For a nice streamside ramble, head up to the Moulton Falls Trail, northeast of Battle Ground, Washington, about 45 minutes from Portland.
The trail runs adjacent to the rushing waters of the East Fork Lewis River, under a lush forest canopy. The flat topography coupled with a soft, crushed gravel surface make for a very pleasant outing in the woods.
From the starting point it’s about 2-1/2 miles to Moulton Falls County Park; for extra mileage, head up the Bells Mountain trail (about 1/4 mile from Moulton Falls) toward Larch Mountain.
Moulton Falls County Park is a nice place to visit, with tall trees, big rapids, and an iconic bridge arching high over a rocky chasm and the river coursing within its walls. The park is a popular place with swimmers and sunbathers.
Keep an eye out for other forms of wildlife on your run, such as kingfishers darting overhead.
To get there: From Battle Ground, drive north on WA 503 about 6 miles to Rock Creek Road, which turns into Lucia Falls Road. After 5.3 miles turn right on Hantwick Road, then drive 1/2 mile to the trailhead and parking lot.
-Phil Orlowski
