KOCHER PARK Quarterly Trail Feature : by Jenn Puckett
Fall is just around the corner! It’s a time to enjoy crisp cool weather, and leisurely walks through the autumn leaves. A great place to ex- perience the relaxing effects of the wonders of nature is Kocher Park. Frank W. Kocher Memorial Park, located off Route 487 North just be- yond the village of Lightstreet is a treasure trove of native flora and fauna, suitable for the entire family. When traveling north, look for the light blue sign on the left just before 487 Rustics.
Before you go Frank W. Kocher Memorial Park is open from dawn to dusk daily. Admission is free. Wear sturdy footwear since the trail terrain is varied. Some parts can be muddy or wet depending on the sea- son. Insect repellent is recommended. Part of the trail system is paved and handicapped accessible. Dogs are welcome at the park, but please clean up after your pets. There are stations on the trail that provide bags and disposal. There are no lifeguards, so swimming is at your own risk. Proper permits for fishing and boating are required. Alcohol is NOT permitted. A pavilion and grill are available. Bring your own charcoal. Wood fires are NOT permitted. Restrooms are available. This area is designated as Leave No Trace. Take lots of pictures and leave only footprints. There are trash receptacles available. If they are full, please pack out your trash and dispose of it properly. Use #itourcolumbiamontour on your photos and they could be the featured photos of the week on Instagram!
Trail heads begin on either side of the parking lot. Trails to the south offer a variety of terrain starting out with paved paths which gradual- ly become grassy and narrow when accessing the creek. Trees have posts with signs identifying the species. Native wildflowers bloom ev- erywhere most of the year. Throughout the trail system are benches offering opportunities to rest and savor the sights and sounds of the area. A short walk from the parking lot brings one to Fishing Creek across from mountains covered in stunning autumn color. The trail to the north follows along the creek and through meadows blanketed with greenery. A fun activity for folks of all ages is the Scavenger Hunt available on the Columbia County Conservation Districts website. Find the PDF here: columbiaccd.org/uploads/1/2/4/0/124049437/kp_scavenger_hunt. pdf . Print it off and see how many items you can check off the list. On my most recent visit, I spotted a kingfisher, heard a red-tail hawk and identified Jerusalem Artichoke blossoms. The CCCD offers free programs throughout the year and welcomes volunteers for clean-up days. To continue enjoying the park, consider helping out to keep this gem along lovely Fishing Creek beautiful.
Visit columbiaccd.org/kocher-park--johnson-flats for more in- formation and upcoming events.
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