We stumbled upon this little trail one morning when we were running behind. It was already getting hot outside, and I knew we needed to hike and bike and explore in the shade. A completely cool, shady trail can be hard to find here, but this one is just perfect. We were here during the heat of the day, and nobody was too hot!
The Waterline Extension really does have everything kids love – trees, birds, squirrels, a gentle creek, lots of foliage, and a bridge. We can easily spend 2 hours along this trail, and we only go less than a mile (out and back).
There are a few parking options (see map above). One is right by the little foot bridge. The other two are on the opposite end. So the bridge can either make a great halfway stopping point to play and eat, or it’s fun to play right away for a bit, and then come back there to eat lunch before heading home.
The trail is very toddler-friendly for hiking. Our youngest (22 months) hikes it all himself, and finds plenty to catch his attention along the way – ants, leaves, flowers, trees.
Our oldest (almost 4) chooses to bike this one. The first time he biked it, he (and I!) was surprised by some of the small, but rocky, hills and those with blind corners. So there are a few places where you will want to be aware of the first couple of times you bike (if you have a young biker on a single speed, that is). For the most part, though, it is a smooth biking trail. Each time we have gone, we have run into other mountain bikers, which my son thinks is pretty neat!
There are some thorny bushes near the bridge and along the trail. The first time there, our oldest walked right into some and got small, itchy bumps all over his legs. It hasn’t been a problem since!
If you’re moving really slow (toddler-led style), you might want some bug spray. But you probably won’t need sunscreen since it’s in the shade! 🙂
If you’re a Helenan with young kids, this is such a fun trail! Maybe we’ll see you out there! 🙂
