Hikes and Trails in Olympia

Here in Olympia we find pride and joy in our environment and love to enjoy all the greenery surrounding us. At the Swantown inn we are happy to share these enchanted spaces with you and are here to recommend the best of the best. Have a look at these ten scenic walking locations in the Olympia, Washington area that you may want to explore on your next outing while staying with us:

• Capitol Lake Park:

1. 1. •  This area includes a 2.5-mile walking trail that circles a scenic lake and offers views of the state capitol building. Also available are the sit down picnic spots along the water.

• Percival Landing Park: 

1. 1. • This is a downtown destination, with a boardwalk along the shore of Budd Inlet, offering views of the city and the water. The walk guides you to many restaurants to dine in, as well as a connection to the sites Olympia has to offer, including the farmers market.

• Brewery Park (formerly Tumwater Falls Park):

1. 1. •  Just down the road from the Capitol lake, this park offers trails along the Deschutes River, with several waterfalls and scenic vistas to enjoy.

• Squaxin Park (Formerly known as Priest point park): 

1. 1. • The natural space contains many trails that lead to the water. Walking the trails of this park will lead you on an enjoyable stroll through the forest, connecting to a rose garden bursting with color and fragrance. Not in the mood for a walk just yet? The area also hosts a great number of picnic areas and places to relax

• Chehalis Western Trail:

1. 1. •  This trail is a former railway line that has been converted into a walking and biking path. It spans over 20 miles through rural areas and forests.

• Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area:

1. 1. •  This area offers a network of trails through a forested wetland, with views of Puget Sound and wildlife viewing opportunities.

• Capitol State Forest:

1. 1. •  This forest features a network of trails through a diverse landscape of forests, fields, and streams. The system is also home to a multitude of mountain bikers and has many fantastical sights to offer.

• Saint Martin’s University: 

1. 1. • This university campus features walking paths and gardens, with views of the Olympic Mountains. 

• LBA Park:

1. 1. •  This park features a playground with baseball and soccer fields. Around the rim of the park is a lovely scenic trail.

• Watershed Park:

1. 1. •  Across the street from an entrance to the Chehalis Western Trail, the woods showcase a trail loop with many entrances and exits around the area. Take a hike through the rich natural environment that makes Olympia and Washington so unique.

• Garfield nature trail:

1. 1. •  A shorter trail, Garfield nature trail showcases a beautiful ravine and opens out to the Budd Inlet shores for an end of hike reward. 

• Mission Creek: 

1. • This hike is a loop that showcases Olympia’s natural beauty while being right in the middle of the community. It’s well maintained with little bridgers to help you cross over the creek itself. 

Not up for walking but still want to view the Pacific Northwest? 

• Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad: 

1. • This railroad operates vintage trains that offer scenic rides through the forests and mountains of the Pacific Northwest.