This Beautiful Boardwalk Trail In Oregon Is The Most Unique Hike Around
By Catherine Armstrong|Published September 05, 2018
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
The Beaver State has so many hiking trails that even the most dedicated hiking enthusiast could spend a lifetime exploring them. From mountain peaks to beach strolls, there’s something for every hiker here. While some of our most beautiful trails take you to stunning waterfalls or a hidden oasis, others are less about the destination and more about the scenery along the trail. Here’s a boardwalk trail that has some of the most unique natural beauty you’ll ever see.
As you're driving down U.S. 101 near Florence. you'll see a sign for the Darlingtonia State Natural Area. It's just a small little blip along the highway, but you'll want to stop and take a look.
This 18-acre preserve exists for just one reason: to protect the Darlingtonia californica. This park is the only state park in all of Oregon that's dedicated to the protection of just one plant species.
But, oh what a species it is! Darlingtonia californica is also called the cobra lily, and you can see why from this photo. The tube-like plant stands 10-20 inches tall, with a leafy top that bends over and kind of looks like the head of a snake. The forked appendages underneath look like the forked tongue of a snake, if you use your imagination a bit.
These unique plants are carnivorous. They trap unsuspecting insects that land near the opening at the top, where the plant produces an inviting nectar. The insects become confused and lost inside the plant. They end up sliding down the tube, which is lined with little hairs, to the bottom, where they decompose and become nitrogen to feed the plant.
Don't be shy — get right down on the boardwalk and peer closely at these feisty plants — they're fascinating to view up close. Please stay on the boardwalk, though — the plants are protected, and it's illegal to damage or remove them.
Darlingtonia State Natural Site is a day-use only park, and it's free to visit. The park offers modern restrooms with flush toilets for your convenience.
Have you explored the Darlingtonia State Natural Site? If you love everything about Oregon’s natural beauty, you might want to join our Oregon Nature Lovers Group, where you can see gorgeous photos taken all across the Beaver State, and even submit your own.
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