Capitol State Forest

Capitol State Forest offers diverse outdoor adventures amidst a rich natural landscape.

Just southwest of Olympia, Capitol State Forest encompasses over 110,000 acres, providing a vast playground for nature enthusiasts and a working timber forest. It stands as a testament to the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty, featuring dense evergreen forests, serene creeks, and rolling hills. The forest is renowned for its extensive network of multi-use trails and scenic vistas, inviting visitors to explore its depths on foot, bike, or horseback.

Among its many treasures, the McLane Creek Nature Trail is a highlight, offering accessible boardwalks through wetlands where visitors can observe migrating Chum salmon in late fall/early winter and a resident beaver pond, alongside various avian wildlife like Canadian geese, kingfishers, and mallards. For more challenging pursuits, trails lead to Mima Falls, a charming waterfall nestled within a fern-rich forest, and Capitol Peak, which, on clear days, rewards climbers with breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, Mount Adams, the Olympic Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. Unique and quirky features, such as remnants of old railroad grades and even reports of carved gnomes, add an unexpected layer of discovery to the forest's natural appeal.

This expansive forest offers a dynamic escape, seamlessly blending recreational opportunities with ecological importance and a glimpse into the region's history. Whether you seek peaceful wildlife observation, exhilarating trail adventures, or stunning natural panoramas, Capitol State Forest promises memorable experiences for every visitor. Its dedication to both recreation and sustainable forest management makes it a vital and cherished resource in Washington. Enhance your adventure: download the Snappit app to identify the local species you encounter.