Des Moines Creek Trail and Park
Scenic park and paved trail offering Puget Sound views, creek exploration, and wildlife spotting. Perfect for walks, bikes, and picnics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Nature awakens, fewer crowds
Des Moines Creek Trail and Park
Best Time
Nature awakens, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic park and paved trail offering Puget Sound views, creek exploration, and wildlife spotting. Perfect for walks, bikes, and picnics.
"Beautiful views and a great paved trail for walking or biking!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paved trail is great for walking, but good footwear makes it enjoyable. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized, especially on longer walks. :water_wave: :apple:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Des Moines Creek Trail
Extends from the park
A scenic paved path perfect for walking, jogging, or biking with beautiful creek views.
Des Moines Beach Park
Adjacent to the creek
Offers stunning Puget Sound vistas, picnic areas, and access to the beach.
Wildlife Viewing
Along the creek and in park areas
Keep an eye out for diverse bird species and other local fauna in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Best Gear for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paved trail is great for walking, but good footwear makes it enjoyable. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized, especially on longer walks. :water_wave: :apple:
📸 Capture the Views
The Puget Sound vistas are stunning, don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
🐶 Leash Your Pets
Keep dogs on a leash to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paved trail is great for walking, but good footwear makes it enjoyable. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized, especially on longer walks. :water_wave: :apple:
📸 Capture the Views
The Puget Sound vistas are stunning, don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
🐶 Leash Your Pets
Keep dogs on a leash to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. :dog:
♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep the park clean by taking all your trash with you. :recycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Des Moines Creek Trail and Park for its beautiful Puget Sound views and the well-maintained, accessible paved trail. It's a popular spot for walking, biking, and enjoying nature. Some visitors note that parking can be limited during peak times, and amenities like restrooms might be basic.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. It's located off Marine View Drive in Des Moines, Washington. Public transport options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the Des Moines Creek Trail and Park.
Yes, there are parking lots available at the park, which is the primary access point for the Des Moines Creek Trail. Parking can fill up on busy days, especially during summer weekends.
While the main access is through the park, the Des Moines Creek Trail is a linear path. You can potentially access it from other points along its route, but the park offers the most convenient and well-maintained entry.
Public transportation to the immediate vicinity of Des Moines Creek Trail and Park can be infrequent. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules if you plan to use public transit, or consider ride-sharing services.
From Seattle, take I-5 South to exit 151 for South 188th Street. Turn right onto Pacific Highway South, then left onto Marine View Drive. The park will be on your right. Always use a GPS for real-time traffic updates.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Des Moines Creek Trail and Park is completely free! There are no admission fees, making it an accessible and budget-friendly destination for everyone.
The park and trail are generally open from dawn until dusk. It's a public space, so hours are dictated by daylight. Always check local park advisories for any temporary closures.
The Des Moines Creek Trail is a public amenity and does not require any fees for use. Enjoy the scenic walk or bike ride without any cost.
While picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis, some areas might be reservable through King County Parks. It's best to check their official website for reservation details and availability.
For larger gatherings or organized events, you will likely need to obtain a permit from King County Parks. Contact their events department for specific requirements and application processes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, jogging, biking on the Des Moines Creek Trail, picnicking, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing at Des Moines Beach Park. It's a great spot for a relaxing outdoor escape.
Yes, the Des Moines Creek Trail is a paved path, making it suitable for strollers, wheelchairs, and bicycles. It offers a smooth and accessible surface for all users.
Restroom facilities are typically available at Des Moines Beach Park, especially near the main parking areas. It's always a good idea to confirm their operational status.
Absolutely! The creek and surrounding natural areas are a haven for various bird species. Bring binoculars for a better viewing experience of the local avian life.
Fishing is permitted in designated areas along the Puget Sound shoreline at Des Moines Beach Park. Ensure you have the necessary Washington State fishing license.
📸 📸 Photography
The Des Moines Beach Park offers stunning sunset views over the Puget Sound, making it ideal for photography. The creek itself provides lovely natural backdrops along the Des Moines Creek Trail.
Yes, the combination of the water, shoreline, and greenery makes Des Moines Creek Trail and Park a great location for landscape photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
You can often photograph various seabirds, waterfowl, and potentially small mammals along the creek. Patience is key for capturing wildlife shots.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits. Always check park regulations if you're unsure.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for opportunities to spot local birds along the creek, which can be an engaging activity for children. The relatively flat terrain ensures that even younger children can enjoy walking or playing without getting too tired. It's a low-cost, high-enjoyment destination for a family day out.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Walkers
It's a safe and accessible location for solo adventurers to explore at their own pace. The presence of other park-goers ensures a sense of security while still allowing for personal space and tranquility.
🐶 Dog Owners
Always be prepared to clean up after your pet. The beautiful scenery provides a lovely backdrop for a walk with your canine companion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Des Moines Creek Trail
As you follow the trail, you'll notice the gentle sound of the creek and the surrounding natural environment. It's a fantastic place to connect with nature without venturing too far from the city. Keep an eye out for various bird species that frequent the area, adding to the serene atmosphere. The trail is well-marked, ensuring you can navigate it with ease and enjoy the journey.
For those looking for a longer excursion, the Des Moines Creek Trail connects to other pathways, allowing for extended exploration. It’s a versatile route that caters to different fitness levels and interests, making it a beloved local amenity for outdoor recreation.
Des Moines Beach Park: Coastal Charm
Visitors often rave about the opportunity to walk along the beach, collect seashells, or simply sit and watch the boats go by. The park provides direct access to the shoreline, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest coast firsthand. Sunsets here are particularly breathtaking, casting a warm glow over the water and surrounding landscape.
Beyond relaxation, the park is also a great place for photography, with ample opportunities to capture the expansive water views, the distant Olympic Mountains, and the vibrant marine life. It’s a place where you can unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
Wildlife and Nature Observation
Birdwatchers will find plenty to observe, from waterfowl along the creek to songbirds in the trees. Keep your eyes peeled for herons, ducks, and other avian visitors. The park's diverse plant life also supports a variety of insects and small mammals, contributing to the area's ecological richness.
Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their natural behaviors. Bringing binoculars can greatly enhance your viewing experience and allow you to appreciate the intricate details of the local ecosystem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit