We came upon Starker Forestry Tour trail online when checking along the 20 for short trails we might want to check out as passing through. It's super easy to find from the 20, just a few minutes down a paved and gravel road with good signage. There's a small parking area at an intersection of roads where the tour begins.
As a tree hugger I generally cringe, plug my ears, or turn away from anything involving the removal of even one tall beauty. But I will admit, after taking the informative trail I respected the education and information provided by the tour.
The trail starts at a large covered pavilion with long benches and utilizes signposts along the short loop to help both kids and adults learn about the industry, as well as the natural inner workings of the forest. Special focus is given to beauty #15 and it's individual purpose, as well as how the environment around it has changed through the years.
The path is well-maintained, fairly flat and easy, with an even gravel surface. Seemingly in the middle of nowhere, the Starker Forestry Tour has a beautiful setting and offers a simplistic way to learn a bit more about the gorgeous Oregon forests. read more