Old Pipeline Bridge
A historic iron bridge and easy trail along the Tumwater River, offering scenic beauty and a touch of local history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Wildflowers bloom beautifully
Old Pipeline Bridge
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom beautifully
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic iron bridge and easy trail along the Tumwater River, offering scenic beauty and a touch of local history.
"Absolutely gorgeous! Super easy hike. The bridge was right there not far from where you can park but the scenery was beautiful!"
🚗 Parking Pass Needed
A $5 day pass is required for parking. Have cash or card ready!
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Be mindful of rocks and metal debris on the trail. Keep kids close!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Old Pipeline Bridge
Tumwater Canyon
An iconic iron bridge offering historical charm and stunning river views. A must-see photo spot!
Tumwater River Views
Along the trail
Enjoy the sights and sounds of the rushing river, with opportunities to spot kayakers.
Sandy Beach Access
Mid-trail
A perfect spot to relax, skip rocks, or enjoy a picnic by the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Day Pass
Trail Conditions & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Pass Needed
A $5 day pass is required for parking. Have cash or card ready!
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Be mindful of rocks and metal debris on the trail. Keep kids close!
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable here. Plan ahead for navigation.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome on this easy, scenic hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Pass Needed
A $5 day pass is required for parking. Have cash or card ready!
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Be mindful of rocks and metal debris on the trail. Keep kids close!
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable here. Plan ahead for navigation.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome on this easy, scenic hike.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The old bridge offers fantastic photo opportunities with the river.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Old Pipeline Bed Trail for its easy accessibility, beautiful scenery, and the charming historical bridge. It's frequently described as a 'magical' and 'gorgeous' short hike, perfect for families and dog owners. Some minor concerns include the need for a parking pass and being mindful of trail debris.
"Nice little hike along the river, it's an out and back that shouldn't take you more than 30 minutes or so one way. Beware of metal sticking out along the trail. Some beautiful views and places to stop for a snack.
There seems to be plenty of parking and there's an outhouse also. I read that America the beautiful passes are accepted here so I put mine in the window and we didn't get a ticket 👍
Have fun!"
Tim Traveler
"We crossed the bridge and went to the first creek. Didn’t go any further. Very good trail up to that point, however there are a few obstacles to be aware of so that you don’t trip. A lot of rocks and some metal in the ground. Probably best to keep children close to you."
Parrish
"Beautiful hike recommended to us! We didn’t have time to walk the whole trail but the part we did hike was magical and was the highlight of our trip to Leavenworth!"
Rebecca Kehoe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Pipeline Bed Trailhead is located west of Leavenworth, WA, in Tumwater Canyon. It's easily accessible by car from Highway 2. Follow signs for the trailhead. +1
Yes, there is a parking area at the trailhead. It's relatively small, so it can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. Arriving early is recommended.
From the parking lot, the Old Pipeline Bridge is a short walk away, making it easily accessible for most visitors.
Public transportation options directly to the trailhead are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access this location.
The trailhead is generally well-marked, and many visitors find it straightforward to locate. GPS or offline maps can be helpful.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a $5 day pass is required for parking. Visitors have mentioned using America the Beautiful passes, but it's best to confirm or have cash/card for the day pass.
The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times posted, but it's best to visit during safe daylight hours.
The fee is for parking, not for accessing the trail itself. The $5 day pass covers your vehicle for the day.
Information on purchasing day passes online is not readily available. It's typically purchased at the trailhead or a nearby ranger station.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, the America the Beautiful pass is mentioned as potentially being accepted.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
It's a relatively easy, out-and-back trail that follows an old pipeline route along the Tumwater River. It's known for its scenic views and historical bridge.
The trail is approximately 2.4 to 2.5 miles round trip, making it a short and manageable hike for most. +1
Yes, it's considered very family-friendly and toddler-friendly due to its flat terrain and short length. Keep an eye on little ones due to trail debris. +1
Absolutely! Leashed dogs are welcome on the Old Pipeline Bed Trail, making it a great option for pet owners.
You'll find beautiful forest views, the rushing Tumwater River, and the historic Old Pipeline Bridge. Wildflowers are also present in spring.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic iron bridge itself is a prime subject. Capture it from different angles, with the river and surrounding nature as a backdrop.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the bridge still makes for a striking subject.
The bridge itself provides excellent vantage points. You can also find scenic spots along the riverbanks for wider landscape shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the bridge and landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or wildlife if you're lucky.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest for current rules before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring the $5 day pass for parking, and consider downloading offline maps as cell service can be unreliable.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Capturing the bridge during golden hour can yield stunning results with warm, soft light. Beyond the bridge, the rushing river offers dynamic shots, and in the spring, wildflowers add pops of color to the landscape.
The trail itself provides opportunities for capturing the serene forest environment and the textures of the natural surroundings. 🚶♀️ Casual Strollers & Day-Trippers
The short distance means you can easily fit it into a day trip to the Leavenworth area without committing a large chunk of time. The scenic views of the Tumwater River and the historic Old Pipeline Bridge provide plenty of visual interest.
+1 You can stop to enjoy the river, take photos, or simply relax by the water. The sandy beach area is a great spot to unwind. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Stroll Through History: The Old Pipeline Bridge
Today, it serves as a popular footbridge, allowing visitors to traverse the Wenatchee River and experience a tangible link to the past. Crossing the bridge offers a unique perspective of the river's power and the surrounding natural beauty. Many visitors find the bridge to be a highlight of their visit, appreciating its historical significance and its role as a scenic landmark. It's a fantastic spot for photos, offering a blend of industrial heritage and natural splendor. The bridge's sturdy construction and elevated position provide excellent views of the river below and the forested canyon walls.
+1While the bridge itself is a focal point, the trail leading to and from it is equally enjoyable. The Old Pipeline Bed Trail is generally flat and easy, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors, including families and those looking for a leisurely walk. The trail's path allows for a pleasant exploration of the riparian environment, with opportunities to observe wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the Pacific Northwest.
Navigating the Old Pipeline Bed Trail
While the trail is generally smooth, visitors should be aware of potential hazards. Metal debris and rocks can be present along the path, so wearing sturdy footwear and keeping a close eye on children is advised.
For those planning their visit, remember that a $5 day pass is required for parking at the trailhead. Cell service can be spotty in the area, so downloading offline maps is a practical tip for navigation.
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