A river near the trailhead

Green Mountain State Forest Gold Creek Trailhead

4.7
·387 reviews·Bremerton, United States

Moderate hike to summit with breathtaking Olympic Mountain & Seattle views. Be prepared for variable weather and shared trails.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Clear days

Best for summit views

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
A river near the trailhead

Green Mountain State Forest Gold Creek Trailhead

Best Time

Clear days

Best for summit views

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Moderate hike to summit with breathtaking Olympic Mountain & Seattle views. Be prepared for variable weather and shared trails.

4.7
(387 reviews)

"Beautiful sights up on Gold Mountain! I would definitely recommend hiking to the summit on a good clear day."

Vertical photo
TIP

Dress Warmly for Summit

Weather gets cold at the top, even on clear days. Layers are key! :cloud:

Watch for Bikers

Dirt bikes are allowed, so be mindful on narrow trail sections. :motorcycle:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gold Mountain Summit

Gold Mountain Summit

Gold Mountain Summit

Panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Seattle on a clear day. A rewarding moderate hike.

Gold Creek Area

Gold Creek Area

Lower trail sections

A more populated area with bikers and joggers, offering a lively atmosphere near the creek.

New Picnic Area

New Picnic Area

Near the summit

A recently added picnic spot offering a place to rest and enjoy the mountain air.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Summit Views & Trail Conditions

Hike to the summit on a clear day for breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and Seattle. Be prepared for variable weather; it gets cold at the top. The trail can be wet and have loose rock, so wear sturdy shoes and watch your step. Reddit

Trail Etiquette & Access

While the Gold Creek Trailhead is popular with hikers, bikers, and dirt bikes are also permitted. Be aware of shared trail use, especially on narrower sections. The access road can be rough, so a vehicle with decent clearance is recommended. Reddit

Best Times

When
Clear days
Why
Best for summit views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Things to do around Bremerton?

Dress Warmly for Summit

Weather gets cold at the top, even on clear days. Layers are key! :cloud: Reddit

Watch for Bikers

Dirt bikes are allowed, so be mindful on narrow trail sections. :motorcycle: Reddit

Sturdy Footwear Needed

Trail can be wet with loose rock. Good grip is essential for a safe hike. :athletic_shoe:

Allow Ample Time

The full trail can take longer than expected, especially with stops for views. :stopwatch:

Tips

from all over the internet

Dress Warmly for Summit

Weather gets cold at the top, even on clear days. Layers are key! :cloud: Reddit

Watch for Bikers

Dirt bikes are allowed, so be mindful on narrow trail sections. :motorcycle: Reddit

Sturdy Footwear Needed

Trail can be wet with loose rock. Good grip is essential for a safe hike. :athletic_shoe:

Allow Ample Time

The full trail can take longer than expected, especially with stops for views. :stopwatch:

Rough Access Road

The road to the trailhead can be bumpy. Consider a vehicle with higher clearance. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(387 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning summit views, calling the hike beautiful and rewarding, especially on clear days. The trail offers a sense of serenity away from crowds, though some note the presence of dirt bikes and a rough access road. It's a moderate hike suitable for many, with a new picnic area adding to the amenities.

"Beautiful sights up on Gold Mountain! I would definitely recommend hiking to the summit on a good clear day if you get the chance.

There's usually a lot more people down in the creek area, bikers, joggers, etc, but up on the mountain we didn't pass or see anyone. It made for a nice serene and isolate hike."

Feldwebel Vertrauen

"Great hike, can be completed in like less than two hours. Beautiful views."

Shaun Dyess

"Such a beautiful hike. Was able to see snow on the Olympic mountains and Seattle! Was so clear today. It’s a moderate hike with excellent views. Dress warmly for the weather gets cold toward the top. Update: 4/26/25. They added a large picnic area toward the top of the mountain but I don’t know how you’re gonna get all your picnic stuff up there if you’re having a large family outing 🤣😂 we saw a a few people on their dirt bikes, which were kind of annoying, considering the trail is so tight but they are allowed to be there. Scary… I reduced a star because of this."

Jason R.

What People Like

Beautiful summit views
Serene, isolated hike
Moderate difficulty

What People Dislike

Dirt bikes on trail
Rough access road
Can be wet/rocky

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The trailhead is accessible via a road that can be rough. Many visitors recommend a vehicle with decent clearance. It's a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts in the Bremerton area. Reddit

The road is described as rough and not fully paved, so drive with caution and consider your vehicle's capabilities. Reddit

Expect a rough road with loose rock in sections. It's advisable to drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

While possible, a vehicle with higher clearance is often recommended due to the rough road conditions. Reddit

Public transportation options are limited for remote trailheads like this. Driving is the most common method of access. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no specific tickets required for hiking the Gold Creek Trail. It's generally a free-access area for outdoor recreation. Reddit

Information on parking fees can vary. It's best to check local forest service advisories or look for signage at the trailhead upon arrival. Reddit

The trails are typically open for public access during daylight hours. It's advisable to start your hike with enough time to finish before dusk. Reddit

Green Mountain State Forest generally does not have an entrance fee, but specific trailheads or day-use areas might have associated costs. Reddit

Reservations are typically not available for this type of trailhead. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The hike is generally considered moderate, with some challenging sections due to elevation gain and loose rock. It can be completed in under two hours for many. Reddit

On a clear day, you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and the city of Seattle. Reddit

Yes, dogs are allowed on the trail, and many visitors bring their furry companions along for the hike. Reddit

Yes, the trail can be suitable for children, though parents should be mindful of the moderate difficulty and loose rock sections. A 6-year-old reportedly enjoyed it. Reddit

Wear layers as the weather can change quickly and get cold at the summit. Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are essential due to wet conditions and loose rock. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Dining options are limited directly at the trailhead. It's best to pack your own food and drinks or plan to eat in Bremerton before or after your hike. Reddit

Yes, there's a picnic area near the top of the mountain. However, carrying picnic supplies up can be a challenge. Reddit

It's recommended to bring your own water supply as potable water sources are not typically available on the trail. Reddit

No, there are no food vendors operating at the Gold Creek Trailhead. Reddit

Pack energy-rich snacks and plenty of water. Sandwiches or trail mix are good options for a moderate hike. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers the most spectacular photo opportunities with panoramic views. The creek area also provides scenic shots. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the landscape, especially for sunrise or sunset views if you're there at the right time. Clear days are crucial for visibility. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain peaks. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. Be mindful of other hikers and avoid blocking the trail. Reddit

Drone usage is often restricted in state forests and parks. It's essential to check the specific regulations for Green Mountain State Forest before flying a drone. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Gold Creek Trail can be a great outing for families, with a 6-year-old reportedly enjoying the hike. Reddit While the trail is considered moderate, parents should be prepared for sections with loose rock and potential wetness, ensuring children wear appropriate footwear. Reddit The summit views are a fantastic reward for younger hikers, and the new picnic area offers a nice spot for a family break. Reddit Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are scarce at the trailhead.

⛰️ Outdoor Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those who love the outdoors, the Gold Creek Trail offers a rewarding moderate hike with spectacular summit views. Reddit Be prepared for varied terrain, including loose rock and potentially wet conditions, so sturdy hiking boots are a must. Reddit The opportunity for a more isolated hike to the summit is a significant draw, especially on weekdays. Reddit Keep an eye out for mountain bikers and dirt bikes, as they share the trail system.

📸 Photography Buffs

The panoramic vistas from the Gold Mountain summit are a photographer's dream, especially on clear days when the Olympic Mountains and Seattle are visible. Reddit Consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Reddit A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the expansive scenery. Remember to check local regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to capture aerial shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Gold Creek Trail

The Gold Creek Trail offers a moderate hiking experience, with many visitors completing it in under two hours. The trail is known for its loose rock sections and can be wet, requiring careful footing and sturdy hiking shoes. Reddit While the lower creek area is often bustling with bikers and joggers, the ascent to the summit provides a more serene and isolated experience, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. Reddit

Trail Etiquette and Shared Use
It's important to be aware that dirt bikes are permitted on the trail, which can sometimes be a concern on narrower paths. Hikers are advised to stay alert and yield to bikers when necessary. Reddit The access road leading to the trailhead can also be rough, so a vehicle with decent clearance is recommended for a smoother journey. Reddit

Summit Views and Amenities


Reaching the summit of Gold Mountain is the highlight for many, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Seattle on clear days. Reddit A recent addition is a picnic area near the top, providing a pleasant spot to rest and enjoy the scenery, though transporting picnic supplies can be a bit of an effort. Reddit

Best Times to Visit for Optimal Experience

For the most rewarding experience at the Gold Creek Trailhead, timing is key. Visiting on a clear day is paramount to fully appreciate the stunning summit views of the Olympic Mountains and Seattle. Reddit These clear days often occur during specific seasons, so checking weather forecasts is crucial. Reddit

Avoiding Crowds
While the Gold Creek area can see a fair amount of activity, particularly from bikers and joggers, the summit trail itself tends to be less crowded. Reddit For a more serene hike, consider visiting during weekday mornings. This timing generally offers lower crowd levels, allowing for a more peaceful and isolated experience on the mountain. Reddit

Seasonal Considerations
While not explicitly detailed in reviews, spring and fall often provide pleasant hiking temperatures. However, be prepared for variable weather conditions year-round, as it can get cold at higher elevations. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2