the public to Trafton, 4 miles up the valley.)

This year, contractors are working on the final portion of the Centennial Trail, which is named after the state centennial because construction was started in 1989 — from Bryant to the Skagit County line. Or at the very least, it will reach Pilchuck Creek, named for a turn-of-the-century logging community north of Bryant.

Due to a big washout, county officials are not sure the last section, from Pilchuck Creek to Skagit County, will be done this year or next.

The president of the Snohomish County Trail Coalition, Beth Hill, keeps horses on a piece of property adjacent to the trail in Marysville, and rides the trail often.

She has been involved in the campaign to build the trail since 1988, when she read a notice in the paper about a public meeting concerning the trail. She is actively involved in turning the CT bridge in Arlington into a Bridge of Flowers.

Some bikers may know about the trail through rides organized by BIKES of Snohomish County, or the Cascade Bike Club’s RSVP (Ride from Seattle to Vancouver to Party).

Except for a 12-mile gap between Snohomish and Bothell, Seattle-area residents could hop the trail from their doorstep and spend a night in Arlington.

The trail is wonderful for all: You can walk a mile, then head to the bakery or a pub, or do the 56-mile round-trip, and head to the hot tub.