You’re in for a big surprise at the western end of the Burnt Bridge Creek Trail in Vancouver. This family-friendly trail is 8.2 miles (one way), running alongside the Burnt Bridge Creek, and meanders through a variety of landscapes, such as grasslands, wetlands and forests. We particularly love the western leg of the trail, a 3-mile trip filled with hidden gems and a little “magic,” too.
Getting Started
Parking is free, but it’s first come-first-first serve on the street. We recommend parking near Lakeshore Road. Here you can make a 3-mile round trip journey to Hazel Dell Avenue. Stroller friendly, this paved trail includes available benches and trash cans, but no local bathroom. Four-legged friends are welcome on leashes as well.
First Stop: Gnome Trail
The Gnome Trail is a community-driven bit of magic, full of whimsical forest creatures in nooks and crannies along the walking trail just off the paved path. Find the main trailhead for the gnomes at the ¾ mile marker on the trail, and check for updates with the Gnome Trail Vancouver, Washington Facebook group online. You’ll have to park the strollers and bikes for this part, but the trail is short with additional entrance and exits points throughout. Look all around you for curated scenes with fairytale creatures. ProTip: You are welcome to leave additional gnomes, but please don’t take other’s contributions or leave trash behind. Psssst! Find not only gnomes, but a whole host of fantastical creatures across the greater metro here!
Stop 2: Prayer Box and a Picnic Stop
A bit further down the main trail, you’ll find a locked prayer box and an open space among the tree canopy that some refer to as the Cedar Cathedral. Downed logs and picnic tables make for nice shaded seating area here, though the origins for much of the area are unknown.
If you head back out onto the paved trail again, you’ll soon reach an open space, emerging from under the tree canopy. This is where the trail will move you closer to the fast-moving Burnt Bridge Creek. We didn’t find any trolls under the bridges, but we did find some posed skeletons guarding the yards of local residents.
Stop 3: Poetry Box
Continuing on the main trail, you’ll come across a vibrant poetry mailbox. Take a poem or leave a poem, it’s up to you. The origins of this box, like the prayer box, appear to be lost to time, but the poets are still visiting. The Poetry Box is located near some very friendly horses, but these equines happen to be allergic to carrots, so please follow the owners’ requests and don’t feed them — no matter how much they beg. The poetry path will lead you to a mini public park called Alki Road Park, a favorite for area dog owners. It’s also a great spot to stop for a picnic or an extra snack.
Shortly after the park, we turned around to complete our three-mile round trip, but Burnt Bridge Creek Trail is just around 8 miles, if you wish to walk farther.
Things to Do Nearby
- The trailhead is 4 miles away from Klineline Pond in one direction and the Vancouver Waterfront in another. Each of these areas have additional walking trails, splash pads, kids play spaces and restrooms. The waterfront is also walking distance of the weekend Vancouver Farmers’ Market.
- Uptown Main Street is a great location for a treat. For kid-friendly options, check out Bleu Door Bakery, SOMA Kombucha taproom, or Hungry Sasquatch for a slice.