Squaxin Park
A 314-acre natural sanctuary with old-growth forests, a rose garden, and a scenic saltwater shoreline.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos
Squaxin Park
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 314-acre natural sanctuary with old-growth forests, a rose garden, and a scenic saltwater shoreline.
"Fell in love all over again with the old-growth forest and towering trees radiating a quiet energy."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be muddy and slippery, especially near the beach. Waterproof boots are recommended.
🐶 Leashed Dogs Welcome
Bring your furry friends along to explore the trails and enjoy the park's natural beauty.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Old-Growth Forest Trails
Western side of the park
Wander through towering trees and experience a profound connection with nature on these well-maintained trails.
Saltwater Shoreline & Beach
Eastern side of the park
Enjoy breathtaking views of Budd Inlet and the sunset, but be mindful of the muddy, slippery conditions.
+1
Telephone of the Wind
Beneath a canopy of trees
A poignant, disconnected rotary phone offers a unique space for reflection and remembrance.
+1
Rose Garden
Near the main entrance
A beautifully cultivated garden offering a splash of color and a peaceful spot for a stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Mud & Tides
Renamed Gem, Timeless Beauty
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be muddy and slippery, especially near the beach. Waterproof boots are recommended.
🐶 Leashed Dogs Welcome
Bring your furry friends along to explore the trails and enjoy the park's natural beauty.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
With 314 acres and diverse trails, plan for at least a few hours to fully explore.
📱 Check Tide Charts
If visiting the beach, be aware of tide times to safely explore the shoreline.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be muddy and slippery, especially near the beach. Waterproof boots are recommended.
🐶 Leashed Dogs Welcome
Bring your furry friends along to explore the trails and enjoy the park's natural beauty.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
With 314 acres and diverse trails, plan for at least a few hours to fully explore.
📱 Check Tide Charts
If visiting the beach, be aware of tide times to safely explore the shoreline.
🧺 Picnic Facilities Available
Enjoy a meal amidst nature with picnic areas and shelters, some available for rent.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Squaxin Park is widely praised as a hidden gem, offering a serene escape with its old-growth forests and beautiful shoreline. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained trails, peaceful atmosphere, and family-friendly amenities like the playground and rose garden. Some caution is advised regarding the muddy and slippery beach conditions, especially for young children.
"A hidden gem in the Olympia area
I hadn’t been to this park in a long time, but the moment we started walking from the rose garden trail, I fell in love all over again. The old-growth forest and towering trees radiate a quiet energy—I felt deeply connected to them.
We crossed the main road and made our way to the beach side, where a cool breeze and a glowing sunset made for a perfect evening. I feel truly fortunate to live near such a beautiful and peaceful place."
April Way
"A great hike for working the lower body. The trail can be muddy, dry, wonder and high steps. There is a nice railing on all of the steps. Breath taking scenery. And a well kept trail without any litter. A nice canopy of trees and views of Budd Inlett."
Shan O'Kiely
"Beautiful forest area and beach access to a very muddy and slippery beach. There are several different short trails on both sides of this park. One side of the road has the playground and beach access. The other side has more trails and a picnic area with several picnic tables. There are bathrooms here with running water and facility and trails are clean and well maintained. Easy for just about anyone to walk, great for kids and dogs are welcome on a leash."
Ashley Wiegand
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Squaxin Park is conveniently located just five minutes up East Bay Drive from downtown Olympia. It's easily accessible by car.
Yes, there is parking available within the park. It can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving earlier is recommended.
Information on public transportation routes to Squaxin Park can be found on the City of Olympia's transit website.
While some trails are well-maintained, the natural terrain can be challenging. The rose garden and picnic areas are generally more accessible.
The park has several interconnected trails. A park map is helpful, and many visitors enjoy exploring both the wooded areas and the shoreline.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Squaxin Park is a public park and generally does not require an entrance fee for general access.
The park is typically open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official City of Olympia Parks and Recreation website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
Yes, picnic shelters are available for rent. You can usually book these through the City of Olympia's online reservation system.
Yes, restrooms are available within the park, and they are generally well-maintained.
The park was formerly known as Priest Point Park and was renamed Squaxin Park in 2022 to honor the Squaxin Island Tribe.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors have reported seeing various wildlife, including bunnies and squirrels, especially in the wooded areas.
With its diverse habitats including forests and shoreline, Squaxin Park is a great spot for birdwatching.
The park features a playground, making it a fun destination for families with children.
While there is beach access, swimming is not typically recommended due to the muddy and potentially hazardous conditions of the tidelands.
It's a unique art installation featuring a disconnected rotary phone in a serene forest setting, offering a space for reflection and remembrance.
📸 📸 Photography
The old-growth forest trails, the beach at sunset, and the 'Telephone of the Wind' offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The park's diverse scenery, from dense forests to open shoreline with views of the inlet, provides ample subjects for landscape photographers.
Late afternoons and evenings, especially during the golden hour, offer beautiful light for photography, particularly at the beach.
Drone usage is typically regulated in city parks. It's best to check the City of Olympia's park rules and regulations regarding drone operation.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for forest shots and wider landscapes. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions at sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The park's diverse trails also provide opportunities for short, engaging walks where kids can discover nature. Remember to bring sturdy, waterproof shoes for everyone, as the beach area can be quite muddy and slippery. Keep a close eye on little ones near the water and mud flats. The park's restrooms and picnic areas make it convenient for a family outing. 🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Trail Runners
📸 Nature Photographers
The saltwater shoreline provides stunning opportunities for landscape shots, especially during the golden hour leading up to sunset. Don't miss the unique 'Telephone of the Wind' installation for a more artistic and poignant subject. +1 Remember to pack versatile lenses and consider a tripod for low-light conditions. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Squaxin Park
The trails are generally well-maintained, with some featuring railings on steps for added safety. You'll find a nice canopy of trees providing shade, and occasional views of Budd Inlet. While the trails are often described as clean and litter-free, be prepared for potentially muddy and slippery sections, especially after rain.
For those seeking a unique experience, the 'Telephone of the Wind' installation is located along one of these forest paths. It's a poignant spot that draws visitors looking for a place to reflect and connect.
+1The Squaxin Park Beach Experience
+1However, it's crucial to be aware that the beach area is characterized by mud flats that can be very muddy and slippery, especially during low tide. This can pose a hazard, and visitors are strongly advised to wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution, particularly with children.
One reviewer mentioned their child getting stuck in deeper mud, highlighting the need for vigilance. Despite the muddy conditions, the beach provides a refreshing contrast to the wooded trails and is a great spot for a leisurely walk, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the coastal atmosphere. The park's facilities, including restrooms, are also accessible from this side.
A Place for Reflection: Telephone of the Wind
+1This art piece has become a significant spot for visitors seeking a place to process grief and loss, offering a symbolic way to communicate with loved ones who are no longer present. The quiet, natural setting of the park enhances the contemplative experience, providing a sense of peace and healing for those who visit.
Many find solace and a sense of closure by spending time at the 'Telephone of the Wind,' making it a deeply personal and memorable part of a visit to Squaxin Park. It's a testament to how nature and art can combine to create spaces for emotional well-being.
Social
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