Chehalis Western Trail, Rail trail and protected area in Thurston County, United States.
Chehalis Western Trail is a 22-mile (35-kilometer) pathway through forests, wetlands, farmlands, and suburban areas running from Woodard Bay to the Yelm-Tenino Trail intersection. The route crosses varied landscapes and offers a flat, paved surface throughout for walking or cycling.
From 1926 to 1980, Weyerhaeuser Timber Company operated a railroad line on this route to transport logs from forests to their dumping point at Woodard Bay. After the railroad closed, the corridor was converted into a public walking and cycling path.
The trail links several communities and passes by Monarch Contemporary Art Center and Sculpture Park, where outdoor art installations are visible along the route. This public path shapes regional cultural life and gives local artists space to display their work in natural surroundings.
The path has several entry points with parking available, including Woodard Bay, Chambers Lake, the area around 67th Avenue SE, and Fir Tree Road. Since the entire route is flat and paved, it remains easy to walk throughout the year and suits people of varying abilities.
The path crosses major roadways on several pedestrian bridges spanning Martin Way SE, Interstate 5, and Pacific Avenue SE. These structures allow walkers and cyclists to traverse the entire route without encountering vehicle traffic.
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