GET OUT IN NATURE Regional conservation areas perfect for exploring, hiking

By Seagrin van Ranson Marketing Correspondent

Natural resources conservation areas and natural area preserves were designed to protect and preserve untouched native ecosystems in our beautiful state, enabling us to experience and explore flawless examples of unique environments in our area.

Spokane boasts numerous conservation and natural areas, conveniently located close to town. With unparalleled proximity and accessibility to nature, it’s easy to see why the area attracts outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Here are a few trails near town that won’t disappoint. Nestled in the middle of the sprawling Dishman Hills, the Glenrose Unit of the Dishman Hills Conservation Area can be accessed from both the Glenrose and Phillips Creek trailheads. This unit is part of more than 3,200 acres of public land in the southwest region of the beautiful Selkirk Mountain range. Here you will witness an incredible display of the effects the mighty Missoula floods had on our region, which left behind dramatic ledges, granite outcroppings, ridges, cliffs and gullies. You’ll traverse between forests of towering ponderosa pine and Douglas fir and rolling open-prairie meadows with tree-capped tops. The cliffs provide miles of out-and-back trails where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Spokane, Spokane Valley and the surrounding Selkirk Mountains. Two rare plants, the Water Howellia and the Black Snakeroot, can be found in this area, as well as a staggering 50 species of butterflies.

Plenty of wildlife make their home in these hills, so be on the lookout for whitetail deer frolicking, moose wandering, a variety of raptors, coyotes, weasels, and other woodland creatures. Immerse yourself in the wild beauty and take a moment to notice the way the sunlight hits the mica-flecked trails as they lay out before you, sparkling, inviting you to explore the magic that is the Dishman Hills.

Located just north of the Liberty Lake Regional Park entrance, MacKenzie Natural Area is a great option for a short loop with terrific mountain and lake views. We’ve spotted black bear, moose, elk, whitetail deer, coyotes and even wolves! The Misty Mountain Trail’s 400-foot climb winds through pine-lined ridges dotted with wildflowers and leads to an overlook where you’ll be treated to views of Liberty Lake, Mica Peak and the surrounding Selkirk Mountains. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, the

Nearly every type of conifer native to the Inland Northwest is here, including Douglas fir, Grand fir, Western hemlock, Ponderosa pine, Lodgepole pine, Western white pine, Western red cedar, and Western larch. In the wetlands, you’ll find cottonwood and aspen groves. The rich diversity of tree species creates a lush atmosphere for a wide variety of wildlife, so keep an eye out for whitetail deer, elk, moose, coyote, black bear and cougar, painted turtles and frogs in the wetlands, and myriad feathered friends. Bald eagle nests are easily spotted in the marsh near the lakeshore to the east, aptly named Eagle Ridge where you’ll find a wildlife viewing area. There are different trail options at McKenzie, but my favorite is the Bedrock Ridge/Turtle Rock trail, where you will find massive rock outcroppings believed to be ice-rafted erratic deposits from the great Missoula floods. Here, you will catch your first glimpse of the lake below and of the Selkirks to the north. Make your way down toward the lakeshore where you’ll find Turtle Rock (you’ll know it when you see it)---a perfect place to stop and take in the view from Muzzy Bay.

Keep in mind: These places are truly primitive and provide habitat for a remarkable variety of wildlife. Keep your distance, beware of your surroundings, and remember, we’re on their land. Leave no trace, stay on trail, and most of all, HAVE FUN!