Blackbird Island in Leavenworth is the centerpiece of a system of trails that meander through the woods along the shores of the Wenatchee River. It is a great destination to get away from the gray days in Western Washington.The trails provide a cool refuge from the heat of summer and a colorful tour of golden aspen and cottonwoods in autumn. It is just a short walk to the fun shops and restaurants of the Bavarian style town. We usually enjoyed a beer and bratwurst after our stroll.

    You can access the trails by going down the moderate hill just east of downtown or from Enchantment Park, where there is ample parking and an accessible restroom.  The crushed rock and dirt trail, which serves as a cross country ski trail in winter, is mostly level. There are several mild rises on approaches to the bridges. Interpretive signs provide interesting insights to the history of the area.It is common to see salmon heading upstream to spawn in autumn and there are always opportunities for viewing birds.There are several side routes on the loop around the island which usually takes about an hour to complete. Other slightly rougher trails continue downstream  from Blackbird Island.

     Directions:Take Highway 2 to Leavenworth. Turn on Commercial Avenue to get to Enchantment Park.

Trial information:

Length: Approximately 1 mile loop

Surface: Crushed gravel,some sand, a few bumps.

Grade: Level with some moderate rises to the bridges

Difficulty: Easy wheelchair assist.

Availability: Spring through Autumn