Day Trips from Tacoma
← All Tacoma day tripsDay Trips from Tacoma: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Tacoma, WA. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Tacoma
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
USA
Just 2 hrs 20 min from Tacoma, rated 4.8 stars by 13,657 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wallace Falls State Park
Gold Bar, WA 98251
Just 1 hr 27 min from Tacoma, rated 4.8 stars by 2,602 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lake Serene & Bridal Veil Falls Trailhead
Mt Index River Rd, Gold Bar
Just 1 hr 32 min from Tacoma, rated 4.8 stars by 1,167 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Deception Pass State Park
Oak Harbor, WA 98277
Just 1 hr 57 min from Tacoma, rated 4.8 stars by 13,352 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bloedel Reserve
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Just 1 hr 5 min from Tacoma, rated 4.8 stars by 1,925 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Twin Falls Natural Area
North Bend, WA 98045
Just 52 min from Tacoma, rated 4.8 stars by 1,881 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Tryon Creek State Natural Area
OR, USA
Just 2 hrs 22 min from Tacoma, rated 4.8 stars by 2,658 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Kukutali Preserve Trailhead
La Conner, WA 98257
Just 1 hr 53 min from Tacoma, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Redmond Watershed Preserve
Redmond, WA 98053
Just 54 min from Tacoma, rated 4.7 stars by 716 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Paradise Valley Conservation Area Parking and Trail Head
Woodinville, WA 98077
Just 57 min from Tacoma, rated 4.7 stars by 947 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rattlesnake Lake Recreation Area
North Bend, WA 98045
Just 53 min from Tacoma, rated 4.7 stars by 1,786 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Woodard Bay Conservation Area
WA 98506, USA
Just 39 min from Tacoma, rated 4.7 stars by 696 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Tacoma
What are the best hiking trails near Tacoma, WA?
The best hikes near Tacoma range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Tacoma?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Tacoma offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Tacoma?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Tacoma are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Tacoma?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Tacoma. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
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