For more than 20 years the residents of Central Kitsap have been blessed to have one of the most scenic and enjoyable walking (and running) trails available in this part of the Puget Sound.

I’m referring, of course, to the Clear Creek Trail, and thanks to the “visionaries” (people like Tex Lewis), who pioneered its development, all of the citizens who live here can enjoy this wonderful resource.

But the trail is far more than just scenic pathways through woods and farmlands; it represents a great treasure for seniors who possess the physical ability to engage in outdoor activity.

Since most of the trail is flat, and easily accessible, even seniors with limited mobility can participate in walks that will “fit” their physical capability.

By the way, there are numerous access points to the trail, including a parking lot to the east of the Sa’qad Interpretive Center (the red barn) just north of Bucklin Hill Road, the parking lot behind the All Star Lanes bowling alley, and the parking lot for the Silverdale Dog Park/Skateboard Park.

Every day that I have the opportunity to walk or run on the trail, I meet familiar faces, and occasionally enjoy a brief conversation, especially if I happen to be walking my dog, which, by the way, is yet another great feature of the trail, provided you take responsibility for picking up any little deposit your pet might leave behind.

Fortunately, the trail folks have placed plastic bag dispensers all along the trail just for such occasions.

Over the years I’ve been impressed with the volunteers that give of their time and energy to maintain the many facets of the trail. It’s a never-ending effort to keep the trail clear of debris from fallen tree limbs, overgrowth, and occasionally garbage that has been left by ill-mannered people.

I have to also acknowledge the youth “work parties” that are organized to keep the trail in good condition.

From spreading new gravel, to trimming back overgrowth, our young people have contributed significantly to this great resource.

In fact, the trail has been the beneficiary of dozens of Eagle Scout projects over the years and their names are listed on a bulletin board just outside the Sa’qad Interpretive Center.

As you can tell, I am an enthusiastic advocate for the Clear Creek Trail, and trust that seniors throughout Central Kitsap, who haven’t already discovered this great resource, will check it out.

Of course, I realize that not all seniors have the ability to engage in outdoor physical activity, but if you are able to take even short walks, what better way to stay healthy and enjoy the beauty of our area than to take a “walk on the trail.”