Heart of the Dunes 2009

Hidden treasure! Peek into the forest

Published: Monday, May 5th, 2008 In the old-growth forest of the Coast Range there’s a trail that is magical both for kids and adults.

Up the North Fork of the Smith River is an easy 0.7-mile, wheelchairaccessible, loop trail. Another option is to trek nearly 8.7 miles, all the way to Kentucky Falls.

The wet environment makes life thrive for trillium, sourgrass clover carpet, delicate ferns, slugs, mushrooms of all types, squirrels and much more.

To reach the trails from Reedsport, take U.S. Highway 101 north to Smith River Road. After nearly 15 miles, turn left on to North Fork Road, No. 48. Go nearly 10 miles, bearing right, and right again at Road 23. Four miles along, the North Fork Smith Trailhead will be marked on the left. A parking area there will lead you in.
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