Lake Sylvia is out toward Aberdeen, just north of the town of Montesano, and boasts two loops of 2 miles each, both with less than 60 feet elevation gain. It used to be a logging camp until its conversion to a park in 1936 and some artifacts of the logging era remain, apparently including a giant ball carved of wood. For hikers the real attraction is the surrounding forest, which has recovered well from the logging, and the quiet lake (no motorized boats allowed) created by the dam across Sylvia Creek. We'll do the loop around the lake first, then return to the parking area/trailhead before heading out on the second loop out by the creek above the dam. For more info: http://www.parks.wa.g.... For info on the second loop, which is actually in City of Montesano City Forest territory: http://www.montesano.....

To get there from Olympia, take 101 west, and stay on the highway as it turns into 8 and then 12 (seems like all the same road even though the numbers change). Take the exit for Lake Sylvia State Park/Montesano. Head north on Main St past the courthouse. Left on Spruce Ave for three blocks then right on 3rd St (which becomes Lake Sylvia Rd). Go 1.2 miles to the park entrance, and turn left to cross the bridge and park in the day use area near the ranger residence. Look for me near the white Escape Hybrid with the bumper stickers.