Monarch Sculpture Park is an outdoor public art project. The park is located on the Chehalis Western trail just south of Olympia, near Tenino. The park features over 100 sculptures, a hedge maze, a sound garden, and a bird and butterfly garden. There is a lovely creek that runs through the park, and many places to sit and enjoy the views of the surrounding prairie and hills. Monarch Sculpture Park The Rundown Spoon Rating: 1 Distance: varies Elevation Change: Less than 50 ft. Typical Surface: Compact gravel, natural Typical Width: 4 ft Nearest Town: Tenino, WA. Cell Phone Reception: Good, sometimes spotty Amenities: Wheelchair acessible Why go? Monarch Sculpture Park is an outdoor public art project. The park is located on the Chehalis Western trail just south of Olympia, near Tenino. The park features over 100 sculptures, a hedge maze, a sound garden, and a bird and butterfly garden. There is a lovely creek that runs through the park, and many places to sit and enjoy the views of the surrounding prairie and hills. The Hike There isn’t a trail exactly, more like multiple ways to wander through the gardens and view the sculptures. The entire park is 5 acres. The entrance to the park lies above the rest of the gardens, so you will have to walk down one of the paths or a set of steps. None of the paths are very steep and are accessible in a wheelchair, though they may require some assistance. Once in the lower level of the gardens, the grounds are mostly grass with some gravel and a couple of moist areas. Wander your way through as you are able. To get to the maze and the sound garden, cross the level bridge over the creek. Check out the huge lumber bells outside of the park, too. [Featured image description: A sign reads Monarch Sculpture Park. Park hours dawn to dusk year round. Founded by artists and private patron in 1995 as a non-profit 501c3 entity. Mission Statement: to create an atmosphere conducive to the creation, presentation, appreciation, and sale of fine art. Programs sponsored by Monarch: student mentoring and community outreach. Monarch is a volunteer agency. We are funded by your your donations. If you feel that we are fulfilling an important role in the cultural life of the community and the region, please support us. Place your donation in the box at the entrance or mail us your contribution. Thank you and enjoy your visit. Myrna Orsini, founder and director. the sign is surrounded by colorful monarch butterflies and sculptural art.] The park is in a bit of a state of disrepair, and there are signs reminding visitors that the gardens are being restored. As it is, the sculptures are interesting, the creek is a lovely feature, and it is nice to have a place to be in the quiet of the area. It is a nice place to visit if you are on your way to other hikes in the area or if you are biking the Chehalis Western trail. There is a porta potty available, but it was not wheelchair accessible when I visited. A blue trellis frames a large yellow butterfly sculpture with a small garden house in the background A mosaic farm scene beside a creek. Glass standing stones beside a creek. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: N/A Getting There: It is an easy drive from Olympia and not far off of I-5 exit 99. But if you can, I recommend taking Rainier Road south from south Lacey for a more scenic route. Either way, you’ll drive on paved two-lane county roads through rolling farm land and prairie. You can’t miss the entrance, just look for huge sculptures lining the road, and a large colorful butterfly sculpture on the left. Turn right there, park in the little parking area on the left if there is space and walk to the right on the gravel driveway. If there is no parking here, you can continue a little further to another parking area for the trail. Nearby Alternatives: Wolf Haven Sanctuary is nearby, and Deschutes Falls Park is 30 minutes away. Land Acknowledgement: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.

Smith Rock State Park, located near Bend, Oregon is described as one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon, and rightly so – it is a stunning place with incredible vistas. It is one of the most heavily visited places in Oregon, hosting rock climbers, equestrians, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Unfortunately, Smith Rock State Park does not rate well for accessibility and options are limited for disabled people traveling to the park. Smith Rock State Park The Rundown Spoon Rating: 2 Distance: not listed Elevation Change: 20 ft. Typical Surface: varied Typical Width: varied Nearest Town: Bend, OR Cell Phone Reception: varied Amenities: unlisted Why go? Smith Rock State Park, located near Bend, Oregon is described as one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon, and rightly so – it is a stunning place with incredible vistas. It is one of the most heavily visited places in Oregon, hosting rock climbers, equestrians, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Unfortunately, Smith Rock State Park does not rate well for accessibility and options are limited for disabled people traveling to the park. Oregon State Parks is working on improving trails and facilities , but currently there are no ADA compliant trails or viewpoints. There are three ADA-compliant tent campsites The Hike I visited Smith Rock State Park on a windy mid-week spring morning, and I would say the park was at about ½ capacity based on the number of available parking spots. I wandered around slowly without too much crowding or trail user conflict, but it would have been much more difficult if the park was busier – the trails are narrow, and stepping off the trail is rightly discouraged to protect the sensitive habitat. The viewpoints from the parking level are generally narrow as well and either located right along the trail with a barrier or off the trail along the cliff with a steep drop off. I was disappointed that I could only visit the rim. I wanted to go down to the canyon, but the paved trail is very steep – I could only walk down a few feet before I felt unsafe, so I didn’t even get to take an accurate measurement of the grade. According to AllTrails , it drops 200 feet in under 0.2 mile, with a max grade of 40%. But if you can make down, there are several trail options that are fairly level. There are two level trails at the rim: the North Point loop and the Rim Rock Trail. Both offer incredible views of the surrounding rocks and down into the canyon, but they each present their own accessibility challenges. The beginning of the North Point Trail with a sign for the Homestead Trail on the right. Gravel trail surrounded by tall sage and small juniper trees with rocks rising in the background. North Point Loop: One-spoon difficulty. 0.5 mile, no elevation change, loose large gravel surface, steep edges. The trail starts at the turnaround parking area at the end of the road into the park, near two accessible parking spots. It travels through sage and juniper along the north point of the rim, leading out to incredible views of the river gorge and surrounding rocks. Be very careful as you approach the edge of the rim – the basalt rock columns are not connected, there are many gaps, and no barriers with a very steep drop off. If you experience vertigo or have problems with balance, you may want to stay well back from the edge. I enjoyed taking in the silence punctuated by the sounds of geese and the buzz and flash of hummingbirds. The trail loops to the right, and there is one bench in the shade with views out towards the opposite ridge. The trail is well defined and edged with rocks; it is approximately 3 feet wide and the surface is loose gravel rocks, occasionally a couple of inches deep. Wheel-users could have difficulty traveling on the loose, uneven surface. The loop ends back at the parking area between two standard parking spots with no defined exit space, so you may need to squeeze between cars. The North Point amphitheater is to the left of the loop trail. This is a paved path, but the surface is uneven and cracked and you can’t see much above the rock wall. There is a viewpoint at the western edge of the Turnaround Parking lot with 15-minute parallel parking. There are nice views looking back across the park, and the wooden barrier does not block the views from sitting height. Paved trail leading down to the canyon. Bench in the shade on the North Point Trail overlooking the ridge. Rim Rock Trail: Two-spoon difficulty. 0.5 mile point-to-point, no elevation change, loose pea gravel and boardwalk surface. You can begin this trail from behind the welcome center, the RV parking lot, or the Bivouac parking lot. The Rim Rock Trail follows the rim of the canyon, with views down to the river and across to the climbing rocks. I began from the RV lot, traveling left down a slight grade of 2-5% before curving sharply left at the first viewpoint. There are a few benches placed along the trail, with wooden barriers that partially block the view from sitting height. While it was interesting to watch the rock climbers, I personally enjoyed the many raptors soaring above the canyon and around their nests. The rocks are incredibly striking and there are views all the way out to the Cascade mountains. The trail continues to curve left beyond the first viewpoint, and here there are a couple of steeper grades on loose pea gravel – I wasn’t able to measure, but I estimate they are around 10%, up to 20 feet long. You then cross a bridge with a step down on the opposite side, take a switchback with another steep grade, and cross a boardwalk with a two inch rise. The trail is generally three feet wide with loose pea gravel surface. Viewpoint along the Rim Rock Trail. Overall, I am glad I visited Smith Rock State Park, even if I wasn’t able to enjoy as much of it as I hoped. The views are astounding, and it felt very peaceful. The sun and wind felt wonderful on that spring day, but be aware there is very little shade anywhere in the park (with the exception of a shaded picnic area near the welcome center) and temperatures can rise to 100 degrees in the summer. I am sure I would have been more frustrated if I visited on a busy day; I recommend going early during the week if you can. Hopefully the park will continue efforts to improve accessibility. It would be nice if there was some kind of shuttle service for disabled folks down to the canyon, if an exception can be made to the motorized use rule that would open up many more options for people who can’t navigate the steep climb. I hope to return to do a full assessment of the park and trails. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: State Parks Pass/Entrance Fee Getting There: The park is easy to find using GPS. From Hwy 97 in Terrebonne, head east on Smith Rock Way. Turn left on 1st St, left on Crooked River Dr, and follow that into the park. There are three main parking areas, an overflow area, and vertical and parallel parking along the road in the park. Accessible parking is limited. Restrooms with accessible stalls are available. Cell signal is decent. Nearby Alternatives: Coming Soon Land Acknowledgement: this is the traditional lands of the Northern Paiute and Warm Springs people, who hold extensive legends about the place now known as Smith Rock.

Big Creek Nature Trail The Rundown Spoon Rating: 2 Distance: 0.6 miles Elevation Change: 40 ft. Typical Surface: packed pea gravel Typical Width: 4 ft Nearest Town: Hoodsport, WA. Cell Phone Reception: Spotty Amenities: accessible toilets, potable water, accessible parking, picnic tables Why go? The accessible portion of the Upper Big Creek Loop Trail, sometimes referred to as the Big Creek Nature Trail, is truly a gem. It offers a rare opportunity to travel through mature second growth rainforest, surrounded by towering mossy trees, the sounds of flowing water, and a little bit of solitude while still close to amenities and other people. This trail is located very close to Hoodsport, WA, in the Big Creek Campground, Olympic National Forest. It is the traditional lands of the Skokomish. The Hike The gate to the campground is closed during the winter but visitors may still access the trails. There is a footpath near the gate leading into the campground but you may prefer to take the road in. There is a paved 4 foot wide path around the gate, suitable for wheelchairs. It is approximately 0.25 mile from the gate to the trailhead all on a gradual incline of approximately 5%. The road into campground starts paved on a gentle grade. After passing the campground loop trail and the campground host site, the road becomes gravel. Curve left past a broad gravel parking area with a fee station and restrooms. At the fork, continue straight following signs towards the north loop. Watch out for some loose gravel and potholes. Crest a hill past site 42 and look for the restrooms on the left with one accessible parking spot and one regular gravel parking spot. Map of the Big Creek Campground. The trail is indicated by dotted lines beginning at a trailhead and restroom icon just above site 42. The trail starts behind the restrooms near site 42. Follow the wide, loose gravel path to the left behind the restroom, as it immediately curves left to a 8-10% incline for approximately 50 feet. Turn right at the ‘T’ where the trail meets with another path then take another 6-8% incline for 20 feet. You then come to a fork with a sign pointing to Upper Big Creek Loop Trail, Big Creek Campground Trail, and Mount Elinor Connector Trail. Continue straight on the Upper Big Creek Loop Trail heading towards the bridge. There is short decline of 8-10% for 50 feet, then a very slight rise for 5 feet to bridge. It is level going onto bridge. There are a couple of boards on the other side with a 2-inch rise, but you can navigate around them easily. The bridge is a marvelous construction over rushing Big Creek; it’s very sturdy with parallel boards and wood slat barriers on either side. The barriers somewhat block the view from sitting height. On the other side of the bridge, the trail surface is hard-packed pea gravel, a very firm surface to travel on, and is 3 feet wide. The trail declines slightly then curves left. You will almost immediately come to a couple of roots rising about 2 inches above the surface. The trail crew plans to cover these, but for now they could be bypassed with very careful maneuvering. Traveling amongst towering mossy trees, the trail declines at 8-10% for approximately 75 feet as it curves to the right. It levels out briefly with a resting area on the left then curves sharply right again on a decline of 5%. The trail then levels out and passes between tall western red cedar before curving left and onto a small bridge over a seasonal water flow. The surface onto the bridge is level. On the other side of the bridge, the trail curves to the left on a 5% grade, continues level, then curves right between old growth cedar. Curve left and right again then come to a 20-feet long 10% decline, getting steeper near the bottom at 15% for a few feet. The trail continues to curve a few times amongst mature cedar and tall mossy maples in a gorgeous rainforest setting. The Big Creek Nature Trail passing between three tall western red cedar. Fall leaves are scattered on the trail and the grass in a mossy forest The wooden bridge over Big Creek. A gravel trail on a slight incline leads to the bridge. Two boards are slightly above the surface of the trail. Tall narrow trees are in the background. The wooden boardwalk after the turnpike. A hard-packed gravel trail leads onto the boardwalk in the center of the photo. It extends towards a cedar in the background. A hill is on the right At 0.2 miles, come to a small log bench on the right that blocks the old trail. You will continue on a level, hard packed gravel trail that was recently built by the Mt Rose Trail Crew. Travel on a slightly crowned turnpike with a large fallen log on left and a small ditch on the right then onto a level boardwalk. The trail curves left around a western red cedar, then right and left around a hill with a 8-10% grade for 20 feet. It then continues level as you travel parallel to the creek before coming to a fork; the upper loop trail continues right. To continue on the accessible trail, go left on a slight decline for 5 feet. You’ll arrive at a beautiful resting spot next to the creek with a bench. The bench sits 16 inches above the ground and has an angled backrest with no armrests. There isn’t a lot of space to turn around in a chair, but you could back out slightly and turn around. This is end of the accessible portion of the trail; turn back the way you came to return to the parking area. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: Interagency America the Beautiful pass or Forest Service pass required to park at campground. You can park at the pull outs along the road and enter without a pass. Getting There: The Big Creek Nature Trail is located in the Big Creek Campground, 9 miles from Hoodsport, WA. From Hoodsport, take Highway 101 to State Route 119 and turn left (west). This two-lane paved road has sections of curves with speed limits of 25-45mph through residential and forest areas. The road comes to a T-section with Forest Service Road 24; turn left and then an immediate right into the campground. There is one ADA accessible spot in a paved parking area in front of the gate, with four total spots. There is additional parking along FR 24 on pullouts. Two parking spots, including one accessible spot, at the restroom nearest the trailhead. Potable water is available in the campground during the season Nearby Alternatives: Forest Service Road 24 continues to Lake Cushman and the Staircase area of Olympic National Park, with gorgeous views along the way Land Acknowledgement: his is the land of the sqʷuqʷóbəš [Twana/Skokomish], “People of the River”, whose traditional territory included the entire Hood Canal drainage basin in western Washington. Trail Map The map, GPS track, and elevation profile of Big Creek Nature Trail. It indicates one way of travel. The map is at the top with a red line for the trail. Elevation profile at the bottom. Stats above read Distance: 0.3 mi Elevation gain: 6 ft Moving time 0:15:11

This wonderful oasis in the city is very accessible! The 9.5 acre garden has approximately one mile of trails and paths that can completed in a variety of loops. It is home to an incredible display of rhododendron and azalea which bloom in late spring – early summer, but there is much to appreciate year-round. It is a prime spot for birds and wildlife, there is a spring-fed lake with a fountain, three waterfalls, and many benches to rest and enjoy the beauty. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden The Rundown Spoon Rating: 1 Distance: 0.5 miles Elevation Change: 25 ft. Typical Surface: Paved, wood, packed pea gravel Typical Width: 4 ft Nearest Town: Portland, OR. Cell Phone Reception: Excellent Amenities: Restrooms, potable water, accessible parking, benches. Pets are allowed on leash Special Notes: There is no fully wheelchair accessible path to the restrooms, and the porta potty is difficult to access Why go? The 9.5 acre garden has over a mile of trails and paths that can completed in a variety of loops; all are generally accessible, but only about 0.5 mile are wheelchair accessible. This nature oasis in the city is home to an incredible display of rhododendron and azalea which bloom in late spring – early summer, but there is much to appreciate year-round. It is a prime spot for birds and wildlife, there is a spring-fed lake with a fountain, three waterfalls, and many benches to rest and enjoy the beauty. It is a wonderful spot to get out and explore your comfort level with being outdoors, or to just enjoy on a low-spoon day. The Hike The entrance station is located about 50 feet from the accessible parking spots. The check-in window is at 36 inches - currently, the entrance fee is $9 unless you qualify for the Community Access Program; see below for information. Beyond the entrance, a concrete path leads downhill with grades of 2-8%, to a large landing with a bench before curving right and continuing on a generally 5% decline to a low rock wall and bench with plenty of space to gather. From here, if you go left you will take another decline to a waterfall and a pond. This path is steep at over 10% grade with some cracking asphalt. It then curves right, crosses a short wooden footbridge with edge guards, and then takes a 5-8% incline and connects with the main path on the other side of the high bridge. For the most wheelchair accessible route, I recommend continuing straight from the rock bench and gathering area. Cross the "High Bridge." This wooden bridge is level and with stable but slightly bumpy boards with a maximum ¾” gap. After this bridge the path continues paved with 2-6% grades. It curves to the right, passing underneath rhododendron, then curves to the left again before crossing evenly onto an 8-foot long section of slightly loose pea gravel then returning to a paved surface. 1/10 mile from the entrance, you arrive at the large main bridge over the lake. A portion of the ADA accessible ramp from the entrance. There are handrails and stone wall barriers. The "Low Bridge" is approximately 1/10 mile long, with several pull-outs and observations spots over the lake. There are also benches on either side to sit and rest. An interpretative sign describes some of the birds and wildlife you may see. There is no shade over the bridge, so bring sun protection if you plan to linger here. The bridge has several rotting boards with holes up to 2 inches deep and 1-2 inches wide, but you can navigate around them if it isn't busy. There is a 1-2 inch threshold on the other wise of the bridge as it transitions to gravel. Beyond the bridge, the path becomes firm, compact pea gravel and makes a variety of loops around the "Island" and the Meadow. While these paths generally level, wheelchair users should proceed with caution due to some steep grades, cross slopes, and roots. The most accessible route is to continue forward following the water, past the first path on the left which rises steeply at a 14% incline. There is then a steep 6-7% cross slope, sloping toward the lake with no edge guard, so be careful if you are using a wheelchair. Take the third path curving to the left and then go right towards the grassy area following the sign to the restroom. The restroom has one all user accessible stall. The sink has a push button activation next to the faucet that may be difficult to reach. There are also gendered restrooms. The most accessible path back from the restrooms is to retrace the way you came. The other paths across the Island and meadow have short sections of 8-10% grade, but they are worth exploring if you can. The main bridge over the lake. The photo shows several rotten boards with gaps. A small dog stands across them for perspective. A gravel path with a steep cross slope next to the lake. A digital level is placed on the path, reading 6.3%. Another wheelchair accessible option is the Peninsula and Woodland Garden. After the High Bridge (the first bridge when you enter the garden), take the first gravel path on the right. The trail forks - stay to the right. Several trails connect both sides of the loop. I recommend taking the last one before the trail curves sharply right - there is a 10% grade at the curve in the loop. There are some views of the Lagoon and Fern Wall from here. Unfortunately, the only access to that area is via stairs or a steep trail. Trail Map Map of the Garden with the most accessible routes highlighted. Finding the Trailhead Hours: General admission fee is $9 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for youth (6-18) and free for children five and under. Community Access Program that is pay-what-you-wish 7 days a week with an Oregon Trail Card/SNAP EBT, WIC, TANF, REF/RCA, or TriMet Honored Citizen card. Annual passes are available. Getting There: Address: 5801 SE 28th Avenue, Portland, Oregon near Reed College at the intersection of SE 28th Ave and SE Woodstock Blvd. This is a well-established neighborhood in the heart of southeast Portland. Parking: A paved parking area has two accessible parking spots and space for approximately 30 vehicles. If the parking lot is full, street parking is available in the adjacent neighborhood, but you may need to travel across some hills. Public Transit: The closest Trimet bus stops are 6400 (Westbound Bus 19) and 7286 (Eastbound Bus 19) approximately 1 block away. Bus route 19 is accessible from the Orange Line. Land Acknowledgement: This is the traditional territory of the Clackamas Chinook and others whose lands are now a part of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Treaty Areas. Much of the Willamette Valley was ceded in the 1855 Treaty with the Confederated Tribes of the Willamette Valley. The people of the Willamette valley were forced to march to the Grand Ronde Reservation. The Grand Ronde Tribe’s federal recognition was later terminated in 1954 until 1983, when the Tribe won restoration and regained a small portion of their homelands. Pass/Entry Fee: Please refer to the Garden's website for current information . Operating hours vary by the season.

S. Fork Hoh to Big Flat The Rundown Spoon Rating: 5 Distance: 7 miles Elevation Change: unlisted Typical Surface: various Typical Width: various Nearest Town: Forks, WA. Cell Phone Reception: unlisted Amenities: unlisted The Hike In late May 2018, I hiked 4.5 of the 7 mile South Fork Hoh to Big Flat trail. While it is one of the easier backcountry trails with a few short elevation changes, there were many obstacles and places of loose footing, a couple of stream crossings and one creek crossing over cascading water. The trail starts out with a steep descent into second growth, and then enters old growth forest in the Olympic National Park wilderness. It crosses a couple of streams as it moves deeper into the forest, and then crosses a creek with boulders and cascading water, before skirting along a hillside with the sound of flowing water all around you. The trail changes from dirt and rocks to smooth river silt as you enter Big Flat, a level area with giant Big Leaf Maples and Sitka Spruce all around you. Eventually you hear the Hoh, and the trail meets the river before climbing a hill again. This is where I turned around. The trees are magnificent and stately. I heard a Northern Spotted Owl! I also saw a bear on the drive up, and only two pairs of hikers on the trail. A very rewarding hike, but definitely a 5-spoon difficulty. Left Image Description: A stream with a log sitting in it. Right Image Description: A stream along the trail. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: Unlisted Getting There: To reach the trailhead, turn at the sign for the Hoh-Clearwater State Forest on Highway 101 south of the the turnoff for the Hoh Rainforest. You’ll drive around 15 miles on gravel road through logging areas. It can be confusing, but there are good directions on the Washington Trails Association website. Google also actually got me there. Nearby Alternatives: Coming Soon Land Acknowledgement: Ancestral lands of the Hoh and Quinault people Trail Map Image Description: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.

McLane Creek Trail in the Capitol State Forest offers a beautiful sanctuary just 30 minutes from downtown Olympia. This nature trail travels through wetland and forest and follows a pond and a creek where visitors may see beaver, salmon, yellow pond lily, and a myriad of other plants and wildlife. It is a 1.5-mile bisected loop trail. The first portion is wheelchair accessible; the entire trail is mostly level and there are many benches along the way. McLane Creek Nature Trail The Rundown Spoon Rating: 1 - 1.5 Distance: 1.5 miles total; 0.6 and 1.1 mile loops Elevation Change: Less than 50 ft. Typical Surface: Boardwalk, compact gravel, natural Typical Width: 3 ft Nearest Town: Olympia, WA. Cell Phone Reception: Pretty good Amenities: Wheelchair accessible for ¼ mile on boardwalk and compact gravel. Trail Map. Why go? McLane Creek Trail in the Capitol State Forest offers a beautiful sanctuary just 30 minutes from downtown Olympia. This nature trail travels through wetland and forest and follows a pond and a creek where visitors may see beaver, salmon, yellow pond lily, and a myriad of other plants and wildlife. It is a 1.5-mile bisected loop trail, with options for a 0.6 mile loop and a 1.1 mile loop. The first portion is wheelchair accessible; the entire trail is mostly level and there are many benches along the way. The trail is undergoing improvements, so the surface and design may change from this writing. The Hike The trail starts near the picnic shelter. The wheelchair accessible path is to the left, closer to the parking area. The walking path starts closer to the shelter; it is narrow but level, and brings you to an additional viewing platform before connecting with the accessible path. The accessible path is wide, crushed gravel and follows the edge of the parking area before passing the accessible pit toilet and curving to the right. It continues on then comes to an accessible viewing platform over the pond made of the lateral wood boards with a bench at the end. The boardwalk trail continues to the left for 100 feet along the pond before transitioning to gravel and coming to a fiberglass boardwalk with an accessible-grade gravel incline on either side (I did not measure, and it felt a bit on the steep side, but it is supposedly an accessible improvement). The trail then becomes worn compact gravel and passes narrowly between two trees before coming to the fork for the bisected loop. There is a bench here. The right fork is the Old Railroad Grade trail which bisects the loop forming a 0.6 mile trail. It is primarily boardwalk along the pond and is not wheelchair accessible, but offers up close views of wildlife (see below for full description). I recommend taking the fork straight ahead. To the left is a large viewing platform over the creek where you can see salmon in the spawning season. Travel on a short boardwalk covered in lateral metal slats over wood (for traction and people with low vision, but they are raised slightly so watch your wheels/step), that then drops about 2” to a compact gravel surface. There is a bench in this lovely grove of western red cedar. Continue a few feet to the ramp to the viewing platform. It is lined with benches so you can enjoy some time here. Head back to the fork and continue the loop to the left. The boardwalk continues about 100 feet. There is one area where the boardwalk has collapsed from tree damage; it is slightly unstable and is a sudden, decline so be careful but it is passable. There is then a pullout with a bench. This is the end of the boardwalk; the trail then widens and becomes compact gravel and natural surface, with some areas where trail building material is exposed that may present a trip hazard, so be careful. The trail continues to follow the creek then curves to the right; a short path on the left leads to another viewing platform and bench at the creek beneath western red cedar. There is a 2” inch rise to the platform and the boards are a bit uneven. Continue on the trail among western red cedar, douglas fir, devil’s club, and other iconic PNW plants. Come to a short bridge with a 1-2” rise over a seasonal water flow. The trail then becomes natural surface and there are some muddy areas, a couple of dips, and a few low roots. Pass several remarkable and character-filled tree stumps as the trail widens with a couple of larger roots in the middle. Come to another bridge with a 2” rise and 1” gap between the boards. The trail narrows again and there are several 2-3” roots in the path. There is another bridge with a 2” rise before the trail rolls slightly and comes to a short, narrow boardwalk and another path on the left. The path on the left leads about 100 feet to a viewing bridge over the creek. It is narrow and winds among the trees with exposed trail material and roots, but there are benches. A set of 7 stairs lead to a fiberglass bridge that ends at a bench (it does not continue across the creek). It is a nice spot to sit under the trees with the creek flowing underneath. Back at the main trail, continue left to a narrow boardwalk covered in slip resistant tread. In about 100 yards there is a pullout with no bench then the boardwalk ends at an intersection. To the right is the Old Railroad Grade trail that bisects the loop – this is the 0.6 mile loop. A set of 7 stairs lead up to a boardwalk that follows the pond. There is a sudden hump then the boardwalk travels a short distance to a viewing platform with benches. The platform has a 2” rise and had some unstable boards. The path then becomes compact gravel and rocks for 50 feet; there is a 6” root in the trail here. There is another boardwalk with a pullout before ending at the first intersection you encountered on the trail. Go left to the parking area. The fork straight ahead continues the 1.1 mile loop (and meets the Forestry Trail, a longer 3-spoon hike). Take two 6” steps to a bridge and then a slight decline to a gravel trail. The trail dips and then forks; continue to the right on a steep decline of about 20 paces. The trail narrows and rolls then curves to the left. There are several areas of mud and roots as the trail curves to the left, following the border of the forest around the pond. The path curves slightly to the right then comes to a short, steep cross-slope as it rises slightly. There is then a short fork on the right to a small viewing platform with two tall steps. The trail continues to the left and becomes gravel with a couple of roots. There is a bench just before it curves again with a steep cross-slope. You then come to a bridge over the pond with two steps on either side. The trail rises on slightly loose gravel before it ends at the parking area and the shelter. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: Washington Discover Pass (disability placards are not eligible for exemption on DNR land) Getting There: The address for GPS is 5044 Delphi Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98512. Delphi Rd is a two lane, paved semi-rural road. The entrance to the park is slightly hidden, but there are signs; look for a clear-cut area. Follow the one-lane paved forest road a short distance until it ends at the main parking area. There is paved and gravel parking for approximately 20 cars, with one accessible parking space. There are accessible pit toilets. No potable water. Nearby Alternatives: Coming Soon Land Acknowledgement: This is Coast Salish land. The Upper Chehalis (Q̉ʷay̓áyiłq̉) or Tsihalis people (People of the Sands) had a large village (skwah-YAI’lh-hahbch) at the head of Eld Inlet at Mud Bay.

The trail descends about 3/10 mile to a level area at a sharp curve overlooking the sea – this is a good place to stop and take in the view, but there are no places to sit — and then descends steeply again for another 3/10 mile before leveling out. Here the trail forks. Straight ahead is a level 1/4 mile spur trail along a redwood-lined creek that was very peaceful. To the right is access to the ocean; follow this path briefly before coming to another junction. Partington Cove Trail, Big Sur The Rundown Spoon Rating: 4 Distance: 1 Elevation Change: 280 ft. Typical Surface: Dirt road Typical Width: varied Nearest Town: Lucia, CA Cell Phone Reception: None Amenities: unlisted The Hike The Big Sur coast is lined with trails that start at pull-offs from Highway 1. Partington Cove is one such trail. The trail starts at a metal gate on the ocean side of the highway, and descends steeply down the hillside. It is an old dirt access road, and many of the guides I found suggested that the trail is well maintained, but at my visit in January 2020 I encountered deep ruts from runoff. I had to step widely or hop across some of them, and generally found myself zig-zagging my way down the trail. There are incredible views of the surrounding mountains and coastline from the trail. The trail descends about 3/10 mile to a level area at a sharp curve overlooking the sea – this is a good place to stop and take in the view, but there are no places to sit — and then descends steeply again for another 3/10 mile before leveling out. Here the trail forks. Straight ahead is a level 1/4 mile spur trail along a redwood-lined creek that was very peaceful. To the right is access to the ocean; follow this path briefly before coming to another junction. At this junction, the right spur leads to a very short, steep and potentially slippery path to a beach. The beach is lined with boulders and waves crash into the cove; it was a thrilling experience, and there are many rocks to sit on, but be aware of potential wave danger. The left path leads to Partington Cove. Cross a bridge over the creek and then the trail curves and enters a 60-foot-long tunnel – the tunnel is over 6 feet high and 7 feet wide, the level path covered with packed gravel. Exiting the tunnel, you will be on a narrow trail high on the cliff with a wooden barrier on one side. Look down and slightly behind you to see the place where boats would land in the cove. Follow this path for about 100 feet; at the end is a bench and open exposure to the cliffs, coastline, and sea. The views are quite remarkable. This area is all rocky cliff side, so be careful about venturing too far if you don’t have sure footing. When you’re ready, head back through the tunnel, over the bridge, take a right at the junction and then a left at the next, and start the climb back up the hill. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: None. Getting There: Partington Cove is located at mile marker 38 on Highway 1, at a broad curve with a metal barrier. Parking is in pull outs located on both sides of the highway. While there is room for lots of cars, it can still fill up quickly. By 11am on a January weekend, the pull outs were getting full. There were no restroom facilities or water sources. Nearby Alternatives: Coming Soon Land Acknowledgement: The land known as Big Sur is home to the Esselen people of the Ohlone Costanoan Esselen Nation . This land was colonized by Spanish and European settlers. The Esselen have been fighting for land rights and federal recognition, and recently received a grant to purchase ancestral lands near Big Sur Trail Map Image Description: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.

We are committed to making the outdoors accessible. Our rating system provides unique information not found anywhere else to help you have the most memorable and safe experience possible. Spoon Trail Rating System Our Rating System We are committed to making the outdoors accessible. Our rating system provides unique information not found anywhere else to help you have the most memorable and safe experience possible. How It Works To help you make the most of your outdoor adventure, we provide key information in 6 different areas. Spoon Rating Conditions Getting There Elevation Amenities Segments Spoon Trail Rating System The hallmark of our trail rating process is the Spoon Rating, used to identify how much effort a trail might take. The rating system is based in an understanding of spoon theory and offers a representation of how accessible a hike is and how much effort it may take with consideration for how replenishing the experience may be. You may think of it as a combination accessibility, difficulty, and quality rating. Because everyone's ability and energy is variable and unique, we cannot guarantee our spoon rating is the same as yours. The rating and trail information is meant to help you decide whether to attempt a trail. Wheelchair accessibility is included as a factor, and expanded to consider different types of wheelchairs and different wheelchair users. 1 Spoon = 0-2 miles, level and even with grades under 8%, paved, very easy to navigate, probably wheelchair accessible 2 Spoons = 1-3 miles, short grades up to 12%, firm but unpaved surface with no obstacles, access takes a little planning, probably wheelchair hikeable 3 Spoons = 2-4 miles, generally gentle elevation changes with short grades up to 20%, firm surface with minimal obstacles, possibly wheelchair hikeable 4 Spoons = 3-5 miles, Prolonged grades of 10-15%; elevation changes over 500 ft or longer than .5 mile; soft surface with obstacles, requires advance planning or basic trail map reading 5 Spoons = 5+ miles, Prolonged grades of 15-20%, elevation changes 1000 ft or longer than 1 mile, trail has many obstacles, requires extensive planning or navigation Want more information on how our rating system works? A full description is available in The Disabled Hiker's Guide books. The Spoon Rating, our trail guides, and associated materials are copyrighted material, and the intellectual property of Syren Nagakyrie. Please do not copy, duplicate, create iterative works, or otherwise use these resources without permission.

Elk Creek Conservation Area is my favorite hike in Forks, Washington.The 255-acre conservation area offers beautiful riparian forest, a soothing creek, and abundant plant and wildlife. If you are looking for a quiet place to be with the temperate rainforest of the Olympic Peninsula, Elk Creek would be a great choice. The trail also gets my vote for best interpretive signs, which entreat the hiker to experience the forest with many senses. Elk Creek Conservation Area The Rundown Spoon Rating: 3 Distance: 2-3 miles Elevation Change: Not Listed Typical Surface: Packed gravel, earth, rock Typical Width: 4 ft Nearest Town: Forks, WA. Cell Phone Reception: Spotty at trailhead, no reception on trail except at the bench on the top of the hill (tested on Verizon). Amenities: Unlisted Why go? Elk Creek Conservation Area is my favorite hike in Forks, Washington. Owned by the North Olympic Land Trust, Elk Creek is a treasure of protected habitat. The 255-acre conservation area offers beautiful riparian forest, a soothing creek, and abundant plant and wildlife. If you are looking for a quiet place to be with the temperate rainforest of the Olympic Peninsula, Elk Creek would be a great choice. The trail also gets my vote for best interpretive signs, which entreat the hiker to experience the forest with many senses. The Hike The Trail of the Senses, as the trail through the Elk Creek area is called, is a “lollipop” trail. The trail goes out for 1 mile before crossing a 65-foot long footbridge and entering a 1-mile loop. If you complete the loop it is a 3-mile hike, if you opt to only go out and back it is 2-miles. The trail is a combination of packed gravel, earth and rocks, and is wide, but can be a little muddy in a few places. You’ll ascend a hill through changes of forested land, then descend into a truly magical creekside forest. The trail begins at the gravel parking area with an interpretive sign and basic map of the trail. A gravel path leads past a wooden sign reading Elk Creek Conservation Area and into the woods. Begin walking on the level gravel road through replanted forest, keep to the right at the first fork, then to the left at the grove of alder trees. Here you will go up a switchback and begin the elevation gain; the switchback is approximately ramp grade. You will then walk about 40 paces up the steepest grade of the trail (about 10%, I’d say) and reach the top of the hill. There is a bench here to rest and enjoy the transition to older forest. You will then descend again about 20 paces and come to a boardwalk. This boardwalk is level with one step and the 44 planks are tightly placed, but it can be a little slippery. Descend another 20 paces on a slope with some erosion control fabric (I usually walk a bit sideways on this one for traction). You’ll then be at the creek in secluded forest. A somewhat steep section of dirt trail, with trees on the left and a hill descending on the right. A small dog looks ahead to the trail. A boardwalk with round logs on either side crossing a stream channel. A footbridge spans the creek. Three steps lead up to the bridge with railing on one side. Go left at the T and take a moment at The Sisters, two 200-year old Sitka Spruce. Continue walking through spruce, cedar, and hemlock, huge old stumps now nursing new growth, and look for one of the many places to go sit by the creek. Look for signs of salmon and trout, listen for the many birds, and perhaps you’ll even spot the elk that this creek is named for (though don’t get too close if you do). Also, be watchful for tree roots and rocks sticking up from the trail, there are a couple of places where you will need to step over them. At the second visible creek bend you will come to a small hill; go to the left and then the second trail section up (the left path in this photo). a small hill with a path forking around trees. The other two sections are a little steeper and/or have more roots or other barriers, but they are passable. Next, you’ll come to a set of three steps, which are made of earth blocked up with roots and wood. Some traction control has been cut into the wood, and you step down either onto a slightly muddy area or onto a piece of wood over it. Here the seasonal tributaries to the creek cut closely to the trail. Drainage work has been done and I frequently see people working on channels. There is one place where water seems to always cross the trail; depending upon rain levels it is a small flow of water easily stepped over, or it splits into several deeper flows and the area gets rather soggy. If you are especially concerned about muddy, soggy spots then I would avoid it in the heaviest of the rainy season, otherwise it shouldn’t be a problem. The wetlands here are full of Western Skunk Cabbage, one of my favorite early signs of spring. Their bright yellow flowers rising from the swamp are a real joy, and the scent is certainly unmistakable. Continue along the mostly level trail with the sounds of the creek to one side and hills rising on the other. There are some very interesting old growth stumps. There is one that I call the “spooky tree” and another that is my “forest troll friend” – let me know if you can guess which ones they are. You will come to the place where a footbridge will take you across the creek and to the end loop of the trail. The footbridge is a cedar log cut smooth and is a bit narrow, with rough-hewn railing on one side and metal netting for traction. On your side will be a short ramp to walk onto the bridge, on the other are three steep, rough steps. The bridge sways and bounces a bit as you cross it. Generally speaking, the trail on the other side is muddier than the rest. It also has several elevation changes and steep and slippery places. It loops through younger forest on the other side of the creek; it provides a couple of views from above and there is one place where you feel pretty secluded in the forest with the creek on either side. But to be honest, I wouldn’t say it is as remarkable as the rest of the trail, so if you don’t want to cross the bridge, don’t feel like you are missing out. Before you come to the bridge there is a sign for a horse ford, and this is a nice easy place to get down right on the gravel creek bed and explore a bit. If you do cross the bridge, Follow the trail as it curves to the right, and then I recommend starting the loop from the right side. This will put you going uphill for the steepest slope, which is short but slippery and eroding through roots on the trail (it is easier for me to get traction going uphill but make the choice that is best for you). There are a couple of short boardwalks, the first is one step up from round logs onto 21 unevenly spaced planks. As you reach the top of the loop and curve back to return, you will hear a tributary coming down from the hill that has folded you into the forest. Keep going and then you will come to the short, steep section; carefully make your way up and then back down, and you’ll return to the main trail to cross the bridge again. If you need a rest on the way back before heading back up the hill, there is a lovely shelter with benches just past The Sisters on the left. Instead of turning right at the trail intersection, continue straight and follow the footpath to the shelter. Finding the Trailhead Public transportation option: From the Forks Transit Center board the 17/Forks Shuttle. Get off at Calawah Way at Elk Corner Road, located at the beginning of the right curve. Continue walking 350 feet to the parking area and trailhead. Getting There: From downtown Forks, head north on Forks Ave / Hwy 101. Turn right on Calawah Way (at the emergency signal which may or may not be working). Continue on this two-lane paved residential road to a sharp left curve and then a right curve; be prepared to turn into the parking area. The small gravel parking area is on the right at the end of the curve. Pull in on the right side. Nearby Alternatives: For a short, level walk through the forest, try the Nature Trail at the Forks Visitor Center (guide published soon). Land Acknowledgement: Elk Creek Conservation Area is on traditional Quileute Nation land.

The Sandy River Delta is an extremely popular recreation site about 20 minutes east of Portland, a haven for people and dogs from the surrounding cities. This restored wetland and forest ecosystem is also a haven for birds and wildlife, and is traditional hunting, fishing, and gathering grounds of the Upper Chinook people. The Confluence Trail travels the length of the delta, with nice views of Wy’east (Mount Hood) and the Sandy River and Columbia River confluence ecosystem. Confluence Trail The Rundown Spoon Rating: 2; wheelchair hikeable Distance: 2.5 miles Elevation Change: 20 ft. Typical Surface: Pea gravel, natural, boardwalk Typical Width: 4 ft Nearest Town: Troutdale, OR. Cell Phone Reception: Spotty Amenities: Toilets, picnic tables; pet friendly Why go? The Sandy River Delta is an extremely popular recreation site about 20 minutes east of Portland, a haven for people and dogs from the surrounding cities. This restored wetland and forest ecosystem is also a haven for birds and wildlife, and is traditional hunting, fishing, and gathering grounds of the Upper Chinook people. The Confluence Trail travels the length of the delta, with nice views of Wy’east (Mount Hood) and the Sandy River and Columbia River confluence ecosystem. It ends at an elliptical bird blind designed by Maya Lin, a work of art in itself. An audio tour is also available from the Confluence Project. The Hike Start at the information sign by the toilets. Follow the paved path then transfer to a compact gravel surface and curve left then right, following a sign that reads “to the confluence bird blind by Maya Lin”. There are a few rocks on an approximately 5% decline and a bit of a steep cross slope as you’re curving left to access the trail. The trail begins with four vertical wood poles that are 32 inches apart to block motorized use on the trail, but also make it a bit of a tight squeeze if you’re using a wheelchair or walker. Pass between the poles then take a 2% incline for about 30 feet, continuing on compact pea gravel. The trail continues generally level and even at four feet wide. You are traveling through open grassland with lots of cottonwood trees along the trail, but not a lot of shade. The pea gravel may be a little loose and deep at around 0.25 mile. At 0.3 mile, there is a big oak tree for shade but no bench. At 0.4 miles there’s a 2% incline then the trail rolls slightly. Horsetail, lupine and other wild flowers line the trail. At 0.6 miles, there is an 8% incline for approximately 30 feet before it levels out and crosses the Meadow Trail. Continue straight ahead on the compact gravel trail, passing a sign that points to the Confluence Bird Blind. There’s a short 5% cross slope as you crossover a drainage area. A typical section of the Confluence Trail. This is where it crosses the Meadow Trail. It is open and sunny with trees in the background. At 1.0 mile, you enter the forest and there is an interpretive sign on the right about this area as traditional hunting, fishing and gathering grounds. The trail gets a little uneven as the surface becomes a mix of slightly eroded compact gravel and natural surface. Take a 5% decline on a potentially muddy surface then curve left and pass under some low hanging branches. The surface becomes mostly natural and may be a little muddy and soft, but it is nice and shaded here. Take a 5% incline for about 10 feet. At 1.1 miles, you come to an area that may have deep mud (I visited in June 2021 and there was about a half an inch of mud). The side channel of the Sandy River is on the left, with a few pretty viewpoints. Take a 3% incline for about 30 feet and continue on a potentially slightly muddy trail. At 1.2 miles, there’s a section that may have standing water and/or mud in the middle of the trail. The trail width has been widened from people bypassing it, and it would be impassable with a standard wheelchair. At 1.3 miles, come to a 2% incline followed by a 2% decline with a 5% cross slope. Curve left and pass an interpretive sign on the right. The trail branches off to a couple of footpaths, but just follow the main trail and you’ll come to a boardwalk. There are three small rises onto the boardwalk. The first one is less than half an inch, the second one is a little under an inch, and the third one is an inch and a half. The boardwalk is a 2% incline with metal barriers on both sides, leading to the bird blind. The four wood poles at the start of the Confluence Trail, with a 32″ gap in between. The wide, muddy section of trail with standing water in the center. There are some exposed roots on both sides of the trail. The start of the boardwalk that leads to the bird blind. Not the exposed rises onto the boardwalk. The bird blind is made of tall vertical wood slats inscribed with the names and current status of each of 134 species noted by Lewis and Clark. There may be a view of the river during the winter, but otherwise the blind provides a screened view of surrounding trees and wetlands where you may take some time for birding. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: Day use fee or federal recreation pass. State recreation passes are not accepted. Getting There: From Portland, take I-84 east through Troutdale to exit 18. Turn right on Jordan Rd, following signs for Sandy River Delta. Once you enter the site, continue to the circular parking area at the end. There are four van accessible parking spots. Access the trailhead from the curb cut at the accessible parking spots. Nearby Alternatives: Coming Soon Land Acknowledgement: This is the traditional lands of the Upper Chinook people. To the west of the Sandy River, the Multnomah (Wappato) and Clackamas bands of the Upper Chinook people were based between the Cowlitz and Sandy Rivers. On the other side of the Sandy River Delta, the Wasco band lived the furthest east of the Chinook people. Information from: Confluence Project Trail Map Image Description: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.

A Disabled Hiker's Guide to 5 Washington State Parks provides detailed information for five state parks in the King County area: Lake Sammamish, Flaming Geyser, Federation Forest, Saltwater, and Dash Point. Each park section includes an overview of the park, suggested activities, and information on the accessibility of many features. This free accessible PDF is a useful guide to planning your accessible adventure in Washington State Parks. A Disabled Hiker's Guide to 5 Washington State Parks The Rundown A Disabled Hiker's Guide to 5 Washington State Parks provides detailed information for five state parks in the King County area: Lake Sammamish, Flaming Geyser, Federation Forest, Saltwater, and Dash Point. The assessments and guide were created by Syren Nagakyrie of Disabled Hikers, with funding and collaboration from the Washington State Parks Foundation. Each park section includes an overview of the park, suggested activities, and information on the accessibility of many features. Features include parking, restrooms and facilities, picnic areas and shelters, trails, campgrounds, and more. This accessible PDF is a useful guide to planning your accessible adventure in Washington State Parks, and an example for park agencies on how to provide better information for disability communities. We hope it is the first of many! Download Image Description: Text in front of a green forest reads " Washington State Parks Foundation, A Disabled Hiker's Guide to Washington State Parks, Free Download"

Disabled Hikers is a cross-disability led organization building disability community and justice in the outdoors. We celebrate disabled people’s experiences in the outdoors through resources, group hikes, trail guides, and more. Building Disability Community and Justice in the Outdoors Donate Now Our Work Disabled Hikers is a cross-disability-led nonprofit building disability community and justice in the outdoors. Our dream is an outdoor culture transformed by access, representation, and justice for Disabled and other marginalized people. We celebrate disabled people’s experiences in the outdoors. We help facilitate those experiences with information, resources, and events, including trail guides and group hikes. We are also committed advocates for justice, access, and inclusion, and work with parks, organizations, brands, and more. With disabled hikers and our allies, we are committed to making the outdoors accessible to all. We aim to accomplish this through community, resources, and action. Accessible Trail Guides The Storytelling Project Inclusive Group Hikes Upcoming Events No events at the moment From Our Founder... Who We Are We challenge the dominant narrative of who is considered to be valid and which experiences matter in the outdoors. Whether enjoying the outdoors means sitting by your window or thru-hiking a trail, you are welcome here. We are cross-disability led and grounded in disability justice. We are hikers, birders, climate activists, homebound nature lovers, creators, and more. Discover Your Next Adventure with Our Hiking Guidebooks! Ready to explore the outdoors in an accessible way? The Disabled Hiker's Guides, which provide comprehensive information about accessible trails, are available for purchase. Written by Disabled Hikers founder Syren Nagakyrie and published by Falcon Guides, they considered the diverse needs of disabled people in the outdoors. These guidebooks remove one of the barriers to access- a lack of information- by utilizing the Spoon Rating System and detailed trail information. Get your signed copy today. Quick View Signed Copy! The Disabled Hiker's Guide to Western Washington and Oregon [Paperback] Price $22.95 Quick View Signed Copy! The Disabled Hikers Guide to Northern California [Paperback] Price $24.95 Get Disabled Hikers Swag Show your pride and support our work with new Disabled Hikers stickers and patches Quick View T-shirt Bonus: Jimothy Disability is Natural Price $20.00 Quick View Poster: Jimothy Disability is Natural Price $15.00 Quick View T-shirt: Jimothy Disability is Natural Price $35.00 Quick View Sticker: Jimothy Disability is Natural Price $8.00 Quick View Disabled Hikers Bumper Sticker Price $8.00 Quick View Disabled Hikers Sticker Price $3.00 Quick View Disabled Hikers Woven Patch Out of stock Quick View Disability is Natural Sticker Price $8.00 Join our mailing list to receive our monthly newsletter! Enter your email here Sign Up Thanks for joining!