Pilchuck Tree Farm - Arlington, WA

This trail is pretty far North of those of us in Clark County, however, it's worth posting here for anyone looking for an overnight adventure. It's definitely on my trail to-do list for this summer!

This is a shared use trail so be prepared to encounter a few bikers and hikers.

Directions:
I-5 north from Seattle (south from Bellingham) to Arlington exit. Head East about 4 miles to highway 9. Turn left on 9. follow 1.8 miles until you see very steep off shoot on the right. Follow up to trail head.

NOTE from Back Country Horseman Regarding USAGE:

Please, please, please spread the word to everyone you know who rides at the Pilchuck treefarm. This is private property. They grow AND HARVEST TREES.

They are currently logging some of the areas that are most actively used by trail riders. STAY AWAY FROM THE ACTIVE LOGGING OPERATIONS!

Do not use this as an opportunity to bomb proof your horses. Stay far away from operating machinery. One of the operators had to shut down his machine because a woman kept moving her horse closer to his machine and the horse was freaking out. It is extremely unsafe.

Also, respect the vehicles on the logging roads. They always have the right of way. Remember, you are a guest on their private property. Earlier this winter a tree farm employee was hauling gravel to the work party location (they paid for the transportation and gravel for our us). There were several women riding their horse down the middle of the road and refused to get out of the way.

We are on the verge of getting the tree farm shut down, at least while they are logging, if people don't respect the rights of the Pilchuck tree farm management. It's their property. They are extremely worried about riders getting hurt and the liability. They do not have to let us into their property. Please pass this message onto everyone you know who rides at the tree farm.

Happy Trails!

Rock Creek Trails Update

Just a quick note on the trail conditions at Rock Creek.

I rode there this weekend and ventured out the Tarbell Trail in search of Hidden Falls (exiting at the back of the campground). We didn't make it to the falls (must have missed a trail point) but we did travel for a long distance on the Tarbell Trail which was in great condition. There were a few sloppy spots, but nothing that made the trail impassable.

There was quite a bit of fresh rock and drainage that has been put in. Thanks to whomever is working so hard to maintain these trails!

We also went up the opposite side of the Tarbell Trail, across the road and through the clear cut. That trail was also in great condition. We didn't travel quite as far on that one but what we did ride, we didn't find any issues.

It did look though that the Bells Mountain trail is closed? Does anyone have any information on that? I've got a couple emails out and will update everyone when/if I find out more.

Happy trails!