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Explore Capitol Forest

Capitol Forest is the perfect place to bring Fido. Photo credit: Hannah McLean

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There are few things better than taking a hike. The crisp, clean air, stunning vistas, the solitude and the plentitude of the natural world. There's a lot to appreciate, and it's even better when you can do it with your best friend, of the four-legged kind. Capitol Forest, a working forest that straddles Thurston and Gray's Harbor counties is the perfect place to do just that. Grab your leash and take a day trip for a dog-friendly hike in Capitol Forest.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Capitol Forest comprises 110,000 acres of dual-purpose land. It is trust land where many types of recreation are permissible, and is also a working forest - one of DNR's most productive, in fact - where high-yielding timber production provides sustainable revenue in support of schools and universities, and many local public services.

Location

With its central location, Capitol Forest is within an easy drive from Olympia, Tacoma, Aberdeen, Centralia, Chehalis and Vancouver. Folks from Gray's Harbor, Lewis, Clark, Pierce and Thurston counties regularly recreate in Capitol Forest, with opportunities to trail run, hike, mountain bike, use off-road vehicles, target shoot, and best of all, hike with your pup.

Expert Advice

Avid forest-user Hannah McLean gets out into the forest with her dog about once a week. Hannah has intimate knowledge of the trails as she regularly runs them in long distances. As an ultra-runner, she runs farther than 26.2 miles (marathon distance) at a time, and is well-versed in trail conditions, popular routes, and distances. "All of the trails are dog-friendly," she said. "My pup, Timber, loves going out to Capitol Forest."

Hannah shares some of her favorite trails and combinations to make for hikes of varying lengths. Whether you're looking for a short stint, or a longer route, Capitol Forest offers it all.

  • Out of Fall Creek Trailhead

    • Lost Valley Loop (~8 miles)
    • Greenline - Greenline Tie - Wedekind Loop (~9 miles)
    • Greenline - Crestline - Wedekind Loop (~15 miles)
  • Out of Margaret McKenny Trailhead

    • McKenny - Mima Falls - Campground Loop (~6.5 miles)
  • Out of Mima Falls Trailhead

    • Mima Falls - Mima Falls Tie - Campground Loop (~5.5 miles)
    • Mima Falls - Mima West - McKenny - Campground Loop (~13 miles)
    • Mima Falls - Mima West - Lost Valley - McKenny - Campground Loop (~20 miles)

It's important to note, dogs should be on a leash that is no longer than six-feet while visiting the Capitol Forest.

Refreshments and Relaxation

Olympia is just a short drive away and has many dog-friendly dining spots. There's a wide array of food truck hot spots in downtown Olympia, at each end of Fourth Ave. With all of these spots having outdoor seating, it's a place where both you and your pooch can relax after a great hike together.

The Capitol Forest is also located near a brand new City-owned dog park, should you want to let your dog off-leash for a bit.

Forget something? You can get gear or food for your furry friend at The Pet Works in downtown Olympia. They've got a robust selection, and are also located on Fourth Ave. And if you want to make a longer stay of your visit, check out Olympia Hotel at Capitol Lake. They're dog-friendly!

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