Clear Creek Trail hidden no more

Under the cover of trees, the Clear Creek Trail winds through Silverdale, hidden from view.

But the local trail is hidden no more and is receiving its time in the spotlight.

The Clear Creek Trail was voted “Best Hidden Hiking Trail” by viewers of King 5 television’s “Evening Magazine” as part of the program’s 15th annual Best of Western Washington contest. People who voted were entered to win the grand prize, a 2007 Honda Fit.

“The task force is delighted of course,” said Mary Zabinski, Clear Creek Task Force administrator.

Zabinski said the Clear Creek Trail is great because it winds through an urban area, making it a hidden gem in Silverdale.

“It is in the middle of an urban area so I think it’s unexpected to see it there,” Zabinski said.

Clear Creek Trail volunteers and supporters received a certificate to display the achievement and the task force hopes it will draw more volunteers to help maintain the trail.

“What remains hidden is that we’re all volunteer based,” Zabinski said. “It’s a community effort to keep it going.”

The Clear Creek Task Force formed in 1993 and the Clear Creek Trail has been growing ever since. The trail snakes through Silverdale along beaches, wetlands and woodlands.

“I think that’s part of what makes it neat,” Zabinski said. “It’s almost kind of like walking back in time to what Silverdale used to be.”

“Evening Magazine’s” prime time special featuring the Best of Western Washington winners will air at 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13 on King 5. The winner of the grand prize, a 2007 Honda Fit, also will be announced during the program.

“We’re not trying to keep the trail a secret,” Zabinski said with a smile. “We see people out on the trail, so some people are finding it.”

For more information about the Clear Creek Trail or how to volunteer to help maintain the trail, visit their Web site at www.clearcreektrail.org or e-mail clearcreektrail@yahoo.com.

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