Historic Wind River is located at the southern gateway to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, which makes it a great base for your forest adventures. But for those days that you just want to relax without getting back in the car, there are fun things to do within walking distance of the vacation rentals!

Picnic under the trees

Walk across the bridge at the north end of Chapman Avenue, turn left on the 43 Road, and you will see a little loop road immediately on your left. Here you will find the Hemlock Picnic area, with a grassy lawn, picnic tables, and a picnic shelter. For cooler months, there is a stone fireplace at the picnic shelter. Until the removal of Hemlock Dam in 2009, this little park was the place that families congregated on warm summer days to play and swim in Hemlock Lake. With the lake gone, it has become a quiet picnic area. If you walk to the edge of the open grassy area, you will find two short trails. The path to the left follows the old lakeshore to viewing platforms with interpretive signs, and a view of Trout Creek. The path that goes straight is a loop through young alder and cottonwood trees to the banks of Trout Creek (see below).

Play in Trout Creek

From the Hemlock Picnic Area (see above), follow the path through the young alder and cottonwood trees to the banks of Trout Creek. While the current is swift in the winter months, summer brings lower water levels that allow wading or floating in the crystal-clear water. If you aren’t accustomed to mountain streams, you may be surprised at how chilly the water is, even on warm days!

Explore the Arboretum

Just behind the historic houses along Chapman Avenue is one of the oldest arboretums in the Pacific Northwest. In 1912, researchers began planting trees from around the world to learn what kinds of trees would grow best for replanting after the huge forest fires of the early 20th century. As they monitored the trees over the decades, it became clear that our native species were the most reliable choice in the long run, even though some exotic species grew well for many years. We are in the process of restoring the arboretum, but even in its current condition it is a pleasant place for an easy walk.

Take a hike

While there are many great hikes within driving distance of Historic Wind River, there are several nice hikes that require less than a mile of pleasant walking from Chapman Avenue to reach the trail, so you won’t need to get in your car at all!