The best walks and hikes around Grapeview

The Penrose Point State Park Loop offers a serene escape into a rich, second-growth forest, where Douglas-fir and Western red cedar tower above a lush understory of ferns. This easy 2.4-mile (3.8 km) hiking route, with only 182 feet (55 metres) of elevation gain, provides a gentle journey through diverse scenery. You'll find yourself on relatively flat terrain, with a slight climb to a bluff above Mayo Cove, leading to stunning views of Mount Rainier across Delano Bay.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with ample parking available at Penrose Point State Park. The trail typically takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes to complete, making it a great option for a shorter outing. For a unique experience, aim to visit during low tide, which allows you to walk along a sandbar and potentially discover Native American petroglyphs on an exposed spit in the inner cove.

This trail is particularly family-friendly, offering a tranquil setting away from more crowded areas. Beyond the scenic forest and coastal views, the park is known for its abundant wildlife, including deer, seals, and bald eagles. It's a perfect spot for a relaxed walk, birdwatching, or enjoying a picnic by the water.

Hike the moderate 4.9-mile Key Central Forest Loop through dense woods near Gig Harbor, featuring Vaughn Creek and a quiet atmosphere.

The Jarrell Cove State Park Loop offers a delightful, easy hiking experience through a lush forested landscape, perfect for a quick escape into nature. You'll walk beneath towering Douglas firs and Western red cedars, with the forest floor often covered in ferns and moss. A highlight is the small clearing providing picturesque views of Jarrell Cove, where you might spot sailboats, adding a touch of maritime charm to this tranquil 0.7-mile (1.1 km) route.

This family-friendly trail is accessible for nearly any fitness level, with only 47 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of just 18 minutes. The path is a mix of gravel, pavement, and unpaved surfaces, mostly flat, but sturdy footwear is recommended for uneven sections. Parking is available at Jarrell Cove State Park, which is accessible by both land and water.

Beyond the natural beauty, the trail is notable for its rich history, with informational plaques detailing the region's past, including its indigenous heritage. Keep an eye out for wildlife like herons, hawks, eagles, and deer, or explore the shoreline for clams, oysters, and crabs, especially during low tide. It's a great option for a beginner hike or a peaceful outing.

Haley's Lagoon Trail offers a delightful journey through varied terrain, starting in an older cut area before winding into a peaceful second-growth forest. As you progress, the path descends into a picturesque ravine, leading you to a richly vegetated area that opens up to a tidal estuary. The ultimate reward is a quiet, driftwood-strewn beach on Case Inlet, perfect for a peaceful escape and enjoying the extensive tide flats.

This easy hiking route is a quick 1.4 miles (2.2 km) with only 38 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 36 minutes to complete. While current facilities are minimal, future plans include a small parking lot, picnic shelter, and bathroom facility at the trailhead, with construction anticipated by 2025. It's a great option for a short, accessible outing, and checking Haley's Lagoon Trail weather conditions before your visit is recommended.

This undeveloped State Park holds historical significance, having been owned by the Haley family of Brown and Haley candy company fame before being donated to Washington State Parks. The property is notable for its remote beach access, providing a tranquil experience despite some nearby homes. Planned enhancements include widening portions of the trail and adding an ADA-accessible asphalt trail to an overlook, making it even more welcoming for families and all visitors.

The Penrose Point State Park loop offers a delightful and easy hiking experience, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll wander through lush forests filled with madronas, maples, and firs, then emerge onto bluffs overlooking Mayo Cove. The highlight is definitely the beach access, especially at low tide, where you can explore a sandbar and spit, perhaps even spotting ancient petroglyphs. This 2.6-mile (4.1 km) route, with a gentle 212 feet (65 metres) of elevation gain, is an easy hike that takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes, making it ideal for families or anyone wanting a peaceful nature walk.

Planning your visit to Penrose Point State Park is straightforward, as the trails are generally quiet despite the park's popularity. You can enjoy this loop year-round, as it typically remains snow-free, even in the colder months. Parking is available on-site, and while it's not usually an issue, arriving earlier on busy days ensures you'll find a spot easily. No special permits are required for hiking this trail.

What truly sets this trail apart is its blend of forest and marine environments, offering diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Keep an eye out for deer, seals, blue herons, and bald eagles as you explore the varied habitats. The park also features an interpretive nature trail, "A Touch of Nature," providing insights into the area's geology and history, adding an educational layer to your easy hike.