Ira Spring Wetland — Wednesday, Apr. 15, 2026

We hiked mid-week and when we arrived mid-afternoon there were two cars at the trailhead. By the time we got back, it was just us. The road is fine for all cars. Sections of it are dirt with a few potholes, but nothing too bad. 

There's a privy at the trailhead that was clean and stocked. 

The trail is everything to love about the rainforest. Green and lush and nurse logs covered with baby trees everywhere. We heard some Pacific wren singing, too. 

We took the loop, starting by going on the wetland section (a left turn at the signed junction). The trail was in good condition with a few wet spots. The return part of the loop is on the main Bogachiel trail and it's quite muddy in many spots. I definitely ended up with wet feet and our dogs need a thorough toweling off when we got back to the car. Note: This loop does not enter the national park, so dogs are OK to bring. I'd love to explore the Bogachiel farther later, but the dogs will have to stay home for that. 

There are a few log bridges on the loop. Most are pretty easy, but a few would be challenging if you're not sure of your balance. I think all of them could have been waded across safely if you were prepared to get wet shoes and pants. 

On the way back, it started hailing quite a lot and, distracted, we passed a turn off that we thought was the beginning of the loop, but was actually the way back. It quickly became clear we were on the wrong route. But hey, don't be like us. Look at the signs and you won't have to walk extra while it's hailing. 

This hike was part of a day trip to celebrate our 20th anniversary, and it was a delight to be outside. Even with hail.