The best walks and hikes in Thurston County

The Tumwater Falls Trail offers a delightful, easy stroll through a lush, green environment, following the Deschutes River as it cascades over impressive multi-tiered waterfalls. This 0.7-mile (1.2 km) loop is incredibly accessible, with only 37 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect 18-minute outing for anyone. You'll experience the dynamic soundscape of the falls and pass by the historic Olympia Brewery building, all on a well-maintained path of pavement and gravel.

Planning your visit is simple, as the park is conveniently located just minutes from Olympia and Interstate 5, offering ample free parking right at the trailhead. Restrooms and picnic facilities are available, and the park is open year-round and free to enter. It's also a dog-friendly spot, provided your canine companion stays on a leash, making it an easy choice for a quick outdoor escape.

Beyond its natural beauty, Tumwater Falls holds significant historical importance as the site of Washington's oldest permanent non-Native settlement on Puget Sound. From late August through December, you can witness the incredible annual salmon run, as Chinook and Coho salmon use the fish ladders to bypass the falls, a truly fascinating spectacle that adds another layer of wonder to this family-friendly destination.

Embark on a moderate urban hike through Olympia, covering 5.2 miles (8.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 129 feet (39 metres). This route offers a pleasant 2 hours and 10 minutes of exploration, guiding you past the serene waters of Capitol Lake and providing expansive views of the majestic Washington State Capitol building. You will experience a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for many, including those using wheelchairs. Parking is typically available in the area, and the urban setting means you are always close to amenities. Remember to bring a water bottle; you can easily refill it at the Artesian Well along the way.

This trail stands out for its rich urban exploration experience, showcasing monuments, parks, and seasonal cherry blossoms that add vibrant color to your journey. You will enjoy viewpoints like Heritage Park, offering sweeping vistas of the Legislative Building dome and downtown Olympia. It is a notable way to connect with the city's history and natural surroundings.

The Twin Barns Loop Trail provides an easy 1.3 miles (2.0 km) hike through the diverse ecosystems of the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. You will experience minimal elevation gain, just 7 feet (2 metres), over about 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick outing or for those new to hiking. As you follow the route, you will pass through wetland areas, grasslands, freshwater marshes, and sections of tidally-influenced forests, with the Twin Barns observation platform offering expansive views of the marshlands.

To access the refuge and enjoy this trail, you will need either a national parks pass or to pay a daily fee of $3 on-site. Please note that pets are not allowed on any of the refuge trails, so plan accordingly. For your best chance to spot the abundant wildlife, consider visiting during the early mornings or evenings.

This route is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural environment of the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Keep an eye out for frequent sightings of bald eagles, great blue herons, river otters, and various waterfowl that call this area home. The trail offers a gentle introduction to the refuge's rich biodiversity and its important conservation efforts.

Discover the Chickadee, Alderwood, and Field Loop, an easy hiking route that guides you through a peaceful riparian environment. As you hike, you'll experience varied forest terrain, transitioning from sections dense with alder trees to wide-open fields. This gentle loop covers 3.1 miles (5.1 km) and involves a modest elevation gain of 68 feet (21 metres), making it accessible for nearly everyone. You can comfortably complete the entire route in about 1 hour and 17 minutes, enjoying the serene atmosphere. It's a perfect choice if you're looking for a relaxed outdoor experience without strenuous climbs.

To begin your hike, head to LBA Park, where ample parking is typically available near the trailhead. This route is generally accessible and well-suited for a casual outing, making it a great option for a morning or afternoon stroll. Before you set out, it's always a good idea to check local park signs for any specific regulations or seasonal changes that might affect your visit. Planning your trip during daylight hours ensures you have plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings.

This trail offers a wonderful opportunity to observe local wildlife within its diverse natural setting. Keep an eye out for various bird species, including the charming chickadees that give the trail part of its name, as well as other small animals. The mix of forest and open fields creates a dynamic ecosystem, providing a refreshing escape into nature right within the park. It's a notable option if you appreciate a varied landscape on your walks.

The Creekside Trail and Yelm-Tenino Trail Loop is a charming and accessible hike that offers a surprising variety of scenery for its length. You'll wander through peaceful second-growth forests, pass through the quiet Creekside Conservancy protecting local wildlife, and enjoy views of Mill Pond, a popular spot for birdwatching. This easy 3.3-mile (5.4 km) loop, with just 182 feet (56 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed outing and takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes.

To plan your visit, head to Tenino City Park, which is a great starting point for the loop. The trail is enjoyable in all seasons, but if you're hiking after heavy rains, consider wearing waterproof footwear as some sections can get muddy. The route is family-friendly and includes a paved, ADA-accessible segment, making it welcoming for many different users.

This loop is notable for its historical connections, incorporating a former railroad corridor and passing near Tenino City Park, which features remnants of the town's quarrying past. It's also a fantastic spot for wildlife observation, particularly around the Creekside Conservancy and Mill Pond. Despite its accessibility and diverse features, the trail often remains quiet, offering a serene escape.

Embark on the Green Diamond Trail for a moderate hike through the ecologically rich Kennedy Creek Natural Area Preserve. This route covers 3.3 miles (5.3 km) and features a steady climb of 1001 feet (305 metres), taking you about 1 hour and 39 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will enjoy views of the estuary and Kennedy Creek, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area. The trail provides a balanced outdoor experience, perfect for those seeking both activity and scenic rewards.

Planning your visit to the Green Diamond Trail is straightforward, as the route is accessible throughout the year. During November weekends, you might find the gate open, allowing you to drive directly to the salmon trail's starting point for prime viewing opportunities. The sections dedicated to salmon viewing are mostly ADA accessible, making it a welcoming destination for a wide range of visitors. Always check local conditions before heading out.

This trail is particularly notable for its wildlife viewing, especially during the fall and winter months when shorebirds frequent the mudflats. In the fall, you can observe spawning salmon up close in Kennedy Creek, with interpretive signs along the way explaining the area's natural history and diverse wildlife. The preserve offers a unique chance to connect with a vibrant ecosystem and learn about its conservation efforts.

Explore the McLane School Forest Trail, an easy 4.0 miles (6.5 km) hike that winds through varied landscapes. You will encounter dense forests of Bigleaf maples and Douglas fir, transitioning into open meadowlands. The route offers a gentle ascent of 122 feet (37 metres) and typically takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete, providing a peaceful outdoor experience.

When planning your visit, be aware that parking at the McLane Creek Nature Trail entrance requires a Discover Pass. If you prefer, the trail is also accessible by public transport, offering a convenient alternative. You are welcome to bring your dog along, but remember to keep them on a leash throughout your hike. This ensures a pleasant experience for all visitors and protects local wildlife.

The McLane School Forest Trail is notable for its rich natural environment, where you can learn about native plant species through interpretive signs. During the fall, a significant highlight is observing chum and coho salmon spawning in McLane Creek from dedicated viewing platforms. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like birds, squirrels, and deer as you explore the area.

Embark on an easy hike along the Darlin Creek Preserve: Lake Loop Trail, a gentle 1.3-mile (2.1 km) route that takes about 33 minutes to complete. You will experience a peaceful landscape of recovering forest and diverse wetlands, with only 62 feet (19 metres) of elevation gain. As you follow the path, enjoy tranquil views of Lake Lucinda and keep an eye out for Darlin Creek, an important salmon habitat. You might even spot several beaver dams and ponds, adding to the natural charm of this accessible loop. In spring, the trail bursts with color from native wildflowers like western trillium and salmonberry among the mixed trees.

Planning your visit to Darlin Creek Preserve is simple, as the trailhead is conveniently located just 15 minutes from downtown Olympia. You will find free parking readily available right at the start of the trail, making access hassle-free. For your comfort, a portable toilet with hand sanitizer is provided at the trailhead. This easy loop is perfect for a quick escape into nature, and its short duration means you can enjoy it at almost any time of day. Consider visiting in the morning for a fresh start or in the late afternoon for a peaceful stroll.

This trail offers a unique opportunity to explore a landscape undergoing recovery, showcasing the resilience of nature. The preserve protects important wetlands and Darlin Creek, which serves as a vital salmon habitat. Observing the beaver dams and ponds along the way provides a glimpse into the active ecosystem. The mix of deciduous and coniferous trees creates a varied and interesting environment throughout the seasons, making it a notable natural spot in the region.

The Mima Falls, Lost Valley, and McKenny Loop offers a deep dive into the diverse landscapes of Capitol State Forest. You'll trek through dense forests of Douglas fir and western hemlock, discover the serene Mima Falls cascading over rocky steps, and explore the lush, biodiverse Lost Valley with its footbridges and rich plant life. The McKenny Trail section then challenges you with steeper inclines, rewarding your effort with expansive views over the forest.

Planning your visit to this difficult 21.5-mile (34.6 km) hike, which includes 2374 feet (724 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 9 hours and 45 minutes, requires a Discover Pass for parking at the Mima Falls Trailhead. The trail is open year-round, but conditions can change, so check ahead. Starting early is key to enjoying the full loop, and be mindful that it's a multi-use trail shared with equestrians and mountain bikers.

This extensive loop is a fantastic way to experience the ecological richness of Capitol State Forest, known for its varied flora like elderberry, salmonberry, and moss-covered maples. Keep an eye out for black-tailed deer and various bird species, especially in the secluded Lost Valley. The trail's proximity to the unique Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve also adds an interesting geological dimension to your adventure.