Turtle Ponds – Salmon Creek Regional Park loop from Mount Vista

If you're looking for a substantial urban greenway experience that still feels connected to nature, the Turtle Ponds – Salmon Creek Regional Park loop from Mount Vista is a solid choice. This 13.1-mile (21.1 km) jogging route, rated difficult, features 488 feet (149 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 2 hours and 13 minutes to complete. It's an excellent option for those who want a longer, challenging jog with diverse scenery without leaving the city's edge.

What to expect on Turtle Ponds – Salmon Creek Regional Park loop from Mount Vista

This route offers a journey through varied landscapes, from urban greenway to bottomlands and forested hillsides alongside Salmon Creek. You'll pass open pond areas, marshland, and riparian habitats, with frequent views of the water. The trail is largely flat and paved, making for smooth jogging, though some sections, particularly along the southwest boundary, might include unpaved dirt or gravel paths that can get muddy in winter. Despite the "difficult" rating, the terrain itself is generally gentle, with only a mild slope up to Northwest 36th Avenue. It's best suited for joggers looking for distance and a pleasant, scenic workout.

Planning your visit

The trail is a multi-use path, so you'll be sharing it with walkers, hikers, and cyclists. Dogs are generally allowed on leash on the greenway trail, but not in the main Klineline Pond area. Restrooms and park benches are conveniently located at several access points, including the main trailhead within Salmon Creek Regional Park. The trail connects to Klineline Pond, which has a designated swimming beach with lifeguards in summer, a splash pad, and fishing platforms, making it a great spot for a post-jog cool-down or family outing.

Trail details

• Distance: 13.1 miles (21.1 km)
• Elevation gain: 488 feet (149 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 13 minutes