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Hamilton Park (Ruston Way)
4.6 ★★★★★ 176 Google reviews · Running trail in Tacoma, Washington · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Hamilton Park (Ruston Way)'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.
Tranquil park with waterfront views, featuring a birdwatching spot, a walking trail and parking.
What runners say about Hamilton Park (Ruston Way)
“This place has a great view of Cormorants in Tacoma, wa.”
“Perfect for a peaceful stroll or birdwatching, it's an ideal spot to unwind and connect with nature.”
Need a flat, paved trail to access? Hamilton park is part of the longer sound side walking path. Traffic flanks the shore side, but for the most part goes unnoticed as the clear water and activities upon it easily capture focus. There is a treasure trove of seaside restaurants for those needing sustenance.
Nice historical site with a little gravel bed beach to walk. While the gravel is imported as part of the beach restoration, there are still loads of agates, Jasper corral, petrified wood and other stones to collect, if you are a rockhound like myself.
One of our favorite parks in all of Puget Sound. I take breaks and lunches and just go for walks or park the car down here and enjoy the water. Also tons of great eats along the way!
A great place to walk and explore the shore at low tide. Easy access to several eateries and bars if one gets tired of strolling the trail.
Trail conditions & character
“Nestled by the shore, this small park offers convenient parking and breathtaking views of marine life.”
“Perfect for a peaceful stroll or birdwatching, it's an ideal spot to unwind and connect with nature.”
“Nice historical site with a little gravel bed beach to walk.”
Plan your run at Hamilton Park (Ruston Way)
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- 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 trailheadrestrooms — 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.
- Websitemetroparkstacoma.org
- Phone+1 253-305-1000
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–9 pm |
Running trails near Tacoma
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Jack Hyde Park
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Ruston Way Park
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Waterside park featuring paved trails with beach access, picnicking, and scenic views.
Puget Creek Natural Area
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Playground and hiking trails through the woods, also featuring picnic tables.
Puget Park
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Trails, playgrounds, swings, slides and picnic tables at this natural area.
