This page is intended to be a forum for Maple Valley neighbors to share things to do within a 30-minute drive — especially activities right here in Maple Valley. Have a suggestion? Just email your favorite activities to mvp@maplevalleypost.com. Be sure to include your first and last name. Please include directions, tips, and/or links, if possible. If you’d like to add to an existing entry, email that, too.
Cedar River Trail
We like to take family bike rides along the paved portion of the Cedar River Trail — the trail the follows State Route 169 from Maple Valley into Renton. The smooth pavement is great for little cyclists, even those using training wheels.
Tip: You can drop your bikes at the end of the bridge over the river and walk down the steps for some quality rock throwing and — on warm days — wading in the water.
Getting there: We like to park in the gravel lot along State Route 169 across from Foley’s produce stand, just north of the Testy Chef.
Link: Cedar River Trail
– Casey Combs Henry
Shadow Lake Bog
The Shadow Lake Bog is a preserved and protected wetland. A boardwalk runs through it so you can enjoy the natural plants and animals. At the end of the boardwalk an overlook is mounted so you can see the forest from above. There is also a big amphibian pond at the end of the loop.
Getting there: The entrance to the bog is at 21656 184th Avenue S.E., which is off Peter Grubb Road.
Tip: Bring your camera.
Link: Shadow Lake Bog
– Aedan Henry
