Preserve Trail

The Preserve Trail starts from the parking area off Highway 136. The trail follows yellow blazes but for the first 0.2 miles or so the trail is joined by the Crest Trail (orange blazes) and the Champion Creek Trail (white blazes). After 0.2 miles the Crest Trail branches off to the left to head back to the parking area. After another tenth of a mile the Preserve Trail heads off to the left and the Champion Creek Trail continues right. Stay left to follow the yellow blazes. The trail drops towards Champion Creek down a moderately steep grade. Long before reaching the creek, however, the trail turns north and heads back up the hill. It rejoins the Champion Trail at about 0.8 mile, which comes in from the right. Head left and you'll shortly be back at the parking lot. This is an easy scenic hike. There are nice views of the mountain and is rich with wildlife. This is a great place for nature lovers and bird watchers alike. Though the grade can steepen a bit, there is nothing too difficult and there is no scrambling on this trail; just mostly easy going. An ideal hike for beginners.