The best walks and hikes around Frederickson

Clark's Creek Trail in Puyallup, Washington, offers a delightful and easy urban escape, perfect for a quick refresh. This 2.4-mile (3.8 km) hike features a gentle 275 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete. You'll follow a pleasant gravel path through city parks, enjoying views and discovering a magical spot with wooden swings over the water.

As a popular multi-use trail, it's generally accessible, though specific parking details aren't provided, expect street parking or small lots near park entrances. The trail is enjoyable in all seasons, but visiting in the fall offers the unique chance to observe salmon swimming upstream near the historical Puyallup fish hatchery.

This trail is a local gem, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with nature within an urban setting. Its multi-use nature makes it suitable for walkers, runners, and cyclists alike, providing a green corridor through the city.

Step into the serene, naturally forested acres of Wildwood Park on the Jim Martinson Exercise Trail, a delightful loop that feels like a hidden gem. You'll follow a singletrack path through dense woodlands, enjoying the lush greenery and the gentle murmur of a small creek that meanders alongside. This easy hiking route is a quick 0.7 miles (1.2 km) with only 69 feet (21 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect 19-minute escape for a light workout or a peaceful family walk.

Getting to the trail is simple, as it's located within the larger Wildwood Park in Puyallup. The trail is open year-round, providing a consistent option for outdoor activity regardless of the season. Since it's part of a community park, you'll find amenities like playgrounds and picnic shelters nearby, making it easy to extend your visit with other family-friendly activities.

What makes this trail stand out is its role as an accessible community resource, offering a natural retreat right in the heart of the suburbs. It's a multi-use path, welcoming hikers, walkers, and trail runners, and it's also dog-friendly, provided your furry friend is on a leash. The trail's gentle nature and year-round accessibility make it an ideal spot for residents of Puyallup to connect with nature and stay active without needing to venture far.

The Foothills Trail offers a delightful, easy escape into nature, perfect for a quick refresh. This 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hiking route features a minimal 62 feet (19 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for nearly everyone and taking just over an hour to complete. You'll find yourself on a well-maintained path, winding through a pleasant natural setting that provides a peaceful break from urban life.

Planning your visit is simple, with convenient trailhead access and parking readily available. This trail is an excellent choice for a spontaneous outing, as no permits are needed. It's particularly enjoyable in the morning or late afternoon for a tranquil experience, and it's suitable for year-round use, though checking local conditions is always a good idea.

Often considered a local gem, the Foothills Trail provides a valuable opportunity to connect with nature without the commitment of a longer, more challenging hike. Its gentle terrain and easy accessibility make it a favorite for families, casual walkers, and anyone looking for a dose of fresh air in the Mcmillin area.

The Orange Gate Park Loop offers a delightful, easy hike through a natural woodland setting, perfect for a quick escape. You'll wander beneath towering Douglas firs and past tranquil wetlands, experiencing a peaceful environment rich in natural beauty. This 1.6-mile (2.5 km) loop has a gentle 67 feet (20 metres) of elevation gain, making it a very accessible option for all skill levels.

Planning your visit requires a quick check on current park conditions, as some sections of Orangegate Park are undergoing development and may be closed until 2027, with Orangegate South reopening in summer 2025. The trail is multi-use, welcoming hikers, dog walkers, and even horse riders. Parking is available at the trailhead, and the entire route can be completed in about 39 minutes, making it ideal for a short outing.

This park, historically named for the orange gate that marked its entrance when owned by the State Department of Natural Resources, provides a vital green space. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting due to its diverse wetlands and streams. The Orange Gate Park Loop also connects to the longer Pipeline Trail, offering options for extended adventures if you're looking to explore more of the area.