Park Improvement Projects – Trail Restoration

Every day, the beautiful trails in our state parks promote physical health, community-building, and enjoyment of the outdoors. The wear and tear that comes with regular use and bad weather sometimes means our trails need support. Thanks to donor contributions, we completed several trail improvement projects that are protecting park environments and enhancing the visitor experience. 

Obstruction Pass 

As part of a bluff revitalization project, fresh native plants like ocean spray, snowberry, and red flowering currant are thriving along the trail edges at Obstruction Pass. The bluff had eroded due to hikers wandering off the main path and stepping on vegetation. Park staff also took the opportunity to host an Earth Day community event, educating the public about how they can protect the park by staying on the trail.  

Moran 

This park’s most popular trails, Mountain Lake Loop and Little Summit Trail, now have nine new and repaired footbridges. The old wooden footbridges were deteriorating, leaving some hikers with unsafe walking conditions. The bridges are now easier for hikers to navigate and safer for staff responding to emergencies on the trail. Beyond the much-needed bridge repairs, park staff also addressed trail erosion by adding stonework and gravel along the trail edges. 

Joseph Whidbey 

A new turnpike is improving the hiking experience for visitors of Joseph Whidbey’s well-loved Moyer Loop Trail. Heavy rains, along with low elevation and sunlight, were causing muddy conditions along the trail. The addition of this 600-foot turnpike ensures hikers have a dry pathway and prevents erosion and trail widening. It’s a win-win when the park is protected and hikers are happier!