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Aug. 2023: Previously announced work on hazard trees next to the trail, requiring a trail closure, was completed on Aug. 30 and the trail has reopened.
Over a period of years, Clark County intends to work with community partners to build a multiuse trail paralleling the 33-mile length of the county-owned Chelatchie Prairie Railroad.
In July 2008, the Board of County Commissioners approved the Chelatchie Prairie Rail with Trail Corridor Study, which includes an alignment plan and trail design guidelines.
The envisioned trail between the Burnt Bridge Creek Trail in Vancouver and the Yale Bridge in Chelatchie Prairie would accommodate walking, biking and horseback riding.
First phase
The first section of the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Trail project opened in December 2011 for use by walkers, runners, cyclists, equestrians and other outdoor recreationists.
The one-mile paved trail segment runs from the entrance road inside Battle Ground Lake State Park southwest along the Clark County Chelatchie Prairie Railroad.
View trail map
Trail users should respect private property and stay on marked trail. Users must stay off the railroad tracks.
Parking
Clark County provides three parking spaces at Battle Ground Lake State Park so people who want to access the trail can park for free.
However, other users of Battle Ground Lake State Park should be aware that a Discover Pass is required for motor vehicle access to state parks and recreation lands managed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources.
Cost is $11.50 for a one-day pass and $35 for an annual pass. For more information and to purchase passes online, go to: www.discoverpass.wa.gov.
Future plans
Clark County initially had intended to build a 2.8-mile trail, connecting Battle Ground Lake State Park with Fairgrounds Park in Battle Ground. Environmental considerations, namely wetlands, steep slopes and sensitive wildlife habitat, made the project more expensive than originally estimated.
Vicinity map - 2.8 miles (PDF)
The county will continue to apply for grants, pursue partnerships and seek nontraditional ways to build future sections of a trail that will improve pedestrian safety, enhance recreation and promote a healthy lifestyle.
Future trail segments will be developed over time as funding allows.
Related information
For more information:
Troy Pierce, project manager
Clark County Public Works
564.397.4403
troy.pierce@clark.wa.gov
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