White Chuck Bench

The White Chuck Bench trail is a beautiful, 2.5 mile walk in the woods along the White Chuck River.

The entire hikeable length of the trail has been cleared by hardworking WTA crews after the 2003 floods rendered it nearly inaccessible. Since then, thanks to road-clearing and numerous work parties, the trail takes hikers on good, winding tread through a pleasant forest of tall trees. Skirt the ledge above the White Chuck River, cross a sturdy wood bridge, and continue upstream, looking for peek-a-boo views of Mount Pugh and the surrounding summits.

Don't miss the trees for the forest -- take time to look at individual cedars, hemlock and Douglas fir, which are fighting to see who among them wins the battle of succession. There are a few silver firs here, too. The trees in the area are second-growth, sprung up from former logging operations shut down about 80 years ago. It's amazing how large they can get in less than a century.

The forest floor offers a wealth of life as well. Blanketed by moss, Oregon grape, false lily of the valley, watch where you step to ensure you don't disturb the life underfoot.

After about a mile or so, the trail descends gently down to river level. It continues for miles, but at 2.5 miles is a nice turnaround point. Take some photos of the views and the life all around you, and head back the way you came. Views on the way back offer a new angle on this beautiful river valley.