Hikers and lovers of the outdoors rejoice! Washington State Parks has recently restored the Beverly Railroad Bridge, connecting vast network of trails throughout the region. The bridge connects two parts of the Palouse to Cascades Trail (PCT), allowing for a seamless transition from one side of the Columbia to the other. The main trail begins west of North Bend and runs to Beverly, where it now crosses the Railroad Bridge and continues to the Idaho border. If you’ve been thinking about getting out of town and connecting with the Spring weather, consider taking a trip to Beverly!
Background
The PCT is managed by Washington State Parks and comprises part of the Palouse to Cascades State Park. The mission statement of their website describes the park’s goals plainly: “From the densely forested Cascades to the scablands carved by the Ice Age floods, Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail gives hikers, cyclists and, in some places, equestrians, a taste of Washington’s diversity.” If you’d like to do further reading on the park, you can click through to the official State Park website here.
Nonprofit Work
Additionally, the nonprofit Palouse to Cascades Trail Coalition (PCTC) worked with a variety of groups and clubs in order to secure $5.7 million for the bridge’s renovation and repairs. It’s clear that with the reopening of the Beverly Railroad Bridge, the State Parks and PCTC are making an effort to connect the people of our region to the land in which we live. Every Washingtonian deserves the chance to experience the spectacle of our beautiful home, and now it’s become more accessible than ever.
Highlights of the Trail
There are too many attractions along the trail to highlight them all, but the lush colors and serene waterfalls of Olallie State Park make the list. Hikers in this region will trek through mountain passes and rocky tunnels into the expanse of Eastern Washington. The trail is designed to be segmented into smaller chunks and specifically caters to cyclists and horseback riders in addition to standard hikers and backpackers. With camping access dotted across the span of the trail, you’re never too far from a place to set up for a night under the stars. If you’re interested in the history of the railroad, the historic train depots at Cle Elum and Kittitas might catch your interest.
Directions
Take Highway 240 northwest out of Richland, following signs for Vantage. Just after crossing the Columbia River over the Vernita Bridge, take a left onto Highway 243. Follow 243 past the town of Mattawa and you’ll soon come upon Beverly. The Highway travels underneath the Railroad Bridge, but you’ll want to take a right onto Lower Crab Creek Road before then. Turn left onto Seattle Street in the middle of town and follow the street to the trailhead at its terminus. Enjoy a stroll across the Columbia River and don’t forget to pack a windbreaker!
