Squaxin Park

Squaxin Park offers over four miles of trails, with the Ellis Cove Trail being a standout. This scenic path winds through the dense coastal forest and along the perimeter of Ellis Cove, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and views of the inlet. Many trails are interconnected, allowing hikers to create various loop options depending on desired length and difficulty.

Yes, Squaxin Park is very family-friendly. Many of its well-maintained trails are suitable for all ages and offer easy, gentle grades. The park also features a large playground, some areas of which are designed with special needs accommodations, making it a great destination for families with young children looking for a relaxed outing.

Parking is available at the main entrance located at 2600 East Bay Drive NE. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, as the lot can fill up quickly. For public transport, Intercity Transit provides bus routes that serve the area around Squaxin Park, offering an alternative way to access the park without a car.

Yes, dogs are welcome in Squaxin Park! It's a popular spot for dog owners. However, all dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all park visitors and to protect the park's wildlife. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

Squaxin Park is home to a variety of wildlife, particularly birds. Keep an eye out for species like northern flickers, woodpeckers, and ospreys. The park's diverse habitats, including the forest and saltwater shoreline, also provide opportunities to spot other small mammals and marine life, especially along the beach at low tide.

While the park features a large playground with some special needs accommodations, specific information on fully accessible trails for wheelchairs is not extensively detailed. Many trails are well-maintained, but their natural terrain may vary. It's recommended to contact the City of Olympia Parks and Recreation for the most current information on accessible trail conditions.

Squaxin Park was formerly known as Priest Point Park. In April 2022, the Olympia City Council unanimously voted to rename it Squaxin Park to honor the local Squaxin Island Tribe. This renaming acknowledges their historical connection to the land, which served as an encampment for Native American people for thousands of years, and recognizes the forced relocation of their people from Budd Inlet.

Squaxin Park is located within Olympia, Washington, so there are various amenities nearby. You'll find a selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants within a short drive or bus ride from the park, particularly in downtown Olympia. Accommodation options, including hotels and motels, are also available in the surrounding city area.

The trails along the perimeter of Ellis Cove offer some of the most picturesque viewpoints, providing expansive vistas of Budd Inlet towards Olympia. Additionally, various points along the nearly two miles of saltwater shoreline offer serene views and opportunities to observe the Puget Sound landscape.

Generally, no special permits are required for standard recreational activities like hiking or picnicking in Squaxin Park. It is a public park managed by the City of Olympia. However, for organized events, large gatherings, or specific activities, it's always best to check with the City of Olympia Parks and Recreation department for any necessary permits or reservations.