Old Mill

Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Whipple Creek Park Loop, an easy 2.5-mile (4.0 km) hiking route that winds through a lush 300-acre second-growth forest. You'll find yourself surrounded by towering Douglas firs and mossy green undergrowth, with the gentle sound of Whipple Creek accompanying you through the southern part of the park. This loop offers a refreshing escape into nature, taking approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete with a modest 114 feet (35 metres) of elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxed outing.

Located near Vancouver, Washington, the park provides convenient parking at the trailhead, just west of the Clark County Fairgrounds. While many trails are well-maintained, be aware that some primitive dirt sections can become quite muddy during the wet winter months due to poor drainage and clay soils. It's a multi-use park, so expect to share the paths with mountain bikers and equestrians; practicing shared trail etiquette ensures a pleasant experience for everyone.

Whipple Creek Park is notable for its blend of natural beauty and historical elements, including clues to its logging and farming past. Beyond the serene forest, you might spot local wildlife like woodpeckers, deer, and even beavers. The park's extensive network of trails, combined with ongoing volunteer restoration efforts, makes it a cherished close-in nature escape from urban areas, offering a peaceful alternative to more crowded regional trails.

The Old Mill loop from Whipple Creek Park offers a delightful immersion into a rich, second-growth forest, feeling surprisingly remote despite its proximity to Vancouver. You'll wander among colossal Douglas-firs, cedars, and big-leaf maples, with sword ferns creating a lush understory. Keep an eye out for the historical Old Grist Mill, a fascinating abandoned structure that adds a touch of history to your forest walk.

This easy 1.8-mile (2.9 km) hike with a gentle 123 feet (38 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 46 minutes, making it ideal for a quick nature fix. The terrain varies from wide gravel paths to narrower dirt trails, which can get muddy seasonally. Parking is available at Whipple Creek Park, and it's a multi-use area, so be prepared to share the trails with equestrians.

Whipple Creek Park is a 300-acre natural gem in Clark County, Washington, known for its dense forest and historical remnants beyond just the Old Grist Mill, such as Castle's Gazebo and Custard's Chimney. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone seeking an accessible, peaceful forest experience close to the city, offering a tranquil escape into nature.