Steps to a Healthier Clark County | Media

Clark County Homes & Neighborhoods- East County: Walk the East Side

By Kelly Punteney, Vancovuer Clark Parks & Recreation
Saturday, June 15, 2006

A lot has been written lately about the many health and economic benefits of walking. Doctors recommend walking more than any other form of exercise. Homes close to trails sell first. Walking is also clean, cost-efficient transportation and a smart alternative to driving for shorter trips close to home.

Research shows that the time spent walking is more important than the distance traveled. But in order to get people walking regularly, it's known that we need to feel safe, comfortable and motivated on routes close to home. Walking with a dog, a friend or group is a good way to motivate oneself to walk on a daily basis or at least a few times a week.

Many people are not aware of the outstanding walks available in east Clark County in the Camas-Washougal area. Management, planners and policy makers in these communities understand the benefits of walking and bicycling and are working hard to make this area friendly for bicyclists and pedestrians.

There are two reasons I recommend walking the trail at Captain William Clark Regional Park at Cottonwood Beach this spring. The first is because I want you to take the opportunity to begin your walk in the heart of downtown Washougal. To get a good perspective, start at Reflection Park on B Street and walk south past the Pendleton Woolen Mills outlet store and then cross over SR-14 at the light on 15th Street to Steamboat Landing.

At this point you are on one of the region's most scenic trails, as historic as it is beautiful. This is the second reason I urge you to explore the trail now. There are 3.1 miles of easy trails at the park at Cottonwood Beach. Proceeding along a dike parallel to the Columbia River, the walk provides spectacular views of the water and Mount Hood. Bring your camera to capture some of the views.

This walk also offers an opportunity to look back in history. In October 1792, Lieutenant William Broughton under the command of Captain George Vancouver traveled through the area. He mapped and named the many mountains including Mount St. Helens and Hood. As a matter of fact, Lewis & Clark in 1805 knew where they were -- for the first time in months -- because they had received a copy of Broughton's map from President Jefferson.

The Corps of Discovery passed through here on their way to the Pacific Ocean and again on March 31, 1806 as they began the journey home. Merriweather Lewis and William Clark camped at Cottonwood Beach for six nights -- their longest stay anywhere in Clark County. While here, they gathered supplies for their return journey to Idaho, where Nez Perce Indians had cared for their horses over the winter.

But let's get back to the first reason I said to start your walk in downtown Washougal. I want you to see firsthand what is going on in this and other communities of Clark County. Take a walk now and observe the scene "before" and then come back again and again to see the big changes that are planned to take place in this vibrant small community center.

And don't stop there. Check out Camas downtown too and walk from there up through Lacamas Park and the Heritage Trail. There is a lot to see and do in east Clark County, and you will feel great for the experience.

CORPS OF DISCOVERY

Captain William Clark Park

At Cottonwood Beach, SR-14 at 15th Street, Washougal

"We proceeded on about 2 miles above the enterance of this Seacalf river and immediately opposit the upper mouth of the quick Sand river we formed a Camp in a Small Prairie on the North Side of the Columbia where we intend to delay one or two days to make Some Selestial observations, to examine quick sand river, and kill Some meat to last us through the Western Mountains."

-- Journal of Capt. William Clark, March 31, 1806

In August 2005, this park was officially dedicated to Captain William Clark. It is often used to commemorate and re-enact historic events and help visitors connect with our community's heritage. The Captain William Clark Park Recognition Plaza is a welcome way station. Located at the top of the dike, it provides historical displays and commanding views.

A walk through Captain William Clark Park is like a walk back in time. Take a moment to reflect on those who passed this way before. It is an inspiring experience.

Directions

From SR-14, south on 15th Street or South 32nd Street in Washougal; park at trailhead. Accessible by car, bus, bicycle or foot.

Facilities

Swimming, wading, picnicking, children's play area, horseshoe pits, sand volleyball courts, camping (by reservation only).

Fees:

None (except for camping).

Hours:

7 a.m. to 10 p.m., except for camping.

GET AWAY TO IT ALL

Lacamas Lake

NW Lake Road at SR-500, Camas

The Lacamas Heritage Trail is the perfect outdoor walking experience. This peaceful 3.5-mile gravel path winds through old-growth forest on the west side of Lacamas Lake, providing views of the lake, waterfalls and rock formations. Native plants, wildflowers and birds abound. Both trailheads include parking and restrooms. Picnic tables, a play area, waterfront access and a boat launch at the southern trailhead offer something for everyone!

LOCAL FAVORITE

Lacamas Heritage Trail

A long, continuous nature corridor that is home to a wide variety of wildlife. It preserves a wilderness quality and receives considerable use, just minutes from downtown Camas.

Directions

SR-14 to SR-500 in Camas, north on SR-500 to NE Lake Road; second trailhead at Goodwin Road. Accessible by car, bus, bicycle or foot.

Facilities

Boating, hiking and biking trails, play equipment, bird watching, restrooms.

Fees

None.

Hours

7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Local Trail Information

Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation

www.vanclarkparks-rec.org

Use this informative site to find out more about Clark County trails and parks.