Spring Lake Open Space is a hidden treasure within the city limits about a quarter of a mile from Highway 101 on NE 14th Street. The original 15 acres were acquired by Lincoln City in 1996, with an additional 9.7 acres added in 2000. Friends of Wildwoods and Trails created at least some of the trails that wend through the property. At the top, off of the Port Avenue parking area, a short paved trail edges the space while another rougher trail leads down to the lake. A rough one mile trail loops around the lake, and others venture up into an old clear cut.

Except the paved trail at the top, most trails are muddy and uneven, not an easy walk, but well worth it. The lake trail follows the lake edge closely most of the way, where the silty lake bottom is clearly visible through the water. At the north end of the lake, a wooden "bridge" provides narrow access to the other side. Skunk cabbage and other wetland plants fill the marshy area. There’s usually a Song Sparrow or two to serenade you as you cross.

Location: We will meet in the Spring Lake Open Space parking lot on Port Ave in Lincoln City.

This walk is sponsored by Lincoln City Parks and Recreation and Explore Lincoln City and is led by Lincoln City Audubon.