Cushman Trail
A scenic trail in Gig Harbor, Washington, perfect for walking, running, and biking, featuring wildflowers and bridge views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the midday sun
Cushman Trail
Best Time
Beat the midday sun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic trail in Gig Harbor, Washington, perfect for walking, running, and biking, featuring wildflowers and bridge views.
"Enjoy vibrant wildflowers and spot playful bunnies during your walk or run. A delightful natural spectacle!"
🗺️ Carry a Trail Map
Sections can be hard to follow; a map is recommended to avoid getting lost. :world_map:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Prepare for long distances; comfortable footwear is essential for hikers and runners. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wildflower Blooms
Along the trail
Enjoy vibrant wildflowers and spot playful bunnies during your walk or run. A delightful natural spectacle!
Tacoma Narrows Bridge Views
Midway section of the bridge
Experience impressive views from the midway point of the iconic Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
PenMet Recreation Center Stop
PenMet Recreation Center
A convenient spot to rest, refill water bottles, and grab a snack before continuing your journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate with a Map
Plan for Distance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Carry a Trail Map
Sections can be hard to follow; a map is recommended to avoid getting lost. :world_map:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Prepare for long distances; comfortable footwear is essential for hikers and runners. :athletic_shoe:
Best Running Areas for 10+ miles?
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer treks. Refill stations are available at PenMet. :droplet:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Path
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry companions. :dog:
Where to run in Gig Harbor?
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Carry a Trail Map
Sections can be hard to follow; a map is recommended to avoid getting lost. :world_map:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Prepare for long distances; comfortable footwear is essential for hikers and runners. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer treks. Refill stations are available at PenMet. :droplet:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Path
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry companions. :dog:
😂 Humorous Signs
Keep an eye out for funny signs along the trail that add a touch of humor to your run. :joy:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Cushman Trail for its natural beauty, including abundant wildflowers and wildlife sightings, and its accessibility for walking, running, and biking. The option to extend the journey to the Tacoma Narrows Bridge and the convenience of the PenMet Recreation Center are also highlighted. However, some users note that certain trail sections can be difficult to follow, recommending the use of a map for navigation.
"We walked the Cushman Trail from the Borgen trailhead to the end of the six miles. Then, we walked to the newly opened PenMet Recreation Center and on to the midway section of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
Some parts of the trail may be hard to follow, such as Civic Center/Kimball and Cutter's Point. I would recommend having a photo or online map of the trail to help navigate those difficult areas, if you are new.
We walked a total of 16 miles (round trip) which included a few detours when we got lost. We started at 11 am and took plenty of breaks. There were lots of wildflowers along the way and some bunnies. Plenty of other hikers/walkers, runners, bikers, young and old too! Not to mention, dogs!
Once at PenMet Rec Center, we rested in the A/C and refilled our water bottles, bought Gatorade and a snack from the vending machine, before venturing on to the Bridge.
From 5:30-6:30 pm, we stopped to eat dinner at Dragon Bistro Chinese restaurant at Cutter's Point Shopping Center. Then hiked the remaining four miles back to Borgen Trailhead. Along the way, we chatted with a few Gig Harbor residents, so we didn't make it back to our car until about 8:45 pm. It was a good ten hour day (including commute).
Elevation-wise, the hike was not too strenuous. The difficulty was mostly the distance, and we were just a little sore the next day!"
Jo Li
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Stephanie Marie Kennedy
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Gabriela Maldonado
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cushman Trail is located in Gig Harbor, Washington, offering easy access from Highway 16.
Popular trailheads include the Borgen trailhead, and access points near Civic Center/Kimball and Cutter's Point.
Information on public transport access is limited, but driving to a trailhead is the most common method.
Parking is generally available at the main trailheads, though it can fill up during peak times.
You can find the Cushman Trail head by searching for 'Borgen Trailhead' or 'Cushman Trail Gig Harbor' on navigation apps.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Cushman Trail is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Access is free for all visitors.
The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk, offering ample time for exploration. Specific hours may vary slightly by section.
No, tickets are not required as the Cushman Trail is a public access area. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
The main restriction is to respect the natural environment and follow posted guidelines. Dogs must be leashed.
While generally open during daylight, it's best to check local advisories for specific nighttime access. Most visitors prefer daytime for safety and visibility.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Cushman Trail extends for approximately six miles one way, but can be combined with other paths for longer routes.
Yes, the Cushman Trail is popular with bikers, offering a scenic route for cycling enthusiasts.
The terrain is generally not too strenuous, making it accessible for most walkers and runners.
Restrooms are available at the PenMet Recreation Center, which is a convenient stop along the trail.
Visitors often spot wildflowers and bunnies along the trail, adding to the natural beauty.
📸 📸 Photography
The midway point of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge offers dramatic views. The wildflower sections are also very picturesque.
Absolutely! The trail provides varied scenery, from natural landscapes with wildflowers to impressive bridge vistas.
Mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the trail and its surroundings.
Yes, you might encounter bunnies and other small wildlife. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
The Tacoma Narrows Bridge and the vibrant wildflower patches are key photographic landmarks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make a stop at the PenMet Recreation Center a highlight for families. It offers a place to rest, use restrooms, and perhaps grab a treat, breaking up the journey nicely. The novelty of walking part of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge can also be a memorable experience for children.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
Be aware that some sections might require a bit of navigation, so having a map is helpful.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Cushman Trail
Many users find that combining the Cushman Trail with other nearby paths, like those leading to the PenMet Recreation Center or even onto the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, significantly enhances the experience. This allows for longer, more varied excursions, turning a simple walk into a substantial day of exploration.
Remember that the trail is popular with a diverse group of users, including walkers, hikers, runners, and bikers. Being mindful of others and following trail etiquette will ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
Best Practices for Cushman Trail Users
For runners, the trail offers a great way to log miles, with some users even finding humor in the local signage.
When planning your visit, consider the time of day. Mornings and late afternoons generally offer more pleasant temperatures and softer light for photography, while also being less crowded than midday.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit