Forestry Trail Loop

As of December 2025, the Forestry Trail Loop, located within Lake Sylvia State Park, is temporarily closed due to impacts from heavy rain. Please check the official state park website for the most current information regarding its reopening.

The trail offers varied terrain, winding through deep forests and alongside scenic creeks and ponds. Sections follow an old logging railroad line, particularly along the west shore of Lake Sylvia. While generally gentle with rolling hills, some parts can be muddy and narrow. The west side of the loop is flatter, following an old railroad grade, while the east side has more ascents and descents.

You can expect beautiful scenery with second-growth and third-growth fir and cedar forests, often draped in moss. The trail provides views of scenic creeks and ponds, embodying a temperate rainforest environment. You'll also find interpretive signs explaining the area's logging history, large tree stumps (some nursing new growth), and remnants of old sawmills and railroad trestles.

Yes, the trail is located near Machicomoco State Park, which offers additional points of interest. Along the trail itself, you'll find historical artifacts like rusty saw blades and moss-covered columns from an old railroad trestle, alongside interpretive signs detailing the forest's past.

The Forestry Trail Loop is approximately 8.5 kilometers (5.3 miles) long. Most hikers can expect to complete it in about 2 hours and 9 minutes, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the scenery.

The Sylvia Creek Forestry Trail is generally considered easy to moderate. Some sections, particularly the first half-mile, are ADA accessible. While other parts can be moderately strenuous with muddy and narrow spots, its overall gentle nature makes it suitable for many beginners and families looking for an outdoor adventure.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Loop Trail and the Forestry Trail, allowing for potential extensions or variations to your hike within the area.

Information regarding dog policies for the Forestry Trail Loop is not explicitly detailed. However, as it's part of a state park system, it's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash and follow all posted park regulations. Always check the park's official website for the most up-to-date pet policies before your visit.

Since the trail is located within Lake Sylvia State Park, a Discover Pass may be required for vehicle access. This pass covers entrance fees to Washington State Parks. Please verify current requirements and fees on the Washington State Parks official website before planning your trip.

Given its temperate rainforest environment, the trail is beautiful year-round, though conditions vary. Spring and fall offer lush greenery and cooler temperatures. However, please remember that the trail is currently closed as of December 2025 due to heavy rain impacts, so check for reopening information before planning any visit.

If you prefer a less strenuous experience, consider hiking the west side of the loop first. This section is generally flatter, following an old railroad grade, while the east side features more ascents and descents, offering a bit more challenge.