Green River College Trails Lets Students Decompress
By: Riley Cottingham
Staff Writer
Few colleges are built with a gateway into luscious wildlife quite like Green River.
Near the college are woods full of trails, some leading straight down to the river. Students can spend hours on the trails hiking, jogging, or simply reflecting amidst tall evergreens that nearly cover the entire sky from their view.
Daphyn Cammack, 36, a student of Green River College and volunteer in the natural resources department, started spending most of her time outdoors when she was only two. She typically goes on hikes at least two times a month and has explored Green River College’s expansive trails, so she has some advice for new hikers who are eager to do the same.
“It’s really important to wear shoes, sturdy but comfortable. Always bring water and snacks and a flashlight. Have a basic first aid,” said Cammack. Trail maps of Green River are also provided by the student help desk. She also recommends not going off-trail due to some hazards in the area.
During winter and fall light rain pours constantly in Washington, so walking in the mud is something for hikers to consider when planning to go on a hike.
One thing that is learned from the combined experience of all hikers is that the main obstacle of hiking in these conditions is slipping on mud. The most popular solutions are bringing shoes and other gear that can withstand the mud during this seemingly never-ending wet season, or simply waiting for a warm day.
The natural resources department has built the trails slowly over the years since the college was founded so hikers have plenty of adventures to choose from. Some hiking trails are flat and family-friendly, while others are steep, brutal, and hard to walk on.
“Our Overlook trail is perfect for families. One of the entrances to the trail system is right by cedar hall,” said Cammack. The Overlook trail is marked “Foundation trail (paved)” on the map. It also has an amazing landscape.
“There’s a trail called Katie’s trail. That takes you down to the river quickly. It’s really steep and is really pretty. You can get there by [Parking Lot 5],” said Cammack. She considers Katie’s trail to be a moderately difficult hike, although some of its most exhausting points can be avoided by using short round-about trails.
Parts of the trail Deadhorse Canyon can be difficult, but it eventually leads to a secluded reserve with a group of several boulders to safely climb on or simply look at and admire from the ground.
There are also some trails to explore that are not shown on the map. As tempting as it may be to discover what lies beyond these mysterious paths, it is important to note that they may not be completed and make some unprepared hikers lost and far from the bounds of the Green River campus.
The trails at Green River provide an excellent way to release all the stress of classes, work, or other adult responsibilities. They are also a place to self-reflect within the simple yet indescribable pleasure of becoming one with nature.
Photo Cred: Rakesh Kommanagunta
