The best walks and hikes in Thurston County

Discover the Tumwater Falls Trail, an easy 0.7-mile (1.2 km) loop that offers a refreshing escape. This short hike, taking around 18 minutes, features a gentle elevation gain of 37 feet (11 metres) as you follow the Deschutes River. You'll experience the river's lively flow as it cascades over multiple waterfalls, creating a dynamic soundscape. The path winds through a scenic gorge, where you can observe deep pools and unique rock formations. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in nature without a strenuous effort.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is open year-round and free of charge. You will find ample parking available at Brewery Park, making access convenient for drivers. This route is also family-friendly, and you can bring your dog along, provided they remain on a leash. Consider visiting during the autumn months to witness the salmon runs, a unique natural spectacle.

Beyond the natural beauty, the trail offers glimpses of the historic Olympia Brewery, adding a touch of local heritage to your walk. You can also get up close to the thundering lower falls and observe the fish ladders, which are particularly active during the salmon migration season. This easy loop provides a compact yet rich experience, highlighting both the natural and historical aspects of the area.

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 offers an easy hiking experience, covering 3.3 miles (5.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 182 feet (56 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 25 minutes. As you hike, you will transition between diverse landscapes; one moment you are on the smooth, paved surface of the Yelm-Tenino Trail, passing wetlands and rural scenes where you might spot herons near McIntosh Lake. Then, the route shifts to the quieter, wooded paths of the Creekside Conservancy Trail, winding through regenerating forestland on a dirt and gravel surface.

This loop is easily accessible, starting from Tenino City Park where parking is typically available. The Yelm-Tenino Trail portion is paved and ADA-friendly, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for this trail, so you can plan a spontaneous outing without extra hassle. Consider visiting during the spring or fall to enjoy the changing foliage and comfortable temperatures.

The trail provides a unique blend of natural settings, showcasing both open rural landscapes and dense forest. You will encounter Mill Pond, a known spot for various bird species, and sections of older second-growth forest within Tenino City Park. Keep an eye out for wildflowers and mushrooms, which add seasonal interest to the route. This trail is a great option if you are looking for a varied and straightforward outdoor experience.

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.

Step into a dense West Coast rainforest on the Kennedy Falls Trail, where you will navigate rugged terrain featuring roots, muddy sections, and fallen trees. This easy hike covers 3.6 miles (5.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 264 feet (80 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete. Along the way, you will discover the impressive ancient "Big Cedar Tree" before reaching the beautiful cascading Kennedy Falls, offering a truly immersive experience.

When planning your visit, be aware that trail conditions can change quickly, especially between November and March when you might encounter icy patches. Heavy rain can also make the route very muddy and creek crossings more challenging. Always carry an offline map and be prepared for the rugged ground, even though the overall elevation gain is moderate for this trail.

This route is nestled within the Kennedy Creek Natural Resources Conservation Area, protecting a vital part of the region's natural heritage. The highlight, the "Big Cedar Tree," is estimated to be over 600 years old, standing as a testament to the ancient forest ecosystem you are exploring. The trail offers a unique opportunity to connect with this old-growth environment and its natural features.