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Puget Creek Natural Area
4.6 ★★★★★ 437 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 Puget Creek Natural Area'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.
Playground and hiking trails through the woods, also featuring picnic tables.
What runners say about Puget Creek Natural Area
“Beautiful old trees in middle of city.”
“Calm and quiet atmosphere makes it great to escape the daily routine”
This is the place that will transport you to another world with just a few steps. Don't be surprised to see the family of deer that call this place home while on your walk. Listen to the salmon creek guiding you down to the waters edge of the Puget Sound.
Trail was muddy in places. There are benches, directional signs, and a map at the trailhead. Great trail to get down to the water. Saw birds, rabbits, and deer.
Great hike for adults and kids alike. Coming back up got a trickle of sweat out of me but it wasn't too hard for the 7year old. This trail will take you out to Ruston waterfront. Beautiful views but easily done.
Great spot to take your leashes dog out for a hike/ walk. The elevation change between the parking lot/ playground is real, but the rest of the trail (toward Commencement Bay) is pretty level. A little muddy but passable. Feels like you’re in the woods right in town. Parking is limited.
Trail conditions & character
“The elevation change between the parking lot/ playground is real, but the rest of the trail (toward Commencement Bay) is pretty level.”
“Local trail feel with hard dirt path.”
“The elevation change between the parking lot/ playground is real, but the rest of the trail (toward Commencement Bay) is pretty level.”
Plan your run at Puget Creek Natural Area
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 trailheadparking, restrooms — 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 | 8 am–6 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–6 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.
Puget Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 71 reviews
Trails, playgrounds, swings, slides and picnic tables at this natural area.
Ruston Way Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 368 reviews
Waterside park featuring paved trails with beach access, picnicking, and scenic views.
Hamilton Park (Ruston Way)
4.6 ★★★★★ 176 reviews
Tranquil park with waterfront views, featuring a birdwatching spot, a walking trail and parking.
Jack Hyde Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 874 reviews
Relaxed waterfront spot providing a pier and a dock for paddleboarding, fishing and relaxing.
China Lake Park
4.3 ★★★★☆ 348 reviews
This tract of wildland surrounding a lake offers trails & nature viewing opportunities.