Alder Alley
Every property has its forgotten corners—those overgrown, overlooked spaces that previous owners didn't quite know what to do with. On our 5 acres, we've discovered several of these hidden areas, but none has captured our imagination quite like what we've started calling "Alder Alley."
Finding the Alley
Tucked into the eastern edge of our property, Alder Alley is a natural corridor formed by two parallel rows of alder trees. The previous owners had clearly used it as an access route at some point—we can still make out the remnants of an old track—but nature has been busy reclaiming it for the past decade.
When we first pushed through the blackberry vines and salal to explore this area, we were amazed by what we found. The alders have created a natural cathedral, their branches meeting overhead to form a living tunnel. In the filtered light below, sword ferns grow to enormous sizes, and moss covers every surface in a thick, green blanket.
The Vision Takes Shape
As we stood in that green tunnel, covered in scratches from blackberry thorns and probably hosting a few spiders in our hair, we could see the potential. This wouldn't just be cleared and forgotten—this could become something special.
Our vision for Alder Alley includes:
- A meandering walking path that preserves the cathedral-like feeling
- Strategic clearing to allow more light while maintaining the canopy
- Native plant installations that enhance rather than compete with what's already thriving
- Small seating areas tucked into natural clearings
- Perhaps a small bridge over the seasonal stream that runs through one section
Respecting What's There
One thing we've learned in our short time as land stewards is the importance of observing before acting. It would be easy to go in with chainsaws blazing, but Alder Alley has its own ecosystem that's been developing for years. We've spotted evidence of deer using it as a travel corridor, and the birds seem to love the protected environment.
So we're taking it slow. Clearing a little at a time. Watching how water moves through the space during the winter rains. Noting which plants come back with vigor and which seem to struggle. This patient approach might not make for dramatic before-and-after photos, but we believe it will result in a space that feels like it belongs.
The Bigger Picture
Alder Alley is teaching us an important lesson about land development: sometimes the best spaces are the ones that are already there, waiting to be discovered and gently enhanced rather than completely transformed. As we plan for buildings and gardens and all the other improvements we dream about, we're trying to maintain this philosophy of working with the land rather than against it.
Next time you visit Camp Greyhaven (and yes, we're already planning for visitors!), we'll take you for a walk down Alder Alley. Just watch out for the spider webs—they seem to rebuild overnight, no matter how many times we clear the path!
Have you discovered any hidden gems on your property? We'd love to hear about them!