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West Hylebos Wetlands Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 1,018 Google reviews · Running trail in Federal Way, Washington · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Boardwalk
- Loop distance
- 9 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from West Hylebos Wetlands 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.
What runners say about West Hylebos Wetlands Park
“Could use some clean up in areas and some parts are a bit slippery, but otherwise lovely.”
“There were lots of birds singing and beautiful sights and lovely smells (a mock orange was still in bloom) for those like my husband who can not hear the birds.”
“A peaceful nature walk that's well maintained as long as you're on the boardwalk side.”
We love this short loop! It's quick and refreshing as the swampland and trees are dense and you can easily forget you're in the middle of town. No dogs allowed but easy for kids, just have to make sure everyone stays on the boardwalk. Sometimes it's a little slick but it's always very manageable.
Great little urban park, just off 348th. Nice place to connect with nature and breathe some fresh air. The boardwalk leads to a small lake, which typically has ducks and other creatures in and around the water. The trail is lined with various trees and plants, many noted with educational signs.
Such a cool spot. Could use some clean up in areas and some parts are a bit slippery, but otherwise lovely. It's an easy loop with lots of information along the way. I'll have to come back for a picnic when the weather improves.
Amazing spot for a walk. There’s beautiful places for a picnic and to sit down on a bench. If it’s rainy out wear appropriate shoes because the boardwalk can be quite slippery.
Trail conditions & character
“A peaceful nature walk that's well maintained as long as you're on the boardwalk side.”
“This is a worthwhile level and mostly boardwalk trail for anyone seeking to get out into nature, yet also wanting to stay local.”
“There were lots of birds singing and beautiful sights and lovely smells (a mock orange was still in bloom) for those like my husband who can not hear the birds.”
“The parking is limited with less space currently due to work being done on the historical Denny cabin.”
“I really liked that part because it lets you move through this delicate environment in a way that feels immersive while still being comfortable and accessible.”
“There is a relatively easy boardwalk loop to walk through this wetland bog.”
“No dogs allowed but easy for kids, just have to make sure everyone stays on the boardwalk.”
“The noise of everyday life faded into the background and was replaced by the gentle stillness of trees, water, and light moving through the landscape.”
“This is a worthwhile level and mostly boardwalk trail for anyone seeking to get out into nature, yet also wanting to stay local.”
“There is one porta potty at the beginning so just prepare for that.”
Plan your run at West Hylebos Wetlands Park
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceBoardwalk — flat and scenic, and slick when wet, so watch your footing
- Loop distance9 mi back to where you parked. Long enough for a real long run.
- 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.
- Websitefederalwaywa.gov
- Phone+1 253-835-6960
- 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 Federal Way
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Panther Lake Trail
4.6 ★★★★★ 186 reviews
Gravel lake trail with views of nature, for strolling and running with dogs.
