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Perfect low-elevation family hike on the way to Mt. Rainier
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The White River borders Federation Forest
Sandwiched between Highway 410 and the White River, Federation Forest State Park is a small jewel within the Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest. At an elevation of 1,650 feet the 12 miles of trails remain relatively snow-free year round.
Families in particular will enjoy a day trip to the park. The trails, soft and cushy from the forest duff, wind through dense stands of towering evergreens dripping with thick moss. A staircase and boardwalk lead down to the 19,000-foot-long section of waterfront along the north bank of the White River. The power of the water and its ability to change the landscape is evident. On occasion, deer or elk may be visible grazing along the bank.
Part of the intrigue of this park lies in its history. Settlers with the Longmire party walked through this very area in 1853 as they descended from Naches Pass, headed for the Puget Sound. Many of the same majestic trees that greeted them still stand. Evidence of these earlier inhabitants includes remnants of an 1850 wagon road and an old cabin from the 1800s. Springboard notches, used by 19th century loggers, are visible in huge fir stumps.
Pick the right trail and kids will delight in "discovering" a tiny gnome village, carefully tended by a mysterious group of local hikers. Kids can open small doors, peer into "windows" and leave tiny gifts or notes to the gnomes.
Federation Forest is a perfect picnic spot on the way to visit Mt. Rainier. Drive through Enumclaw on Highway 410 for 18 miles. Turn right just past milepost 41. The Interpretive Center at the park is closed in winter, but trails are always open. Guided ranger tours can be arranged by calling 360-663-2207 in spring/summer seasons.
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