Swan Creek Park

Natural Beauty Awaits

Located in East Tacoma, Swan Creek Park offers a refreshing 373-acre escape from city life. This natural area features a salmon-bearing stream, wooded canyon, forest, and a network of trails that let you disconnect from the city.

The park is a collaborative effort between Metro Parks Tacoma (290 acres) and Pierce County (83 acres). At its heart lies the serene Swan Creek canyon, home to local wildlife and a resilient salmon population. If you visit during the Fall salmon run, you can witness this natural phenomenon.

Places to Play and Explore

While Swan Creek preserves its natural character, recent improvements have made it more accessible and enjoyable. You'll come across new trails, a spacious dog park, picnic spots excellent for afternoon gatherings, and convenient parking.

The trail system offers something for everyone, with 3.65 miles of paved paths for casual strolls and bike rides, plus 4.94 miles of renovated trails that wind through more rugged terrain. We particularly appreciate how some paths maintain their natural character with actual rocks instead of pavement - it feels like a genuine outdoor adventure rather than a manicured park experience.

Finding Your Way In

The Pioneer Way Parking Area is one of the main gateways to the park with a gravel lot that fits about 15 vehicles. While this entrance provides good access, amenities are minimal.

If you're looking for more developed facilities, try the entrance near the dog park and bike area - many visitors find this access point more convenient. Either way, you'll be able to connect with the Swan Creek Trail that guides you through the beautiful canyon landscape.

Things to Do

The park has become a hotspot for nature enthusiasts of all kinds. Bird watchers, hikers, picnickers, and mountain bikers all find their happy place here. Mountain bikers especially appreciate that this is Tacoma's first trail system specifically designed with them in mind.

The varied trails make for excellent walking and running routes, with scenery that transforms beautifully across the seasons. During warmer months, dogs love splashing in the creek to cool off - though always keep an eye on your four-legged friends.

Community connections flourish in the park's community garden, where locals grow their own fresh produce. And if photography is your thing, the natural settings and creek views offer countless opportunities for capturing beautiful moments, particularly as seasons change.

Nature and Wildlife

In Tacoma's urban landscape, Swan Creek Park provides an ecological space that combines recreation with habitat preservation. The creek itself is a tranquil treasure, offering quiet spots for reflection and wildlife watching.

The park's relatively undeveloped state allows for a more natural experience. Rock enthusiasts might even spot minerals like pyrite (fool's gold) along creek beds and trail areas - just one of the small discoveries waiting in this urban wilderness.