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About Appeal tribune. (Silverton, Or.) 1999-current | View Entire Issue (June 14, 2017)
4A ● APPEAL TRIBUNE WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14, 2017 Life in the Valley y sanews@salem.gannett.com ZACH URNESS / STATESMAN JOURNAL FILE The 4-mile paved bike trail winds through lush forest at Silver Falls State Park. SILVER FALLS ADVENTURES State park has a playground, bike trails and a swimming hole ZACH URNESS STATESMAN JOURNAL Silver Falls State Park is about more than just waterfalls. Yes, the main attraction is the 10 spec- tacular cascades that occupy the canyon — and no trip would be complete without viewing at least one of them — but there are many other things to do at the park as summer heats up. Here are five great adventures that don’t include a single waterfall, but all add to the fun at Oregon’s largest state park. ‘Nature Play’ area Instead of swings, slides and merry- go-rounds, the equipment at this nature- inspired playground includes hollowed- out logs, boulders, a nest and tree-climb- ing options. Located at the North Falls Group Camp parking lot, a quarter-mile path- way takes children to three increasingly challenging play areas intended for dif- ferent ages. The first, Bird, is the easiest and home to a nest and tree children can climb into. The next, Bear (my daugh- ter’s favorite), has hollowed out logs and a big climbing tree. The final one, Cou- gar, has large boulders for climbing up and a more challenging climb up another large tree-like feature. At the top, there’s a bullhorn where kids can show off their loudest “rarrr!” Bike, stroller or dog-walking route This hike doesn’t have waterfall views, but it does provide one very im- portant option for families. The waterfall trails don’t allow pets (even if leashed) or bikes, and they’re not great for strollers. So, if you have dogs and infants along — or want to go for a leisurely ride — it makes sense for some members of the family to hike or ride the paved bike path that begins at South Falls Day Use Area. The pathway is a 4-mile loop — you don’t have to do the entire thing — and passes some absolutely massive trees. The route starts at the far end of the South Falls parking area and is easy to find by following little green bike point- ers. Conference center trails This hike begins at Silver Falls’ con- ference center and follows 3.5 miles that highlight the gigantic trees of the park’s backcounty. ZACH URNESS / STATESMAN JOURNAL Lucy Urness plays in a nature-inspired playground at Silver Falls State Park. From the conference center, the route follows Howard Creek Loop, Buck Mountain Loop and Cutoff Trail back to the conference center. Horses some- times use the trail, but that’s part of what makes it interesting. The trial is best in the summer when dry, as it gets fairly muddy in winter. To get started, follow signs for the conference center and look for the trails leading out into the forest. Ask for help at the front of the office if you’re con- fused or want a detailed map. Mountain biking The backcounty of Silver Falls is be- coming a mountain-biking destination. The Catamount Trail, which begins at the 214 Trailhead, is a great option for be- ginner- to moderate-level mountain bik- ers. The 4.5-mile cross-county trail is built for mountain bikers and has features such as turns, berms and rock features that make it more interesting than just a path in the forest. Even so, it’s not too dif- ficult for your average rider. Coming soon to the area will be a mountain bike loop designed for begin- ners. Swimming/playground When the weather gets scorching hot during summer — and a tour behind South Falls just isn’t enough to cool you down — head for the swimming area on South Fork Silver Creek. Located upstream of South Falls — don’t worry, it’s blocked off so you won’t float off the waterfall — is a nice desig- nated swimming spot perfect for hot days. The swimming area can be reached from the South Falls Day Use area, which also is home to a dog park, play- ground and is close to South Falls Lodge, where food and drinks can be had. Come to think of it, who needs water- falls when you have a swimming spot, playground, spot to let the dog run, beau- tiful trails and place for lunch all in one area? STATESMAN JOURNAL FILE The main swimming area at Silver Falls State Park gets packed when heat hits the area. Park officials said the park is typically 5 to 10 degrees cooler than the valley. Zach Urness has been an outdoors writer, photographer and videographer in Oregon for eight years. He is the author of the book “Hiking Southern Oregon” and can be reached at zurness@StatesmanJournal.com or (503) 399-6801. Find him on Twitter at @ZachsORoutdoors.
