Vancouver, WA

Since I visited the labyrinth on Mill Plain, I’ve wanted to try another one. I heard some time ago that there is a labyrinth at a Hazel Dell church, and I found it! Here’s the sign at the north end of the parking lot; pointing out the path that leads down the hill.

Don’t you love this quiet, shady path? The trees are fully grown and woodsy, but the area is still garden-like. There are tall fir, cedar, and maple trees, an ivy-covered bank, and on the other hand there are tidy privets, lilacs, rhodies, lavender, and azaleas.

When I reached the entrance to the labyrinth, I found it’s dedication plaque. The quote says, “Remember to forgive—forgiveness is the key.” It seems easy to forgive in a lovely, peaceful place like this. As you can see, the path leading into and through the labyrinth is paved with square brick-red masonry, in contrast to the background area, which is squares of gray. Makes it easy to follow.

As I wound along the red brick I heard birdsong and saw flowers and lots of green. Looking south from the labyrinth center, I could see a nicely mowed lawn bordered by lots of trees, of several varieties. Next to the trees is a lovely lilac bush. I actually saw a rabbit at the far edge of the lawn! He was so cute, and didn’t seem to care whether I noticed him or not!

Having completed my labyrinth walk, I went back out past the dedication and climbed slowly up to the parking lot, calmer and better prepared to take on the world. The path back up the hill extends the peaceful feeling of the labyrinth, so I could take more of that tranquility home with me.

Did you notice the bench that sits up behind the labyrinth sign at the top of the hill? I took a moment to sit down and think about my walk. It was every bit as wonderful as I expected! If you go, I hope you feel the same way!

Because there are two lawns, one at the top of the path, and the other below the labyrinth, kids might enjoy playing here, but I’m not sure whether dogs are welcome; it’s such a trim and well-kept garden.
The path is paved and fairly smooth. Remember, however, that the labyrinth is down a bit of a hill, and the path therefore demands some navigation.
You will find the labyrinth at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, 1220 NE 68th St Vancouver, WA 98665; phone, 360 693 1476.
From old town Vancouver, go north on Main street, and take the road to Hazel Dell rather than the freeway onramp. This puts you on highway 99. Turn right at 68th St. The church is at the top of the hill, on the left. Or, if you like, use
GoogleMaps.
The church has a website, but I didn’t find anything about the labyrinth there.