New Ravine Trail Completed in Upper Luther Burbank Park

The first phase of the Ravine Trail in is complete, according to a city press release.

The result of many hardworking agencies and individuals, park users now have another beautiful trail to enjoy on Mercer Island. The trail was identified as a project in the Luther Burbank Master Plan in 2006 and funding comes from the County Parks and Regional Trails Proposition 2, passed in August of 2007. A portion of that levy goes to each city for regional trails.

The head of the trail showcases a new staircase with the far end of the trail providing access to the creek in the ravine for the first time. According to City Natural Resources Specialist Alaine Sommargren, there's about 670 feet of brand-new trail.

Paul West, Parks Natural Resources Coordinator for the City of Mercer Island, explained that the staircase was the most difficult part of the project.

"The staircase was the nail biter," he said. "We didn't know how difficult it was going to be. We made it through with the help of an expert framing carpenter. Everyone stretched to make this happen."

To locate the trail: at the stoplight at SE 28th and Island Crest Way, head East on SE 28th, up the hill (the road turns into 84th Ave SE). Continue up to SE 32nd (private) where hikers can park on the street and find the trail head. The staircase that enters the ravine trail can be found by heading down into the first ravine and staying left.

The following individuals and organizations were recognized for their work to develop the Upper Luther Ravine Trail:

• crew
• Mike Stenger and Natural Systems Design
• Blaze Bresko and Swenson Say Faget structural engineers
• Tim Strange and JAS Design/build
• Margaret Ullman and Mountains to Sound Greenway
• Chip Barnett and Geoengineers
• Jeff Pedersen and Rusty's Mobile Fabrication
• Pile King
• Pacific Rim Rentals
• Mike Marshall PLS
• Seattle Tree Preservation
• Compton Lumber

Additional images and information about the new trail is available on the City website by clicking here.