Cedar Flats Nature Trail

The Cedar Flats Nature Trail is an 112-acre old growth mixed forest of western red cedar, Douglas fir, and western hemlock in the Cedar Falls Natural Recreational Area that was officially preserved in 1946. It's a peaceful stroll through deep, quiet forest, perfect for children and grown ups alike. The old growth grove begins immediately upon entering the forest from the road with a tall canopy and fern dominated understory.

The trail is an easy one mile walk along the forest floor, so it'll be friendly to little hikers. There are interpretive signs and several benches along its route. Just after a quarter mile, a bridge takes hikers over a small depression that leads to the Muddy River. After another eighth of a mile, the trail splits into a loop. At this point the trail narrows and meanders through the forest. Going left will bring hikers along a small bluff that overlooks the Muddy River, offering a partial view of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Just before the trail rejoins itself at the original split, there is a tree over the trail that requires walking around.

A few downed trees spanning the trail and sawed have growth rings showing them to be more than 500 years old. Part of the trail borders a small bluff on the west side of the Muddy River, offering a partial view of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.