Groth Nature Preserve

The Groth Nature Preserve; also known as Lauretta Norene Forest Preserve, is a beautifully wooded area with lots of trails. I definitely will be back here in the later spring, early summer months when the trees are in full bloom, and I will share the updates, which I already know will be breathtaking! Even in the winter months though, it is still filled with towering trees considering that lots of the trees here are fir trees, which you will be able to see from my photos/videos. To make it easier to find for anyone who may have tried and been unsuccessful, it might help to know that it is literally right next to Lucky Memorial Dog Park. This is actually a great place to park since there are no other parking lots nearby. There are a couple large open fields that surround this nature preserve. Also, it is right down the street from NatureScaping of SW Washington botanical gardens and Casee Forest & Nature Trails (2 more must-see see areas). I know this information would have helped me when I first tried to find this place last summer. It is so worth seeing, so you don't want to miss out. Seriously, if you love nature, then you want to come here. It is peaceful, safe, and another Pacific Northwest hidden gem! 👍🏼

Nice trails in between big trees. Came in from the north side which means walking through the unleashed dogs area of the dog park. If you're not comfortable with dogs, try the south entry. Once we got into the woods, it was nice and cool with well established paths crisscrossing through the evergreens. There is a path that follows along the outside perimeter of the grove with great views of the mountains. The trails have small hills and valleys to traverse which makes this a little more interesting than a flat nature trail, but nothing I'd consider strenuous. Give yourself 45-60 minutes to explore. Overall a nice walk and worth the short drive out.

We love this hidden gem! We entered from the South as this map suggests, past the schools and parked on the East side of the dead end road where 2-3 cars can fit on the side without a no parking sign. There is extra parking at the school if you don't want to park on the north side (which is considerably farther from our house.) We walked through the field due North and fell in love immediately with this beautiful rainforest!!The rain was coming down but we were had a little cover which was wet. The paths, in turn were muddy since it was bare ground but well worth it. We loved the variety of plants trees, mushrooms and winding paths to explore. We are excited to put this vibrant, enchanted forest on our list of places we love to explore!

I love walking the trails. So do my dogs. Plenty of dogs run through these woods, and it's so sweet to meet new puppy friends here. The trails are very up and down. I would suggest making sure you are wearing good shoes.

One of the most special walks I’ve taken in the area with my dogs. Already love Lucky dog which which you have to walk through to get to the entry of this preserve area.