Des Moines Creek Trail

Hike the 4.8-mile Des Moines Creek Trail through a lush Pacific Northwest greenbelt to Des Moines Pier, offering creek views and Puget Sound

The Des Moines Creek Trail loop offers a refreshing escape into a verdant greenbelt, guiding you through a corridor of towering evergreens and alders. You'll follow the gentle meander of Des Moines Creek, enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature, before the landscape opens up to reveal stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. This 3.4-mile (5.5 km) hike is rated easy, with a modest 223 feet (68 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed outing that feels far removed from city life.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is fully paved and easily accessible, connecting directly to Des Moines Beach Park. The route is suitable for hikers, runners, and even those with strollers, thanks to its well-maintained surface and gentle grades. While the journey towards the waterfront is a pleasant downhill, remember that the return trip involves a steady, gradual uphill climb, providing a good, consistent workout. No permits are needed, and parking is generally available near the trailheads, making it an easy spontaneous adventure.

This trail is more than just a path; it's an ecologically significant area, with Des Moines Creek serving as salmon spawning grounds, complete with a fish ladder. It's also part of the larger developing Lake to Sound Trail network, highlighting its importance in regional connectivity. The 96-acre park surrounding the trail is the largest natural preserve in the SeaTac/Des Moines area, offering a vital urban escape where you might spot native birds, rabbits, or even deer. It's a testament to how nature can thrive even close to urban centers.