It is commonly said that the Railroads built the USA by allowing fast, efficient and inexpensive travel to parts unknown. But now, many railroad lines have been abandoned as modern transportation advanced. It’s sad because the railroad lines traversed some of the most scenic parts of our beautiful country. In more recent years there has been grass roots efforts to turn old abandoned rail lines into trails for public use. Hiking, Walking, Sunday strolls, Horse Back riding and Bicycles all are making use of these wonderful trails.
Here in Ferry County, Washington, up in the back of the beyond, we have the most incredibly dedicated group of volunteers who have worked tirelessly to turn our little piece of paradise into an even more beautiful, accessible and family friendly piece of paradise. We are a tiny community but we have people who dare to dream big and act on their dreams. Thanks to their efforts we have The Ferry County Rail Trail which follows some of the most scenic areas of our region. Let’s go for a bike ride!
The old railroad trestle crossing Curlew Lake was re-decked in 2014. A major project!
Running 28 1/2 miles north from our town of Republic, WA to the US/ Canada border ( yes, we are that close to Canada!), the Rail Trail contains both surfaced and nonsurfaced sections. It meanders through woodlands and open fields. It runs alongside Curlew Lake, one of the prettiest lakes I have ever seen, and rolls along the Kettle River where Eagles, Osprey, Otters and Deer are seen more often than not.
The Kiwana’s Road Trail Head where Sparky and I parked the truck and set out across the Trestle.
The Yellow Line on the map indicates the paved section that we rode from the trestle to Miyoko Point. A distance of about 6.5 miles one way.
You ready for some scenery? Or ” why do Dan and Karen live in the middle of somewhere but not where a lot of people choose to live?” Well, this is why.
A smooth flat trail with Sparky leading the way while I kept stopping for pictures!
We started at the trestle and my first stop made me…….just pause….and look….and think how grateful I am to live….. here.
As my gaze lifted upwards and the lake expanded in my view and I saw the the reflection of the clouds in the water, whatever tension I was feeling, just lifted up and floated away.
We are fortunate to have 3 fishing resorts on Curlew Lake. Tiffany’s and Black’s Beach are on the trail side of the lake. Fisherman’s Cove is on the east side of the lake. They each have their own unique charm and let me tell you, the fishing is fine in Curlew Lake! How about spending a week up here in paradise? September is a grand month to do so.
Peddling on down the smooth, bump less trail, there are year round and seasonal home tucked away on bluffs and coves and right on the water. This one has a spectacular view of the lake, but oh my!! The stairs down to the water!
Do you see the incredibly blue sky? Yes, it really does look like that. Being away from pollution does that to the air.
No crowds. No noise. No racing boats. Just a couple of guys enjoying the day and hoping for some trout.
Some turtle fun in the sun!
The views just keep getting better and better. Mind you, this is all flat, paved trail and easy as pie to navigate! Looking north from one of many small bays.
Lake to the right and gnarly old growth pine and fir to the left. Bet this tree could tell some stories.
Tucked away is a small public boat launch, perfect for your kayak, canoe and aluminum fishing boat down at Miyoko Point.
Can you stand more beauty? Can you imagine biking this path as slow and easy as you like, taking it all in?
Sparky and I did a little over 12 miles. Easy miles as neither of us had been on a bike in months. But it was time to call it a day and head home for lunch.
On the way north, I had to stop and admire the Aspen. Their colors are changing to gold and yes, the rustling or “quaking” of the leaves is a sound that nothing else compares to.
Yeppers…we do share the trail with all types of wildlife. This bear poo is old, but there were several areas of well….examples. That’s my shadow!
Looking north from the trestle to Mt. Elizabeth as some rain clouds drifted by. They didn’t bother to stop!
We are so thankful for the corporations and individuals who have donated so much of their time, money and services to make the Ferry County Rail Trail a reality. Sparky and I saw a total of 6 other people this gorgeous Sunday morning. I hope to encourage you all to come on out and enjoy the fresh air and exercise whether it is for a quarter mile or all 28 miles. You won’t regret it. So soul satisfying!
Oh, and there may not be an ice cream stand on the trail but we are happy to let you know that other needed services are provided! Wave “goodbye” Dan!
Thanks so much for stopping by today and letting me share with you the beauty of the place we call home.
Wherever your journey leads you today, I wish you blue sky, sunshine, fresh air and peace. Especially peace.
Journey on!
Hugs and much love from me,
Karen, TJG
Karen,
I love this. Love the pictures, your writing and love where you live.
Thank you for the beautiful photo essay! I can’t wait to ride this trail.
A very nice place that I will come to visit and ride the trail along Curlew Lake while seeing my daughter who lives in Spirit Lake, Idaho.