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Black Lake Meadows Reserve
4.5 ★★★★★ 72 Google reviews · Running trail in Olympia, Washington · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Black Lake Meadows Reserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Simple 1 mi loop for walking and jogging, with a creek, birds and beavers.
What runners say about Black Lake Meadows Reserve
“The walk also provides beautiful Red Winged Blackbirds to look at and listen to (hard to photograph).”
This was our first visit here and loved it. The loop is easy to access and clean, stroller and animal friendly. The walk also provides beautiful Red Winged Blackbirds to look at and listen to (hard to photograph). We will return.
Short walking trail around stream. Currently (December) there's flooding across the trail to the degree that normal shoes won't let you cross dry. Nice current through the section of stream closer to the road as well.
Small nature reserve with flat trails with dogs allowed on a leash. Small creek adds to feeling being away from the hustle and bustle of life. Lots of birds and recommend bringing binoculars.
Nice walking park and the dude who stays in the blue van is way cool too. He's like a part of the park and I enjoy seeing him there every time I go there.
Trail conditions & character
“The loop is easy to access and clean, stroller and animal friendly.”
“Cool little trails that are flat and easy for your older pets to take for a walk.”
“The walk also provides beautiful Red Winged Blackbirds to look at and listen to (hard to photograph).”
“Small nature reserve with flat trails with dogs allowed on a leash.”
“Not alot of parking available but its a fun little trail to walk along”
“The loop is easy to access and clean, stroller and animal friendly.”
Plan your run at Black Lake Meadows Reserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteolympiawa.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Olympia
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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Marathon Park
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