Hiking loop from Southwest County Olympic View Park

If you are looking for an easy, accessible escape into nature near Edmonds, the Hiking loop from Southwest County Olympic View Park is a fantastic choice. This 3.2-mile (5.2 km) hiking route, rated easy, offers 260 feet (79 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete. It is perfect for beginners, families, or anyone seeking a quick, refreshing walk through a beautiful forest.

What to expect on Hiking loop from Southwest County Olympic View Park

This trail guides you through a mature second-growth forest, a 120-acre preserve filled with forested ravines and wetlands. You will find yourself walking on gravel paths, well-built trails, and old logging skid roads that have been repurposed into footpaths. Keep an eye out for the "green blanket" of indigenous plants like salal, Oregon grape, and large ferns that cover the forest floor. While mostly shaded, certain openings in the canopy provide rewarding glimpses of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. The route is generally family-friendly, but you can find options for steeper inclines if you want a bit more of a workout.

Planning your visit

Southwest County Olympic View Park is open year-round, making it a reliable option for a nature fix in any season. Parking is available, but be aware that amenities are minimal; you will not find outhouses, water, or tables here. As a Passive/Sensitive Wildlife Preserve, off-road vehicles and bicycles are not permitted on the hiking trails, ensuring a peaceful experience and protecting the natural environment, especially Perrinville Creek.

Trail details

• Distance: 3.2 miles (5.2 km)
• Elevation gain: 260 feet (79 metres)
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 25 minutes