Three Bridges Trail and Stevensonville Trail

Starting near King County, Washington, the Three Bridges Trail and Stevensonville Trail offer a delightful 3 km (1.86 miles) loop with an elevation gain of approximately 100 meters (328 feet). This medium-difficulty trail is perfect for those looking to enjoy a moderately challenging hike with a variety of natural and historical features.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the nearest known landmark, the King County Library System's Duvall Library, located at 15508 Main St NE, Duvall, WA 98019. From there, it's a short drive to the trailhead. For public transport, take the King County Metro Transit bus route 224, which stops near the library. From the library, you can either walk or take a short taxi ride to the trailhead.

Trail Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on track.

Trail Highlights

#### The Three Bridges As you begin your hike, you'll soon encounter the first of the three bridges that give this trail its name. These wooden bridges span small creeks and offer picturesque views of the flowing water below. The bridges are well-maintained but can be slippery after rain, so take care when crossing.

#### Stevensonville Historical Site Approximately 1 km (0.62 miles) into the hike, you'll come across the Stevensonville Historical Site. This area was once a bustling logging town in the early 1900s. Although the town no longer exists, you can still see remnants of old logging equipment and foundations of buildings. Informational plaques provide a glimpse into the history of the region, making it a great spot to take a break and learn about the area's past.

Flora and Fauna The trail is surrounded by lush Pacific Northwest forest, featuring towering Douglas firs, western red cedars, and bigleaf maples. In the spring and summer, the underbrush is adorned with vibrant wildflowers like trilliums and bleeding hearts. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including black-tailed deer, raccoons, and a variety of bird species such as the Steller's jay and the pileated woodpecker.

Elevation and Terrain The trail's elevation gain of 100 meters (328 feet) is spread out over the 3 km (1.86 miles), making for a steady but manageable climb. The terrain is a mix of packed dirt and gravel, with some rocky sections. Good hiking boots are recommended to navigate these areas comfortably.

Final Stretch As you near the end of the loop, you'll cross the final two bridges, each offering unique views of the surrounding forest and streams. The trail then gently descends back to the trailhead, providing a relaxing end to your hike.

Practical Tips - Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months. - Wear layers, as the weather can change quickly in this region. - Use the HiiKER app for real-time navigation and updates. - Be mindful of wildlife and maintain a safe distance.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a rewarding experience for hikers of all levels.