Never heard of Ring Hill Forest? I lived in this area for more than 10 years before I heard of this hike! It's not one you will find in a hiking book or many guides, but more than likely you've driven by the area on several occasions. Ring Hill Forest is located on 320 acres of rural forest land on the west side of Snoqualmie Valley just across the bridge from Duvall.
My family set out to find Ring Hill Forest on an overcast spring morning a few weeks ago. From Woodinville-Duvall Road, turn onto NE Old-Woodinville Duvall Rd, then turn south on 232nd Ave NE. The main trailhead is on your left near the intersection of NE 162nd St. 232nd can also be accessed from Trilogy Parkway on Redmond Ridge if you're coming from the south. There is a small sign and kiosk marking the trail, and good maps available at the kiosk. Do what I do and take a picture of the trail map with your phone so you don't get lost! There is a second trailhead farther south on 232nd, but the trail system is much shorter and less developed.
Ring Hill Forest is a King County working resource land, meaning it first has use for agriculture or managed forestry and recreation as a passive secondary use. Although the area was logged in the past, it is not an active logging area at this time. There are over 2 miles of trails in Ring Hill Forest, and little elevation change, making this a great hike for small children or if you're short on time, but want to get outside. The trails are well-maintained thanks to a Washington Trails Association work party in 2013. We headed south on the uncrowded trails and towards the viewpoint, which provides some pretty great views of the Snoqualmie Valley and the Cascade foothills.
On the way back to the car, we had time to check out the other longer loops which meander through forest as well as more open areas. Watch for wildflowers in July!
An hour and a half later, we were back at the car, feeling refreshed but not exhausted. For a 2 year old, 2 30-something parents and a dog, it was a fun and relaxed morning and a exciting discovery to still be able to find a new hike right in our back yard!
Find out more information about Ring Hill Forest here.
