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Port Ludlow :: a Master Planned Resort Community for All Ages :: Birding, Boating, Golfing, Hiking, & More |
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Ludlow Falls Interpretive Trail
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The Ludlow Falls Interpretive Trail is a 1/2 mile loop that is an easy walk except for a couple flights of stairs, which can be avoided if desired. The trail is normally accessed from Breaker Lane, near the Port Ludlow Associates (PLA) offices at the far west end of the Village Center. The access which used to be available from the RV campground has been closed off. Parking is allowed at the far end of the PLA lot. The Ludlow Falls Interpretive Loop can also be accessed via a utility road that intersects the Around-the-Bay trail on Paradise Bay Road. These directions assume that you access the trail from the parking lot at the end of Breaker Land. From the parking lot near the PLA offices, walk across an open "meadow" to the trailhead. The "meadow" can be a little mushy after a sustained period of November rain, but don't let that discourage you - the rest of the trail is firm all year round. |
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At the trailhead, you can either turn right or left. The sign recommends turning left and we agree; otherwise you'll get to the falls too quickly and the rest of the loop will be anti-climatic. It's a nice trail, but the falls are the best part. However, if you can't negotiate stairs, you should turn right, go over the wooden bridge that you can see from the trailhead, and just go out to the falls and back. |
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These directions assume that you turn left, follow the loop, and save Ludlow Falls to savor at the end. After you turn left at the trailhead, follow the trail into the woods to begin the 1/2 mile walk. The interpretive signs begin immediately; take time to read and enjoy them. In addition to the flora and fauna, one of the interesting things you'll see along the trail is a piece of thick wire rope that was left from logging days in Port Ludlow. After a short distance, you will find the quiet "sit and listen" area which is dedicated to Dr. Sharpe, the designer of the interpretive trail design. The benches were made from trees which fell in the 2006 winter storms. Stop a while and enjoy this sylvan environment. |
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After you continue walking, the "natural" trail turns into an asphalt utility road which leads downhill to Ludlow Creek. Stay to the right when the trail reaches the utility road. (The other end of the utility road intersects Paradise Bay Road and the Around-the-Bay trail.) After the utility road reaches Ludlow Creek, the trail then ascends two stairways. The stairways are nice and solidly built and are easy to climb. If you're in good shape, and you won't get into the way of other hikers, they are a great place to "play Rocky" (at your own risk). |
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Continues up the hill to a side spur which leads to the David Cunningham memorial and an overlook of Ludlow Falls. More benches have been placed in this area for resting and contemplation. To complete the loop, return to the trail and continue uphill through the woods. Cross the large wooden bridge with a great view of the stream below it, and walk a few more feet and you'll be back at the trailhead. Walk back through the meadow to reach your car, the Village Center, or continue your walk home. |
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Please use this trail gently - it is fragile and can easily be damaged. Stay on the trail and please keep your pets on leash so they do not trample the undergrowth or harass the wildlife! The Ludlow Falls Interpretive Trail was built on land owned by Olympic Resource Management (ORM) in 2001, by company employees and community volunteers. It was dedicated as a memorial to David Cunningham, an ORM executive who had been instrumental in protecting many natural features of the Port Ludlow area. It was then given as a gift to the community, and it's upkeep and further development were entrusted to the Port Ludlow Village Council (PLVC) Trails / Natural Resources Committee. |
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The PLVC committee developed the trail into an interpretive experience as well as a haven for solitude. In addition to a beautiful walk through the pristine forest, you will find 17 interpretive signs which provide information and an education about the natural environment and the historical past of the area you are walking through. it is a unique experience, on that Port Ludlow is very proud to offer for residents and guests alike. |
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Nationally recognized authority on interpreting the natural environment and a Port Ludlow landowner prior to his death in 2006, Dr. Grant Sharpe developed the interpretive design and directed the placement of the signs. Port Ludlow resident artist Phyllis Hansen created the artwork for the signs. |
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Port Ludlow's trails are privately owned, operated, and maintained for the residents of Port Ludlow, their guests, and guests of the resort. Dogs must be on leash and owners should bring a bag to pick up all pet waste. Because of potential fire danger, there is NO SMOKING on any of Port Ludlow's walks or trails. All users of this Port Ludlow trail assume all responsibility for their actions, including their personal safety. Please use extreme caution at all road crossings - automobile traffic does not automatically stop for pedestrians! See the notes on trails for additional comments, requests for courteous conduct, and other notes. The above description is based on information provided by the Port Ludlow Village Council Trails Committee in a handout, and on personal experience. Copies of the original PLVC Trails Committee handouts (which are shorter and do not contain any editoralizing) are available at the Bay Club and the Beach Club. |
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