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Capitol Lake loop from Olympia

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Capitol Lake loop from Olympia

Moderate

2.5

(19)

hikers

Capitol Lake loop from Olympia

02:20

8.89km

70m

Hiking

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

302 m

Heritage Park and View of Washington State Capitol

Highlight • Viewpoint

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.

Tip by

1.89 km

View of the Washington State Capitol

Highlight • Viewpoint

2.01 km

Capitol Lake

Highlight • Lake

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.

Tip by

3.01 km

View of Capitol Lake from the South

Highlight • Viewpoint

4.47 km

View of the River Upstream from the Footbridge

Highlight • Viewpoint

8.89 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

8.67 km

184 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

5.33 km

1.94 km

1.38 km

183 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (50 m)

Lowest point (0 m)

Weather

Today

Monday 6 July

29°C

9°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Description

If you're looking for an easy, scenic escape right in the city, the Capitol Lake loop from Olympia is a fantastic choice. This moderate 5.5-mile (8.9 km) hiking route, with just 236 feet (72 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 2 hours and 19 minutes. It's an ideal outing for families, those with strollers or wheelchairs, or anyone seeking a leisurely walk with high visual payoff.

What to expect on Capitol Lake loop from Olympia

The route around Capitol Lake is a delightful urban oasis, mostly paved with some gravel sections, making for smooth going underfoot. As you follow the shoreline, you'll be treated to iconic views of the Washington State Capitol building, often beautifully reflected in the water, and glimpses of the downtown Olympia skyline, Puget Sound, and the distant Olympic Mountains. The trail winds through Heritage Park, offering green spaces and picnic areas, and you might spot local wildlife like birds or otters. This largely flat path is easy on the legs and perfect for a relaxed stroll, making it a great option for almost any activity level.

Planning your visit

The Capitol Lake loop is designed for convenience, with free parking readily available near the trailhead. You'll find excellent amenities along the way, including drinking fountains for both humans and dogs, restrooms, and doggy bag stations, making it a truly dog-friendly option. Interpretive markers provide insights into local history, adding an educational layer to your walk. This trail is enjoyable year-round, but a sunny morning or late afternoon offers the best light for those stunning Capitol reflections.

Trail details