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Community Corner

Woodinville Viewfinder: Paradise Valley Conservation Area

Tranquil in winter and spring, summer brings out the mountain bikers.

The Pacific Northwest boasts some beautiful wilderness, and the Paradise Valley Conservation Area is no exception. An easily accessible trail head, with over 10 miles devoted to the cyclist, walker and equestrian this area has something for anyone wanting to get out into nature.

Due to past logging activities no old growth forest remains, though some trees up to 100 years old can be seen. Douglas Firs, Western Hemlock and Western White Pine, eradicated by disease in most of its range, find refuge here. Wildlife such as black-tailed deer, the great horned owl and many species of birds can all be found within the 793 acre public property.

Wetlands, streams and springs come together to form Bear Creek, where several species of salmon spawn, including sockeye and coho while beavers build their dams from saplings gathered along the stream banks.

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The Paradise Vallery Conservation Area became public land, cared for by the Snohomish County Parks and Recreation Department, in 2000. All farming and logging were immediately discontinued so that the land could begin the return to its natural state.

Several different trails snake through the area, some are walking trails while others are open to cyclists and equestrians as well. The largest, the Mainline Trail, was formerly a logging road. All intersections are clearly marked, making navigating the maze of trails a breeze. Parking is available on Paradise Hill Road for cars, and trailers have a dedicated area at Lord hill Regional Park.

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A quiet walk through the woods in the Paradise Valley Conservation area is highly recommended any time of year, but be careful after a rain as the trails can get a little muddy!

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