These are my pictures from a visit to Wind River Historical District in December of 2021. The Wind River Experimental Arboretum is an interpretative walk with little elevation gain and the option to split the trail into one of two loops for a shorter hike. We were able to enjoy it on a white, wintery day!
They say it’s two miles but I got in about a mile after doing both loops. This arboretum is the oldest in the Pacific Northwest and gives you the opportunity to learn about the surviving exotic trees planted to test the viability of non-native species for timber production. It will be no surprise to learn that none of them did well enough to supplant our native species. I did my best to take pictures of the trees that lined up with the markers but it was difficult to tell at times which were which. You can watch the video as well as read about our experience at A Winter Walk In The Wind River Experimental Arboretum.
Directions: From Carson, head north on the Wind River Highway for 7.6 miles. At the town of Stabler, turn left onto Hemlock Road. Drive for 1.3 miles and you will be at the old Forest Service office. Travel straight across Trout Creek to access the historic district and arboretum. There is parking on the right near the sequoia trees, no pass needed.
For more information, visit here.
Another fun hike in the area is Falls Creek Falls or you can visit my Southwest Washington & Columbia River Gorge page.
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