The best hikes from bus stations around Olympia
4.2
(44)
466
hikers
16
hikes
If you've ever tried to plan hiking around Olympia, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails to choose from, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, especially when you're looking for routes accessible without a car. That's where we come in: our komoot community has walked, mapped, and reviewed these trails, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the best hikes that are…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
2.00km
00:30
0m
0m
The Mission Creek Nature Park Loop offers a delightful, easy escape into nature, perfect for a quick refresh. This 1.2-mile (2.0 km) hiking trail, with a negligible 15 feet (4…
4.0
(1)
12
hikers
4.76km
01:15
40m
40m
The Washington State Capitol loop from Olympia offers a refreshing blend of urban charm and natural beauty, making it one of the best easy hikes near the Washington State Capitol.…
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7
hikers
Step into a verdant temperate rainforest on the Watershed Park Loop, a truly unique hiking experience near Olympia. This easy 4.4-mile (7.1 km) hike, with a modest 216 feet (66…
4
hikers
8.89km
02:20
70m
70m
The Capitol Lake loop from Olympia offers a wonderfully accessible and scenic hike, perfect for a relaxed outing. This moderate 5.5-mile (8.9 km) route, with a gentle 236 feet (72…
4
hikers
6.33km
01:37
30m
30m
If you're looking for the "Hazard Lake loop from Olympia High School" hiking trails, it's worth noting that a specific, well-documented trail by this name in Olympia, Washington, doesn't seem…
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Tips from the Community
Although this loop trail is short (about a mile and a half in total), it's a lot more fun to run than you'd think when looking at the map. You'll find boardwalks and occasional steep, stepped portions of trail to keep you nimble on your feet.
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Washington State Capitol is sometimes known as the Legislative Building. It was completed in 1928 after over 30 years of delay to replace the wooden frame building that was constructed in 1854.
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This 24-acre state-owned park, located right next to the Washington State Capitol building and along Capitol Lake, offers nice views of both. The trail circles the entire lake, creating a peaceful running experience.
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Watershed Park was the site of the original waterworks for the City of Olympia. Today, signs of the old waterworks can be seen in and amongst the skunk cabbage and other vegetation in the spring basin.
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Olympia takes pride in being Washington State's capitol. Olympia, 60 miles south of Seattle and Bellevue, is regarded as a cultural center, the seat of state government, and a popular stopover for travelers heading to the coast.
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In 1937, officials initiated legislation to create this 260-acre man-made lake, viewing the construction of a lake, dam, and connecting road system as a means of improving the community. As you proceed, you can catch views of the Capitol building just over the water.
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This 26-acre artificial lake at the mouth of the Deschutes River is directly behind the state capitol building. The lake is closed to the public.
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Watershed Park was the site of the original waterworks for the City of Olympia. Today, signs of the old waterworks can be seen in and amongst the skunk cabbage and other vegetation in the spring basin.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are accessible from bus stations around Olympia?
There are 16 hiking routes around Olympia that are easily accessible from local bus stations. These trails offer a convenient way to explore the region's natural beauty without needing a car.
What is the general difficulty level of bus-accessible hikes in Olympia?
Most of the bus-accessible hikes in Olympia are considered easy, with 15 out of 16 routes falling into this category. There is also 1 moderate route available for those looking for a bit more challenge. This makes the area suitable for a wide range of hikers.
What do other hikers say about the bus-accessible trails in Olympia?
The bus-accessible trails around Olympia are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 44 reviews. Hikers often praise the convenience of public transport access and the diverse natural landscapes found along these routes.
Are there any circular hiking routes accessible by bus in Olympia?
Yes, several bus-accessible routes are circular, offering a convenient loop back to your starting point. For example, the Mission Creek Nature Park Loop and the Watershed Park Loop are excellent options for a complete circuit.
Can I bring my dog on these bus-accessible trails?
Many trails in the Olympia area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash in most state parks and natural areas. Always remember to clean up after your pet.
Are there family-friendly hiking options near Olympia's bus stops?
Absolutely. Many of the bus-accessible trails are easy and relatively short, making them perfect for families. The Mission Creek Nature Park Loop is a great example, offering a gentle stroll through nature close to the city.
Where can I find trails with viewpoints or scenic overlooks?
For scenic views, consider routes that pass through areas like the Henderson Inlet and Bat Nursery, which offers expansive views of the inlet. Trails along the waterfront, such as those near Budd Inlet, also provide picturesque vistas of the Puget Sound.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on bus-accessible trails?
Olympia's diverse ecosystems are rich in wildlife. Trails near wetlands and forests, like those around Beaver Pond at McLane Creek or within Watershed Park, offer excellent chances to spot birds, beavers, and other small mammals. The region is known for its abundant birdlife.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see on these trails?
The bus-accessible trails around Olympia showcase a variety of landscapes, from lush forests and urban parks to waterfront paths along the Puget Sound and river deltas. You can experience old-growth forests, wetlands, and even unique geological formations like the Mima Mounds in the broader region.
What is the best time of year to hike these bus-accessible trails?
Olympia's trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers warm, sunny days, and fall is vibrant with changing foliage. Even in winter, many trails remain accessible, providing a peaceful, often misty, hiking experience through the evergreen forests.
Are there any easy, short hikes perfect for a quick escape?
Yes, for a quick and easy escape, the Mission Creek Nature Park Loop is just over 2 km long and takes less than an hour. Another great option is the Hazard Lake loop from Olympia High School, which is around 6 km and offers a pleasant walk.
Are there any longer, more challenging bus-accessible hikes?
While most bus-accessible routes are easy, the Capitol Lake – Washington State Capitol loop from Olympia offers a moderate challenge. This route spans over 9 km and includes some elevation gain, providing a longer and more engaging experience.
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