Several short paths provide fun day hikes in the Darrington area. Old Sauk Trail (No. 728) is an easy three-mile stroll that departs from Clear Creek Campground, four miles south of Darrington. The trail parallels the Sauk River, passing riverside alder stands and moss-covered cedar stumps. Salmon and steelhead spawn in Murphy Creek at the southern end of the Old Sauk Trail.

A three-mile path, Beaver Lake Trail (No. 629), starts across from White Chuck Campground, 10 miles south of Darrington. The trail sits atop an old railroad grade and crosses beaver ponds where you’re likely to see ducks and herons. It continues through a beautiful stand of old-growth cedar trees at the upper end before looping back to the Mountain Loop Highway. Both of these are also good for mountain bikes.

Another hike through virgin timber is the Boulder River Trail (No. 734). Get here by heading 8.2 miles west from Darrington, turn south onto French Creek Road 2010, branch right after a mile, and then follow it another 2.8 miles to the trailhead. In addition to thick old-growth forests, this four-mile trail passes a delightful series of Boulder River waterfalls and cascades.