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Walk 6/11 Northern State Recreation Area
We started at the main trailhead off Helmick Road just east of Sedro Woolley


Trailhead includes this new memorial plaza honoring local servicemember


Entrance to the veterans plaza


Charming little kiosk with the trail map. Map is out of date, as brand new trails now exist.


Views of Cascade foothills above the open fields


Old barns that were part of a large dairy farm operated on the hospital grounds from early 1900s to 1970's


The hospital community was largely self-sustaining, growing a lot of their food.


Some trails were mowed paths through fields and meadows


While some paths were regular forest trails, nicely surfaced with smooth crushed gravel.


Forest scenery included many old growth cedars and firs


Winding our way through the forest


Plans are to install a Wind Phone at this site. Google it, it's interesting.


Lots of old stumps from long ago logging


Trail was a joy to walk


Several nice bridges have also been constructed. They call this the Song Sparrow Bridge


Trail often times goes through dense vegetation, nicely cut back.


Bridge spanning Hansen Creek


Taking a break alongside the creek.


Admiring a meadow filled with wildflowers


Layers of lovely lupine lining the lea.


Cornflower blossom


Making our way back to the trailhead. Nearly 5 miles covered today.


Updated maps show the brand new Hill Creek Loop


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