Columbia Breaks Interpretive Center Trail System
History
The Interpretive Center began with the desire to save an old Forest Service fire lookout, by bringing it down from the mountains to an accessible spot along a well-traveled highway. With time and exposure, a foundation was formed and the vision expanded to that of a world-class wildland fire interpretive center that would showcase the ecological role of fire and the interactions between people and wildfire. With strong public support, the Columbia Breaks Fire Interpretive Center (CBFIC) continues to develop.
Location
Near the Interpretive Center, there is a current trail, where students, adults, visitors, and locals can enjoy. This nature walk shows how wildfire has shaped the East-side forests and how people, past, and present, respond to this wildfire environment.
Education
CBFIC mission is to educate people of all ages on the historical ecological, and cultural impact of wildland fire. CBFIC offers a hands-on experience along the 3/4 miles of trail with 18 interpretive signs educating students and lifelong learners about the forest, fire ecology and history of lookouts. A curriculum kit has been developed for upper elementary and middle school students. Teachers from three school districts use the materials to take the student on an engaging trail tour of CBFIC.
Outdoor Recreation
The current nature trail is loved by visitors and locals. The City of Entiat, CBFIC, and TREAD has applied for a RCO Grant to expand the current trail to provide an accessible trail for those with disabilities. An additional traverse trail and upper loop trail will provide a single-track experience leading visitors to a viewpoint overlooking the City of Entiat and the Columbia River.
Next Steps
CBFIC’s plan is to add on to their existing trail system, TREAD has completed the trail plan in 2022, you can read this report below.
