have cute signage.

The trail crosses a private ranch with unique decoration.

The trail crosses a private ranch with unique decoration.

The trail crosses a private ranch with unique decoration.

The trail follows old dirt roads through meadows abundant with wild flowers.

Much of the area has been reforested, but new trees are quite small.

The sparse trees allow for visual distance.

The trail follows this road around this valley and down the tree line on the other side.

The taller trees are left to help re-seed the forest.

This little hole in the stump is a chipmunk home; chipmunks heavily populate the area

This part of the trail has magnificent views.

The clouds add to the beauty of the valley.

Elk bones litter the side of the trail.

Elk bones litter the side of the trail.

A large bird flies overhead.

Close up of large bird.

This weather worn rooted stump decorates the trail.

View from the top of the ridge down to camp (see horse trailers between the trees).

.

.

.

.

.

.

The start of the trail climbs the hill overlooking the valley of horse trailers.

The hillside above the trail has a few varieties of wild flowers and lots of sage bushes.

The crest of the hill offers a view of a sweeping valley, wherein lies the town of Thorp.

Sage bushes line the trail that leads into Joe Watt Canyon.

The area used to be fenced with barbed wire. It is now a wildlife refuse.

The trail up the canyon has some rock outcroppings. The trail also has some rocky spots that the horses have to pick their footing through.

A small plant of bright yellow wild flowers.

The flowers are very fragrant.

Several species of flowers grow along this dry creek bed.

Indian paint brush flowers brighten the trail.

A small stand of these white bark trees are along the trail.

Blue Lupen flowers dot this hillside.

Some of the sage bushes have delicate little yellow blooms covering them.

This same white flower is sometimes seen in a pink or lavendar color.

Small sunflowers grow in a ditch.

This delicate flower, on a tall stem, bobs in the light breeze.

The butterflies (or moths) are as colorful as the flowers.

This large grassy meadow rest beside the trail.

Remnants of an old log cabin.

Another view of the old log cabin.

This tall Lilac tree grows wild near the old log cabin.

Some of the grasses beside the trail look like an odd flower.

This pile of rocks stands out as there are no others in the area, they have obviously been collected and piled here.

Lichen grows on the branch of this Pine tree.

Old barbed wire fencing has been removed from the posts, rolled, and piled at the base of this tree beside the trail.

Most of the trail wanders over meadows beneath tall Pine trees.

Is this a rock on a limb or a root grown around a rock.

This is a small spring fed pond along the trail.

A view back at the pond from the hillside above.

One of two small streams that the trail crosses.

A view of the valley. Unseen - in the opposite direction of this photo is an amazing view of the Alpine Wilderness and Mt Stewart.

A different perspective on the view of the valley.

.

.

.

.

.

.