Paradise Valley Conservation Area

On Saturday, March 22nd Cam Bradley, Ida Callahan, Kendra Wanzenried, and I carpooled to the Paradise Valley Conservation Area for a leisurely morning walk through old second-growth coniferous forest, alder and maple woods, and a ridge wetland. We were graced with intermittent sun rays shining through the foliage and a cacophony of bird song. We didn’t ‘see’ many birds, however, my phone picked up at least 16 different voices. Although we didn’t see any of the larger critters that hang out in this area, we did observe signs of deer. 

After some conversation, it was decided the hike was about 5.5 miles in length with a total elevation gain of 440 feet completed in 3 hours. Since the area had experienced some heavy rain prior to the hike, there were some muddy places I did not encounter when I checked it out a couple of weeks before. However, it did not appear to pose a problem for any one of us. We all thought it well worth the time for a low-land winter outing. 

Following the hike, we enjoyed a wonderful lunch at the infamous Maltby Café which doesn’t seem to have changed much over the years other than the cinnamon rolls appear to be four times as big!!!! I heard no complaints from anyone. It was so nice to gather with friends to enjoy a true gem, easy to access and navigate, and fairly close for many CAI-PNW members. 

Submitted by Joanie Pryor