The first day of 2019 event, invited the public to get outside, combat diabetes, and enjoy a short level walk alongside a picturesque little river on the northwest side of the Olympic Peninsula. Lions provided a warm welcome, healthy snacks, and informative guidance along the trail.

Friends of Hoko River State Park and Clallam Bay Sekiu Lions volunteer to support Hoko River State Park, encompassing the Cowan Heritage Area, Hoko River Estuary, Clallam Bay Park, and the Little Hoko River Trail. Bill Riedel, longtime trail hiker, and Board Member for the Friends Group is the team leader for the Trail. He scouted the trail previous to the guided walk and provided helpful tips.

The First Day Walk was part of a “fee-free” day at many State Parks across Washinton State. For everyday visits, a Discover Pass is required for each vehicle.

If you wish to take a pleasant northwest rainforest walk, rain or shine, head west through Clallam Bay and Sekiu, and turn south on the Hoko-Ozette Road. When you pass the historic turn-of-century barn and farmhouse on your left, you’ll cross the Little Hoko Bridge and park in the trailhead on the east side of the road. Go through the walking gate and enjoy the easy-going walk through towering evergreens, moss-covered maple, dense underbrush, and wide meadows.

If you seek more information, view the Friends of Hoko River State Park Facebook page or read the items on the bulletin board across from the Cowan Farm. The Friends group invites you to enjoy the park and even join the volunteer work team if you are inspired.

Tall evergreens frame the trail.

A group pauses at the trailhead before heading out. Warren Brown, Kim Bowlby, June Bowlby, Carol Johnson. Lions Nancy Messmer, Karen Dukes, and Mike Dukes.

The trail runs alongside the Little Hoko River.