Running through the Fort Steilacoom trails covered in orange and white streamers I feel a bit like a character out of hansel and gretel or maybe peter pan. I have a quiver on my back for trail marker collection. I scare the dogs (what is this strange animal?), draw curious looks from hikers and inquiries from mountain bikers ‘what are you doing?’. I am sweeping of course. I have just finished photographing one of the abundant trail running events in the area, now it is my turn to run. I might as well collect a few course markers along the way, all the while………. creating the latest in trail running style.
The XTERRA Fort Steilacoom Run was jointly produced by XTERRA and our very own Northwest Trail Runs. The park is located in the city of Lakewood. The course winds its way around Waughop Lake, through open fields, wide tree-lined trails, a large enclosed dog park, up hills, over logs, down hills, through the trees, and cherry blossom petal lined paths.
Fort Steilacoom Park comes with history! A fascinating interview about the park and its ghosts with native historian Steve Dunkelberger can be heard here:
I am learning about the hidden gems in Seattle and the surrounding areas. The lesser known parks. There are trails to conquer, everywhere here. And you don’t necessarily have to drive far to get there. From wide open spaces to winding and twisting root covered paths in the trees. I am on a mission this summer to discovery and document the best of them. Join me!