Renton's Springbrook Trail is a good spot for a relaxed walk surrounded by nature in the heart of an urban district. The trail exists in two segments: the north segment begins in Black River Riparian Forest, and winds along Black River under a verdant canopy, along the edge of the county water treatment plant, under I-405 and emerges out onto Oakesdale Avenue. The second segment begins on SW 27th Street, and you may be able to use the sidewalk to connect from Oakesdale Avenue to the start of the off-street trail. This part features a highlight of the route; the 1/4-mile long boardwalk over bubbling marshes. The wetland is thick with vegetation and is a good place to spot both tree- and water-dwelling birds. The tree cover ends at the edge of the wetland, and the trail continues with little natural shade. Following the languid Springbrook Creek, the trail crosses a railroad and then comes to 41st street, which has no marked crossing points. The trail picks up across Oakesdale Avenue before coming to its conclusion on S. 180th Street.
The Springbrook Trail is hard-surfaced and wheelchair accessible. Cyclists must walk their bikes on the boardwalk. Future plans are to link the trail to neighboring regional trails including the Interurban Trail and the Green River Trail.
The boardwalk section is, nice but not representative of the entire experience. The southern end runs behind some light industrial areas and feels a bit sketchy. Wouldn't recommend for solo female runners
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