The best walks and hikes in Tolmie State Park
4.6
(33)
324
hikers
17
hikes
Hiking in Tolmie State Park explores a landscape of dense coastal forest, saltwater shoreline, and a vital marsh ecosystem on the shores of Puget Sound. The park is situated on a spit within a cove, featuring forested bluffs and a tidal lagoon. The trail network consists of mainly flat or gently rolling paths, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. This environment provides a unique blend of marine and forest features for outdoor exploration.
Best hiking trails in Tolmie State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Four Cedars Trail Loop, an easy 2.0 miles (3.3 km) trail that takes about 50 minutes to complete. This loop winds through classic Pacific Northwest forest ecosystems, showcasing coastal forests and old-growth cedars.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Jacob's Point Loop, an easy 2.5 miles (4.0 km) path. This route offers views of the saltwater shoreline and passes through varied coastal terrain.
- Local hikers also love the Hiking loop from Tolmie State Park, a 1.6 miles (2.6 km) trail leading through coastal woodlands, often completed in about 40 minutes.
- Hiking in Tolmie State Park is defined by its saltwater shorelines, dense coastal forests, and flat estuary paths. The trail network offers accessible options for different ability levels, from short beach walks to longer woodland loops.
- The routes in Tolmie State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Tolmie State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.5
(2)
26
hikers
3.28km
00:53
40m
40m
Embark on the easy Four Cedars Trail Loop, a delightful hike through a lush coastal forest. This route spans 2.0 miles (3.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 115 feet (35 metres), taking approximately 52 minutes to complete. As you walk, you will encounter impressive old-growth red cedars, including a unique tree split into four distinct trunks, and enjoy views of the shoreline, creeks, and a tranquil lake.
To access this trail in Tolmie State Park, you will need a Discover Pass. While the loop is open all year, you might find it most pleasant to visit between March and October, with early to mid-fall offering particularly enjoyable conditions. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can become muddy, especially during the wetter seasons.
The trail offers a diverse natural experience, winding past a charming wooden bridge and providing opportunities for birdwatching near the Big Slough. You can also take in scenic views of Nisqually Reach, making this an ideal spot for a quick escape into nature with varied landscapes.
6
hikers
2.59km
00:43
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
3.95km
01:01
20m
20m
Embark on the Jacob's Point Loop for an easy hike that winds through diverse landscapes. This route spans 2.5 miles (3.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 72 feet (22 metres), taking about 1 hour and 1 minute to complete. You will experience peaceful woods, cross a raised walkway over a wetland, and reach a stone-pebble beach. Look out for scenic overlooks providing views of Vega Bay, Oro Bay, and the vast South Puget Sound. On clear days, Mount Rainier can be seen in the distance, adding to the scenic beauty of your journey.
This trail is considered kid-friendly, making it a good option for families. If you bring your dog, remember to keep it on a leash at all times to protect the local wildlife and other hikers. Be mindful of poison oak and nettles that grow just off the path, especially if you step off the main trail. When exploring the beach sections, stay aware of your surroundings.
Jacob's Point Loop is a vibrant spot for birdwatching, offering chances to hear and see local woodland and shore birds. The varied terrain, from dense woods to open wetlands and coastal views, makes it a unique natural escape. This trail provides a great opportunity to connect with nature and observe the local ecosystem.
4.6
(7)
19
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
2.04km
00:31
0m
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The Twin Barns Loop Trail provides an easy 1.3 miles (2.0 km) hike through the diverse ecosystems of the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. You will experience minimal elevation gain, just 7 feet (2 metres), over about 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick outing or for those new to hiking. As you follow the route, you will pass through wetland areas, grasslands, freshwater marshes, and sections of tidally-influenced forests, with the Twin Barns observation platform offering expansive views of the marshlands.
To access the refuge and enjoy this trail, you will need either a national parks pass or to pay a daily fee of $3 on-site. Please note that pets are not allowed on any of the refuge trails, so plan accordingly. For your best chance to spot the abundant wildlife, consider visiting during the early mornings or evenings.
This route is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural environment of the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Keep an eye out for frequent sightings of bald eagles, great blue herons, river otters, and various waterfowl that call this area home. The trail offers a gentle introduction to the refuge's rich biodiversity and its important conservation efforts.
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Popular around Tolmie State Park
Tips from the Community
Good birding here.
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Great spot to hide from the weather and do some birdwatching before venturing out over the water.
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Parking costs $3, payable by cash or check. The National Wildlife Refuge also accepts all types of America the Beautiful passes. The Visitor Center is open Wednesday - Friday, 9:00 - 4:00. It features an accessible viewing platform, exhibits on the habitat and wildlife, and a gift shop benefitting the Friends of Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
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Tolmie State Park has 3 miles of trails through lush coastal forest. Interpretive signs guide hikers through the wetland habitat down to a popular beach. A Discover Pass is required to park here, and may be purchased at the park's automated pay station.
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The beach at Tolmie State Park is popular for crabbing, clamming, and fishing. It's a great spot for families to explore at low tide, and the water is calm enough to play in on a hot summer day. You may even see scuba divers heading out to the artificial reef at Tolmie Underwater Park!
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Don't forget the binoculars! Viewing platforms all along the estuary boardwalk let visitors get up close and personal with the fauna that take advantage of this rich habitat.
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Parking costs $3, payable by cash or check. The National Wildlife Refuge also accepts all types of America the Beautiful passes. The Visitor Center is open Wednesday - Friday, 9:00 - 4:00. It features an accessible viewing platform, exhibits on the habitat and wildlife, and a gift shop benefitting the Friends of Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
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From 1909 until 2009, the 5-mile long Brown Farm Dike kept this estuary free of water. The dike was removed in an effort to restore this important ecosystem, and now the only remnants of farmland are these twin dairy barns. This is also the last place to use a port-a-potty before heading out on the boardwalk!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Tolmie State Park?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Tolmie State Park but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be mindful of wildlife and other park visitors, and always clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the park?
Absolutely. The park's terrain is mostly flat or gently rolling, making it ideal for families. A great option is the Billy Frank Jr. National Wildlife Refuge — Nisqually River Delta trail, which features a boardwalk over the estuary and is perfect for little legs and spotting birds.
Do I need a Discover Pass for Tolmie State Park?
Yes, a Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to Tolmie State Park. You can purchase a day pass or an annual pass online or at various retail locations. The pass helps maintain Washington's beautiful state parks.
How long are the hiking trails in Tolmie State Park?
The park features approximately three miles of trails. Most routes are relatively short, typically taking between 30 minutes to an hour to complete. They are perfect for a quick escape into nature or can be combined for a longer walk.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, the park has some excellent loop trails. For a moderately challenging woodland walk, consider the Bender Woods loop from Tanglewilde. This 4.8-mile route offers an immersive forest experience.
What kind of wildlife might I see in the park?
Tolmie State Park's diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife. Along the shoreline and in the saltwater marsh, you can often spot seagulls, mallards, and other shorebirds. The forest is home to species like garter snakes, salamanders, and weasels. The Nisqually estuary is also a crucial habitat for migrating salmon.
Which trail leads to the beach?
The Sandy Beach Trail provides direct access to the 1,800 feet of saltwater shoreline on the Nisqually Reach. It's a great spot for beachcombing, enjoying views of Puget Sound, and exploring the tidal flats during low tide.
What should I know about the tides before visiting?
Checking the tide schedule is highly recommended, especially if you plan on beachcombing, clamming, or crabbing. Low tide exposes a large area of the beach and tidal flats, offering the best opportunities for exploring the shoreline's marine life.
Besides hiking, what other activities are popular at Tolmie State Park?
The park is a popular destination for a variety of activities. The saltwater shoreline is great for swimming and beach exploration. It's also a premier location for scuba diving, thanks to an underwater park with an artificial reef. Birdwatching and shellfish harvesting (in season) are also common.
How many hiking trails are in the Tolmie State Park area?
You can explore over 10 designated hiking routes in and around Tolmie State Park. The network includes short, easy walks along the shore as well as longer loops through the dense coastal forest, offering options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the combination of lush forest scenery and beautiful saltwater shoreline, as well as the accessibility of the well-maintained, family-friendly trails.
Are there any trails that go through the forest?
Yes, several trails wind through the park's classic Pacific Northwest forest. A good example is the Woodard Bay trailhead loop from DuPont, which takes you through a beautiful wooded area characteristic of the region.
Most popular routes in Tolmie State Park
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