Riley Ranch Nature Reserve
When I first started to hike Bigs Canyon Trail from Sawyer Park I always wondered about that large grassy field area on the other side. Well, I finally found out when I was told that entire area is now a park. It is between Sawyer Park and Tumalo State Park. To get there take O.B. Riley Road then turn off on Glen Vista Road.
Unlike many other parks, dogs are not allowed. They put up signs to reinforce this.
The trail is like a figure eight. You can take a short loop, medium loop or take the loop to the river to make the walk extra long. Plenty of sign markers many with miniature maps.
Most of the trail is flat, wide and paved with fine gravel. Good for a short run or jog. Not for everyone if you are not into a flat trail and just views of the field and mountains. Now the last loop is nothing like the others with a narrow muddy steep hike with switchbacks.
The Canyon Loop Trail is the most interesting. Views of the river, large rock cliffs and an old settler cabin before the 1900s.
But Sage Flat Loop does have some nice overlooks including a wooden deck that hangs over the edge with views like this. Was not a good day for taking photos so I may replace these pics later on.
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