Spring is in the air! If you want to escape the burbs head to Silverdale. This lovely town is centrally located on the Kitsap Peninsula. It's just 30 minutes by WA state ferry from Seattle, and a 40 minute drive west of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
I've explored the area from top to bottom and side to side. There's a lot of nature to explore and endless trails for walking. Oh, and I can't forget to mention; you'll love the breathtaking views of the snow capped Olympics and Sinclair Inlet.
WHERE TO DO A SPRING HIKE IN KITSAP COUNTY
Clear Creek Trail is a big hit with visitors and residents of the Kitsap Peninsula. I've lived in the west sound for years and have walked this trail only a few times. The best way to celebrate spring, is to get out and enjoy a hike on the Clear Creek Trail . Here are some tips for visiting and facts that may interest you.ARRIVE EARLY
I was a bit excited for some sun and decided to go for a hike . Most of the time the parking here is a big pain. There is a small parking lot at the head of the trail, it's always overflowing. Parking is available on the side of the road. I do recommend arriving early in the day. In spring and summer the trail is always packed, of course. It may be a good idea to wake up with the chickens and start trekking!WHAT TO WEAR
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As you might already know, the weather in Western Washington can be temperamental. There can be wind and rain one minute, and sunny and calm the next. The Kitsap Peninsula is no exception to the rule. A good pair of waterproof tennis shoes, layers you can peel off and a rainproof jacket will serve you well.
BE MINDFUL OF WILDLIFE
Clear Creek trail is not heavily wooded. It's quite the opposite. However, there could be creatures lurking in the trenches, so just beware! As we know, most wildlife will shy away from humans and only come out at night. There isn't much to fear here, but bears and coyotes have been sighted.
Creatures you may encounter
- Raccoons
- Deer
- Fox
- Muskrat
- Mice
- Rats
- Birds
- Salmon
VOLUNTEER
SALMON IN THE CLASSROOM
The program was originally started by the Kiwanis Club, it got too big for them to handle. Now several agencies are involved to make sure this experience continues. Clean Water Kitsap, Kitsap Public Utilities, Kitsap Public Health District and the Suquamish Tribe help out with running the program each year.
Types of salmon occupying the creek are Chum, Chinook and Coho.The environment at this creek makes it difficult for the salmon to survive; because of the runoff from some of the surrounding areas. Luckily, many of them do manage to survive and spawn.
As mentioned before it rains often and the trail can get very soggy; try to visit on a sunny day . Maybe it's dry enough to do a hike in your neck of the woods. Have fun exploring wherever you go to get your nature fix!
Awesome post!!
ReplyDeleteThis hike looks really nice indeed! And interesting to learn more about the salmon!
ReplyDeleteHow gorg is this place? Definitely want to hike here when I can!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful place!
ReplyDelete