Ellis Cove Trail

The trail is located within Squaxin Park in Olympia, Washington. You can typically find parking available within the park itself, near the main trailheads for easy access to the Ellis Cove Trail.

Yes, this trail is known to be dog-friendly, making it a popular choice for pet owners. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's natural beauty for everyone.

The trail offers beauty year-round. Spring and early summer are vibrant with wildflowers and lush ferns. Autumn is particularly stunning, as the vine leaf maples along the shoreline turn a brilliant red. Visiting at low tide is also advisable if you plan to explore the rocky beach section.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access Squaxin Park or to hike the Ellis Cove Trail. It's freely accessible for visitors to enjoy.

The terrain is primarily a dirt singletrack winding through a lush forest of Douglas firs and Western red cedars. You'll encounter an undulating path with some steep sections, many of which have stairs to aid navigation. Wooden bridges cross several small streams, and the trail eventually leads to a rocky beach on Budd Inlet.

Komoot rates this trail as easy. While some sources describe it as moderately challenging due to steep sections, the presence of stairs helps manage these ascents. It's often considered a kid-friendly option, though navigating the beach at low tide can be adventurous due to downed trees.

You can expect breathtaking scenery, including views of Puget Sound, the Olympia skyline, and on clear days, the Olympic Mountains. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, raccoons, otters, salmon, and various bird species like great blue herons, woodpeckers, owls, and bald eagles. The trail also immerses you in a century-old forest.

Key highlights include the serene forest of Squaxin Park, the winding Ellis Cove Nature Trail itself, and a picturesque rocky beach on Budd Inlet. From the beach, you'll get a View of the Washington State Capitol. Keep an eye out for interpretive signs and small artworks hidden by local creatives.

Yes, the route primarily follows sections of the Ellis Cove Trail. It also briefly intersects with other paths such as the Rose Garden Trail, Beach Access Trail, and Mission Creek Estuary Trail.

Yes, the Ellis Cove Trail is generally considered a loop trail, offering a continuous journey through the diverse landscapes of Squaxin Park.

If you plan to explore the rocky beach section, it's highly advisable to visit at low tide. This makes navigating past downed trees and exploring the tidepools much easier and safer, enhancing your overall experience.