Press Release
March 08, 2022
State Parks hosts public meeting in Menlo
Park planners will discuss updated plans for new trail access, parking for Willapa Hills Trail
OLYMPIA – March 8, 2022 – Washington State Parks invites the public to a second open house in Pacific County to learn more about updated plans for the Willapa Hills Trail at Menlo.
WHEN:
6:30 - 8 p.m.
Thursday, March, 24
WHERE:
Willapa Valley High School, 22 Viking Way, Menlo (Driving directions.)
WHAT:
State Parks planners will seek public input about a proposed trailhead and parking lot at Menlo, in Pacific County. The plan has been updated since the first public meeting was held Jan. 13.
The proposed trailhead would be located within the boundaries of the Willapa Hills State Park Trail right-of-way. The proposed parking lot would be set on the north side of State Route 6, next to the Menlo Store. Planners will also discuss landscaping and design.
BACKGROUND:
The 56-mile Willapa Hills Trail has been developed to a point 26 miles west of Chehalis in Lewis County and from South Bend 5 miles east to Raymond in Pacific County. The trail passes Rainbow Falls State Park 16 miles west of Chehalis, where trail users can camp.
The proposed Menlo Trailhead is located seven miles east of the paved trail terminus at Raymond and 22.5 miles west of the nearest trail access at Pe Ell. The project is part of a long-term commitment by State Parks to develop a contiguous trail for recreational use.
For more information, please contact parks planner Michael Hankinson at michael.hankinson@parks.wa.gov
About Willapa Hills State Park Trail
A former railroad line, the trail is 56 miles long and aligned east/west between Chehalis in Lewis county and South Bend in Pacific county. Approximately 27 miles of the trail are open for non-motorized recreational use. Typical trail activities include hiking, biking and equestrian use, which provide countless opportunities for wildlife viewing, sightseeing and fitness. Learn more about the trail: http://parks.state.wa.us/1023/Willapa-Hills-Trail
News media contacts:
Meryl Lassen, Communications Office (360) 490-8796, media@parks.wa.gov
Tim Bell, Southwest Regional Capital Program (360) 725-9759
About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Park Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.