7 Fun Pacific Northwest Walks Near or In Olympia, Washington
I can’t tell you what happened this past month, but I got into quite a mental funk. Quarter life crisis, I suppose! As part of my self improvement work (a constant journey!) and as a method for relieving my anxiety, I’ve been venturing out of the house almost every day for new short and medium-length, fun Pacific Northwest walks near or in my hometown of Olympia, Washington. I’ve rounded up my faves here in case anyone in the area is looking for a new rec or you’re visiting for a bit and want an outdoor activity to do! :)
Fun Pacific Northwest Walks Recs
1. Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
This is one of my all time favorite places to be outside here. Not only is it great exercise, but you get to enjoy the adorable birds and other wildlife while you're there! The main forested trail is great, but my personal fave is the lookout spots further in at the beachy area (less natty bugs this way, too!). Instead of taking the main path from the parking area, veer off to the side and go the gravel path instead. Keep following until a fork forms and go left! You’ll start to see the lookout structures and second boardwalk from there. If you go during office hours, I highly recommend visiting the gift shop. Don’t forget to bring $3 for your visitation fee - cash only!
2. Capitol Lake
Capitol Lake is a local treasure and if you live in Olympia, chances are you’ve already walked it a time or two! This path is literally a circle around the body of water and is a nice flat, leisurely walk for all ages. If you wanna get fancy you can explore more of the Capitol Campus and walk up some winding trails that lead to sweeping views of the lake.
3. Percival Landing Boardwalk
Another downtown fave, Percival Landing is an easy, breezy walk to take while you explore downtown and perhaps finish with some brunch! This large boardwalk provides beautiful views of the water and boats at the marina. There’s even a playground to stop at if you have littles with you.
4. Chambers Bay
For an outdoorsy person, this Tacoma spot is heaven. For someone like me who enjoys brisk walks on flat terrain, my gosh is this a workout! Steeper hills add a little extra kick to an already long walk, but you feel quite accomplished after. There’s even an abnormally large tree to check out along the way! This is such a fun walk to do with a friend.
5. Burfoot Park
A childhood favorite of mine, Burfoot provides a mix of difficult and easy walking - their steep wooden staircases on the way back up from the beach are no joke, but otherwise it’s a very calming nature walk! Bring a picnic basket and blanket, and make a picnic day at the water.
6. Tumwater Falls
I adore this spot! They recently revamped the trails, so it’s in extra great shape at this moment. You’ll enjoy watching the fish and waterfalls on this walk, and it’s also a great spot for a picnic afterwards with multiple park options. I’ve done both picnic areas and love them both!
7. Ralph Monroe Trail
This trail is so darling and I believe it goes pretty far depending on how far you’d like to go! I have a couple friends who live on one end, so we usually just go 20 mins in and back, but you could make it a longer stroll if you desired. In the spring, it’s extra pretty with daffodils!
Will you be trying out any of these leisure adventures? If you find another one that you enjoyed, leave it in the comments!
