Twanoh State Park Loop

The trailhead for the Twanoh State Park Loop is located within Twanoh State Park. Parking is available at the park's main parking areas, which also serve visitors to the beach and campground. Follow signs for parking upon entering the park.

Yes, a Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to Washington State Parks, including Twanoh State Park. You can purchase a pass online, at park offices, or from various retailers.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Leashed pets are welcome to join you on your hike. Please remember to clean up after your dog to help keep the park beautiful for everyone.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with wildflowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular, especially if you plan to combine your hike with a swim in the Hood Canal's warm saltwater.

The terrain is varied, guiding you through lush Pacific Northwest forests. You'll find paths lined with sword ferns, pass through 'rhododendron tunnels' and groves of large cedars. The route includes a gradual uphill climb out of a ravine, followed by a switchback descent. Portions of the trail follow an old road, offering easier walking.

Yes, despite being rated as 'easy' on komoot and 'medium' or 'moderate' by others due to its elevation changes, the Twanoh State Park Loop is often described as suitable for families. The paths are well-maintained, and children as young as six have been known to complete the hike comfortably.

You'll encounter mature second-growth forest with firs, hemlocks, and old Douglas firs. Keep an eye out for the gurgling Twanoh Creek, a wooden bridge built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and 'peekaboo views' of the Hood Canal and Tahuya Peninsula through madronas and rhododendrons at higher points. Wildflowers and moss beds add to the beauty.

Many visitors to Twanoh State Park gravitate towards the expansive beach and campground. To enjoy a more serene experience on the hiking trails, consider visiting during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or weekdays, when the trails tend to be quieter.

Yes, the park has historical significance. You'll cross an attractive wooden bridge over Twanoh Creek, a structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. You might also spot springboard notches in older trees, remnants from logging in the 1890s before the area became a state park.

Basic hiking footwear is sufficient for the well-maintained paths. Dress in layers suitable for the Pacific Northwest weather, and consider bringing water, especially on warmer days. If you plan to visit the beach, swimwear might be a good addition.

While there are no facilities directly on the trail, you can find cafes and restaurants in nearby Union, Washington, which is a short drive from Twanoh State Park, perfect for a post-hike meal or coffee.