West Branch Little Spokane Wildlife area Deer Park, Wa Rustlers Gulch

 What a hidden gem of an area this is! I had never been there before but will definitely go back to explore the other loop trails. It sits north of Eloika Lake, at the end of Division Rd in Deer Park.  It is challenging, especially on the western side of the loop with a lot of up and down along the side of the hill. You go down, down, down into the valley floor. An old barn on the eastern most side tells you it was once a working farm, ranch. The loop ends and comes back around at the Beaver Creek Trailhead off of Horseshoe Lake rd. This is my next trip to the area as it says the Little Spokane River ends at the end of one of the loops. A beaver pond with gorgeous Lilly pads and flowers was just frosting on the cake to the entire experience. A deer looked at me as I passed by and then flitted away to continue her lunch. A couple of groups of horse and mule riders were out enjoying the area as well.

Fernan Lake Natural Park, Coeur d'alene, Idaho

 Went walkin in the Fernan Lake Natural Park east of Coeur d'alene. I don't think I had ever been to the Lake and was surprised that it was separated from Coeur d'alene Lake only by the freeway. The natural area has a parking lot and paths leadig through the woods that skirt the lake on the south side. Thepaths are well marked and the area nicely maintained. They were doing clean-up to trees that had fallen so some f the paths were marked as closed. Beautiful area, very north Idaho in feel. I will go back and explore deeper in for sure!

 

A spring walk in Manito Park

 Always a stunning walk and if you do the full loop you can get in some up and down, Many of the beds are still awaiting their spring flowers but a lot of the gardens are in full bloom. If you want to see the lilacs you'll have to hurry as they are going by fast. The baby ducks are charming the visitors to the duck pond. Oh, I meant to mention that I was surprised to see the greenhouse open but hadn't brought a mask and they are still requiring them so come prepared if you want to go in.

Centennial Trail from the Maringo trailhead

 Went walking along the Centennial trail out of of the Maringo trailhed. There was lots of activity, people biking, walking, running and some wonderful dogs, Sterling and Ri-Ri, playing in the river. The Canadian Geese with babies in tow were swimming on the river. The wildflowers have really started popping along the trail. A group of turtle were sunning themselves on a log in the marshy area along the trail. If you haven't gotten out and enjoyed this section you really to.