Creekside Nature Trail

The Creekside Nature Trail is the birthplace of Relational Forest Therapy. Beginning in 2012, M. Amos Clifford, the founder of the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs, with the assistance of friends and mentees, and the support of Park Manager John Roney, began guiding walks based on the principles of the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku and other influences. Many walks were guided on the Creekside Nature Trail, which proved close to ideal for supporting a wide variety of forest experiences in a small area. By 2014 these walks led to the discovery of what is now known as “The Standard Sequence,” used by guides in over 60 countries. The first formal training of Forest Therapy Guides to take place outside of Japan and Korea was held at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park in 2014. The Creekside Nature Trail was an important location. The trail has now hosted hundreds of guided Forest Therapy walks, and has been featured in National Geographic Explorer.