Tips From a Pro – Trails for Every Kind of Hiker

Get your heart pumping with a quick run, explore a forest that feels a world away from the city or take the kids for a stroll—all on trails in the Olympia region.

Take a walk on the forested side with our guide on the top trails in Thurston County. Experience everything the Pacific Northwest outdoors has to offer, from dog-friendly paths to kid-friendly strolls. Here, the call of the wild beckons as a quiet and peaceful walk through old growth terrain.

Know before you go: Admission to certain trails may require a Discover Pass. Explore more information and sign up for a pass here.

Sherman Creek Loop at Capitol State Forest

Spanning 110,000 acres, Capitol State Forest is brimming with a variety of trails for all hikers, but the Sherman Creek Loop is one of our personal favorites. Prepare to travel along old growth-forested paths and calm creeks, where you'll spot both natural vistas and remnants from logging shows. If you're hiking with your four-legged companion, dogs are permitted on this trail with a leash.

Length: 7.8 Miles
Elevation Gain: 800 Feet
Discover Pass: Required
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Mima Falls Trail

If you're looking for another moderate path at the Capitol State Forest, the Mima Falls Loop will have you tackling new challenges that aren't too exhausting. You'll discover a botanical sea of plants and trees as you trek through this trail. Along with walking through maples, elderberries, and ferns, you'll eventually come across a picnic area by the Mima Falls. It's recommended to pick up a DNR trail map of Capitol State Forest before your hike; find it at the Littlerock Grocery Store (6410 128th Ave SW).

Length: 6 Miles
Elevation Gain: 803 Feet
Discover Pass: Required
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Capitol State Forest

Tumwater Falls

With a short loop trail, Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls is a perfect leisurely walk for hikers of all ages, taking approximately 20 minutes to finish. Take in gorgeous views of tumbling waterfalls and blooming flowers as a short break from an action-packed itinerary. Why not have a little picnic while sitting on a bench? Take some delectable bites to go from a nearby eatery and sit back as the birds chirp away and the water rushes down into the gorge.

Length: 0.8 Miles
Elevation Gain: 85 Feet
Discover Pass: Not required
Difficulty Level: Easy

A scenic, overhead shot of Tumwater Falls in Brewery Park, WA. visitors stand on an overlook below

Tumwater Falls at Brewery Park

Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually Wildlife Refuge

Calling all wildlife viewing enthusiasts! Hike the mild trail of the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually Wildlife Refuge, which is known as a home to a diverse array of birds, otters, seals, beavers, and other animals. Wetlands abound at this nature preserve. Pack your binoculars before embarking on the trailhead as it's recommended to watch wildlife from a safe distance. Keep an eye out for majestic species like herons and bald eagles.

Length: 4.3 Miles
Elevation Gain: 39 Feet
Discover Pass: Not Required, but admission costs $3 for adults and is free for youths (age 16 and under)
Difficulty Level: Easy

Watershed Park Trail

Did you know that this rainforest oasis used to supply nearly all of Olympia's water in the late 1800s? Here, the story of the city's original drinking water source welcomes hikers of all levels. Step along open springs and moss-covered terrain, where a piece of history seems as though it has been untouched by time.

Length: 1.4 Miles
Elevation Gain: 150 Feet
Discover Pass: Not Required
Difficulty Level: Easy

Ellis Cove Trail

This dog-friendly trail is located at Squaxin Park and is a stunning walk path for seeing trees being mirrored off the water. Traverse through jungle-like surroundings on a trail that's typically never crowded by other hikers. Capture social media-worthy photos of birds, flowers, and the vast body of water.

Length: 1.6 Miles
Elevation Gain: 114 Feet
Discover Pass: Required
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Squaxin Park

Four Cedars Outer Loop

Located at Tolmie State Park, the Four Cedars Outer Loop showcases breathtaking views of the coastal woods. Take in the native plants and wildlife species of this part of the Pacific Northwest, where fern blooms throughout the forest and seagulls fly over the shore. Bring the little ones and put a wildlife-viewing twist on a "Where's Waldo?" situation.

Length: 2 Miles
Elevation Gain: 200 Feet
Discover Pass: Required
Difficulty Level: Easy

Tolmie State Park

William Ives Trail

Situated in Lacey, the William Ives Trail offers both wooded and fairway sights as it travels through a nature preserve and the Golf Club at Hawks Prairie. Look up to see the tops of old growth trees, sit by the lake, or take a break on a bench. This uncrowded trail is a quiet escape, setting a forested backdrop for reflection and relaxation.

Length: 2 Miles
Elevation Gain: 72 Feet
Discover Pass: Not required
Difficulty Level: Easy

Chehalis Western Trail

Although the Chehalis Western Trail spans 20 miles, it's considered an easy path as the terrain is paved and mostly flat. This multi-use trail is also a local-favorite spot for horseback riding, roller blading, and biking. Since the trail is a long point-to-point path, we recommend stopping your hike whenever you feel comfortable turning back.

Length: 21 Miles
Elevation Gain: 498 Feet
Discover Pass: Not Required
Difficulty Level: Easy

Yelm-Tenino Trail

Located in Yelm, this point-to-point trail is a four-hour stroll along a paved route. Enjoy the natural views of creeks, forests, wetlands, and farmed areas. If you're looking to extend your hike, this trail intersects with the longer Chehalis Western Trail.

Length: 14 Miles
Elevation Gain: 278 Feet
Discover Pass: Not required
Difficulty Level: Easy

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