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Saltwater State Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 3,515 Google reviews · Running trail in Des Moines, Washington · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Saltwater State Park'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.
This park on the shores of Puget Sound has campsites, volleyball courts & an artificial reef.
What runners say about Saltwater State Park
“I did not use the restrooms, but they were clean on the outside, and the picnic tables were well cared for.”
“There's also an actual trail that runs into the woods but not as scenic.”
“Quiet hidden state park on the water.”
“Bbq areas all around and an enjoyable family friendly experience”
I’ve pass this park so many times and after many years decided to stop and check it out. I love this place, there’s 2 different hiking loops to go one. There’s plenty of parking, restrooms are available and a playground for the kids. My favorite thing is the open beach area with nothing blocking your panoramic view.
Bit of a drive to get here but totally worth it. Nice beach area and waterfront park with walking trails. There's also an actual trail that runs into the woods but not as scenic. Plenty of parking and decent amenities. Great place to chill for a few hours.
Was our last stop of the day before heading back to the airport. Beautiful relaxing park. Water front with plenty of spot to sit lay down and relax. Enjoy some cool breeze and fresh air. Family friendly and animal friendly. Nice chill spot I would say. Bathroom, BBQ area with tables.
Obviously a popular place on the Puget sound coast. The map shows trails also going up away from the coast. Picnic tables, restrooms that function, BBQ grills, lots of parking, $10 per car state park fee. The tide was out and many families enjoying the tide pools.
Trail conditions & character
“My favorite thing is the open beach area with nothing blocking your panoramic view.”
“I did not use the restrooms, but they were clean on the outside, and the picnic tables were well cared for.”
“Picnic tables, restrooms that function, BBQ grills, lots of parking, $10 per car state park fee.”
“Some very rocky areas, along with some sand.”
Plan your run at Saltwater State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- 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.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- 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.
- Websiteparks.state.wa.us
- Phone(253) 661-4956
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 AM–9:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 8 AM–9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM–9:30 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM–9:30 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–9:30 PM |
| Sunday | 8 AM–9:30 PM |
Running trails near Des Moines
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
City of Des Moines Park Conservation Area
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Scenic waterfront location featuring a marina, trails, a beach and a pier, plus picnic tables for a relaxed visit.
Des Moines Creek Trail
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Lake Fenwick Pedestrian Trail
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