Lake Twentytwo consists of 800 acres of pristine forest surrounding the lake and its outlet stream that were set aside in 1947 as a Research Natural Area to study the effects on water, wildlife, and trees of an area off limits to logging compared to areas that were logged. Well, duh! As a result of the set aside, the area is lush with hemlock, silver fir, and especially huge western red cedar. The understory has ferns, moss on the boulders and rotting logs, and a variety of shrubs characteristic of a western Washington forest. All of these are ingredients for a wonderful hike with a camera.
Photo © copyright by Stephen Penland.