Fort Ward to Blakely Harbor Trail

You can typically find parking available at both Fort Ward Park and Blakely Harbor Park, as this trail connects the two. Parking at either end allows you to start your hike and explore the extensive trail network.

Yes, dogs are permitted on this trail. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while fall offers beautiful foliage. Summer is popular for coastal views, and even winter can be pleasant for a quiet forest walk, though conditions may be wetter.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Fort Ward to Blakely Harbor Trail or to enter Fort Ward Park or Blakely Harbor Park.

The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. It features a pleasant, meandering walk through thick forests and wetland areas. The surface is typically dirt, mulch, and gravel, with a boardwalk section. While the main connector is gentle, venturing onto other trails within the parks, like the Blakely Cemetery Trail, can include short but steep climbs.

You'll experience diverse scenery, from lush forestland with towering firs, cedars, and maples to tranquil wetland areas. Upon reaching Blakely Harbor Park, the views open up to the Puget Sound coastline. On clear days, Fort Ward Park offers glimpses of Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, and the Cascade Mountains.

The trail offers several points of interest. You'll traverse a section of the Cascadia Marine Trail. In Fort Ward Park, you can explore Battery Vinton, a pre-World War I coastal defense installation. Blakely Harbor Park features a beautiful Wildflower Meadow and remnants of the historic Port Blakely Mill.

Yes, this route is part of an extensive network. It includes sections of the Fort Ward Hill Trail, Blakely Cemetery Trail, Old Logging Road, and Fort Street, allowing you to easily extend your hike or create various loops within Fort Ward Park and Blakely Harbor Park.

Given its generally easy to moderate difficulty and diverse scenery, this trail is suitable for families. The varied terrain and points of interest, including historical sites and natural features, can keep younger hikers engaged.

Restrooms are typically available at the main park facilities in both Fort Ward Park and Blakely Harbor Park. It's advisable to carry your own water, especially for longer hikes, as dedicated water sources directly on the trail may be limited.

To make the most of your visit, consider starting your hike at Fort Ward Park and exploring its historical battery sites first. Then, continue on to Blakely Harbor Park for its coastal views and the unique industrial remnants. This allows for a varied experience combining history with natural beauty.