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Bring along a light snack and some water and expect this simple day hike to lift your spirits and make you feel relaxed. The initial start to the trail is rather steep, and I've slipped down it a number of times. However, once you've traversed that little obstacle, the trail continues on relatively level ground, following the babbling Crooked River. It's a trail that is mostly shaded and cool, thanks to the mixed foliage and the nearby water. You can jump off in quite a few spots and spend hours reading on a rock with your toes dangling in the cold mountain stream.
The trail is well-maintained for the first mile and a half, but there is one point at which you need to traverse the river to continue further along the 8-mile trail. Currently, there are no easy ways to cross without stepping into the river - this is not difficult when the water level is low and the flow is not strong, but you will get wet regardless. There are no rocks to hop or trees to act as bridges. At the end of the short part of the trail is a small campground (you'll pass a few others on your way in as well), so you can bring a pack and camp. It's a good route for the kids--a weekender--or if you're just getting into hiking/camping/backpacking, as it doesn't stress you out. You're still able to walk back to the car if you forgot something. Parking at the trailhead, as well as just past the trailhead. Open year-round if you have 4-wheel-drive (it's where we go to cut our Christmas tree each year).
From journals
The Real Wild, Wild West