1.
Waterfall View from the Bridge loop from Tumwater
4.96km
01:19
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Tumwater
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated May 10, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan hiking around Tumwater, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails crisscrossing the area, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and which are just filler. That's where komoot comes in. Our community has mapped, walked, and reviewed these routes, and we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the ones we think are truly worth your legs.
Hiking around Tumwater is defined by its beautiful river valleys, cascading waterfalls, and extensive forested parks. You'll find a blend of accessible urban green spaces and trails that wind through prairies and estuaries, all centered around the Deschutes River and Capitol Lake. While there are options for various ability levels, the area truly shines with its easy, accessible routes. Keep in mind that late August through October offers the unique spectacle of the annual salmon run at Tumwater Falls.
If you only do one hike, we'd start with the Waterfall View from the Bridge loop from Tumwater. At 3.1 miles (5.0 km), it’s an easy path that delivers big on scenery, offering iconic views of Tumwater Falls, the fish ladders, and historical brewery buildings. For a slightly longer, tranquil forest experience, the Watershed Park Loop – Watershed Park loop from Olympia High School is a fantastic choice at 4.4 miles (7.1 km), winding through a lush setting with minimal elevation. Ready to explore? We've got more than 30 routes mapped out for you.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterfall View from the Bridge loop from Tumwater | 4.96 km | 50 m | Easy |
| Capitol Lake loop from Tumwater | 4.24 km | 20 m | Easy |
| Capitol Lake loop from Tumwater | 7.35 km | 70 m | Easy |
| Hiking loop from Tumwater | 4.53 km | 40 m | Easy |
2.
Capitol Lake loop from Tumwater
4.24km
01:05
20m
20m
The Capitol Lake loop in Tumwater offers a delightful and accessible escape, perfect for a leisurely stroll. As you follow the mostly paved path, you'll be treated to continuous scenic views, including stunning reflections of the Washington State Capitol building in the lake's calm waters. Keep an eye out for various bird species and enjoy the mix of open areas and shady sections, with glimpses of the Olympic Mountains on clear days.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as free parking is available at Heritage Park, Marathon Park, or along Deschutes Parkway. This easy 2.6-mile (4.2 km) hike, with only 55 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes, making it ideal for families, strollers, and wheelchairs. It's a great option for a quick, refreshing outing any time of year.
Beyond the beautiful scenery, the Capitol Lake loop is rich with educational elements, featuring bronze markers for each of Washington's 39 counties and informative signs about local history and ecology. The trail seamlessly connects to other attractions like Heritage Park and the Capitol Lake Interpretive Center, offering extended exploration opportunities. It's a cherished spot for outdoor recreation, blending natural beauty with historical significance.
View route
3.
Capitol Lake loop from Tumwater
7.35km
01:57
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
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4.
Hiking loop from Tumwater
4.53km
01:12
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
See every route on the map
Tips from the Community
Tyler Sanders
December 7, 2023, Capitol Lake
In 1937, officials initiated legislation to create this 260-acre man-made lake, viewing the construction of a lake, dam, and connecting road system as a means of improving the community. As you proceed, you can catch views of the Capitol building just over the water.
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AverieOutside
November 18, 2023, Capitol 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Tumwater?
Tumwater offers a fantastic selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 20 routes specifically curated for families, with the majority being easy and suitable for various ages and skill levels.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families in Tumwater?
Yes, Tumwater has several enjoyable loop trails perfect for families. The Watershed Park Loop is a great option, winding through a forested setting. Another popular choice is the Capitol Lake loop, offering scenic views around the lake.
What are the best trails for families with young children or strollers?
For families with young children or strollers, trails with minimal elevation gain and smooth paths are ideal. The Hiking loop from Tumwater is a relatively flat option. The pedestrian walking loop at Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls is also very accessible, though it has some gravel and stairs in parts.
Can we see waterfalls on a family hike in Tumwater?
Absolutely! The majestic Tumwater Falls are a highlight of the area. You can experience them on the Waterfall View from the Bridge loop from Tumwater, which offers stunning views of the cascades on the Deschutes River.
What kind of natural landscapes can we expect to see on family hikes in Tumwater?
Tumwater's family-friendly trails showcase a diverse range of natural beauty. You'll encounter lush forests, the scenic Deschutes River, and picturesque Capitol Lake. Many trails, like those in Watershed Park, offer a peaceful forested experience.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on these trails?
Yes, Tumwater's natural areas provide chances to spot local wildlife. The Deschutes River, especially around Tumwater Falls, is known for its annual salmon run from late August through early October, which is a spectacular sight. Forested areas may offer glimpses of birds and small mammals.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions near the family hiking trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore several interesting spots. Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls is a significant attraction with historical buildings and fish ladders. You might also enjoy the Capitol Lake area or the unique geological formations at Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve.
What is the best time of year for family hiking in Tumwater?
Tumwater is enjoyable for family hiking throughout much of the year. Summer offers pleasant weather for exploring, while late August through early October is ideal for observing the salmon run at Tumwater Falls. Spring brings blooming flora, and fall showcases beautiful foliage.
How long do the family-friendly hikes typically take?
The duration of family-friendly hikes in Tumwater varies. Many easy loops, like the Waterfall View from the Bridge loop (around 5 km), can be completed in about an hour and a half to two hours at a leisurely family pace. Longer options, such as the Capitol Lake loop (around 7.4 km), might take two to three hours.
Is parking readily available at the trailheads?
Yes, parking is generally available at or near the trailheads for popular family-friendly routes. For instance, Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls has dedicated parking, and other parks like Watershed Park often have accessible parking areas. It's always a good idea to check specific route details for parking information.
What do other hikers say about family-friendly trails in Tumwater?
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Tumwater, with an average score of over 4 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility, scenic beauty, and the variety of options suitable for all ages, particularly highlighting the peaceful forest paths and the impressive Tumwater Falls.
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