Leonard Park to Marsh Sanctuary Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · River/Creek · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The trail can get very wet in the springtime. Come prepared with a change of footwear for post-run. Trail is also very close to private homes at certain points so be sure to recognize the property lines.

The southern quarter mile closest to Sarles has trail sections of many small rocks where some precise footing is required. The northern half in and near Leonard Park is mostly flat-packed dirt with occasional roots.

The Marsh Sanctuary has existed for decades but in the last 5-6 years, they have refocused on maintaining their 3-4 miles of trails. It is mostly an out-and-back course from Leonard Park.

It can be added on by crossing Sarles Street at the end and joining up with Merestead County Park which leads into Butler Sanctuary. The more adventurous can even head up to the Meyer Preserve via the paved Oregon Road.

The trail can also be done in the opposite direction, starting from Sarles Street, where there is a 2–3 car parking area designated for the trailhead and Marsh Sanctuary. The parking is about 25 meters south of where the trail meets Sarles. Starting from Sarles, it's possible to complete a loop on the north end by coming out of the woods and crossing Leonard Park to the other trailhead, for an overall lollipop-shaped route.

The trail meanders through the wooded section behind a housing development, so stay on the trail and respect residents.