The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Friends of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge will host a free guided hike to Long Island on Saturday, July 26, according to a news release.
Accessible only by boat, Long Island is part of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge and is home to the Don Bonker Cedar Grove Trail. The trail winds through coastal temperate rainforest and features an ancient grove of western red cedars, some almost 1,000 years old.
People who registered for this event meet at 3888 U.S. Highway 101, Ilwaco, north of mile marker 24, at 1:30 p.m. to check in and board a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service-owned barge for a 2:15 departure.
After a 45-minute ride, hikers reach the island where guides will lead groups to the old-growth cedar grove.
The hike is 2 miles round trip and rated as moderate to difficult in some areas due to uneven terrain and exposed roots. Participants will return on the barge to Cutthroat Creek by 6:15 p.m.
While on the barge, all participants must wear a personal flotation device (PFD). If participants do not have a PFD, one will be provided. All-weather clothing and appropriate footwear are recommended, as well as bringing water, snacks, binoculars, a camera and insect repellant. If weather or other conditions result in the event being canceled, registered attendees will be notified as soon as possible via email or phone.
Registration is required for this free event, and space is limited. Register at friendsofwillaparefuge.org/Events.
