Dickman Mill Park

A Window to Tacoma's Industrial Past

Nestled along Ruston Way on Tacoma's Commencement Bay waterfront sits Dickman Mill Park, a 2.9-acre piece of history where nature and industrial heritage beautifully collide. This waterfront park is built on the site of the Dickman Lumber Mill, which operated from 1889 to 1977, making it one of the longest-running sawmills along Tacoma's shore.

Since opening to the public in 2001, the park has preserved meaningful pieces of Tacoma's lumber legacy while offering a tranquil escape by the water. The undeniable centerpiece? A restored 15-ton mechanical head saw that once sliced through countless logs, now standing as a silent witness to the city's timber-rich past.

Fresh Beginnings for an Historic Space

In 2021, Dickman Mill Park got a $2.9 million makeover that thoughtfully expanded its offerings while deepening connections to both history and environment.

One of the most striking additions is the weathering steel "Ghost Log" sculpture - an artistic nod to the massive old-growth timber that once passed through the mill. The sculpture thoughtfully incorporates cultural elements honoring the Puyallup Tribe's enduring connection to this land. Take a moment with the interpretive placards scattered within the park, and you'll find yourself mentally transported to Tacoma's bustling industrial heyday.

Where Land Meets Water

What we particularly appreciate about Dickman Mill Park is its waterfront access. The widened shoreline trail and new viewpoint overwater trail let visitors wander along Commencement Bay with Puget Sound stretching before them in all its moody Northwest glory.

Need a spot for some downtime? The park now features an expansive irrigated grass area great for sprawling out with a book or having a small picnic. Many visitors bring blankets to lounge on the patches of sand, though be prepared - parts of the beach are on the rockier side.

If you enjoy water activities, there are plenty of options here. Wade into the shallows on warmer days or launch your kayak or paddleboard for a closer look at the bay. Keep your eyes peeled for curious seals popping up to say hello, and bird-watchers will appreciate the variety of feathered residents that call this shoreline home.

Nature's Comeback Story

The park features significant environmental restoration work. The transformation involved clearing industrial debris from the shoreline, revitalizing nearshore habitats, and introducing native plants like dune grass and gumweed that belong in this coastal setting.

One of the most remarkable features is the recreated tidal estuary, a callback to what this shoreline looked like before the 1850s. During low tide, you can spot barnacles and other tiny marine creatures going about their business amid the carefully selected native vegetation.

Comfort and Convenience

Dickman Mill Park welcomes everyone with ADA-compliant ramps and surfaces throughout. The interpretive signs help you connect the dots between what you're seeing today and the site's rich history - offering a deeper appreciation of this urban waterfront space.

There are numerous picnic spots suitable for solo lunch breaks or small gatherings with friends, all offering excellent water views. Public restrooms are available nearby (typically open from 9 am until dusk) and are well-maintained.

What to Know Before You Go

Bring your four-legged friends along - this park is dog-friendly with plenty of space to explore together along the waterfront trail. Just remember to clean up afterward to keep the space enjoyable for everyone.

While there's no dedicated parking lot specifically for Dickman Mill Park, you'll come across spaces nearby, including across from the Harbor Lights Restaurant. The park is part of Tacoma's connected waterfront park system along Ruston Way, making it easy to extend your adventure in either direction.