Des Moines Creek Trail

Starting near King County, Washington, the Des Moines Creek Trail offers a delightful 6 km (approximately 3.7 miles) out-and-back hike with an elevation gain of around 100 meters (328 feet). This trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the Des Moines Beach Park, located at 22030 Cliff Ave S, Des Moines, WA 98198. There is ample parking available near the park. For those using public transport, take the King County Metro bus to the Des Moines Beach Park stop, which is a short walk from the trailhead.

### Trail Overview The trail begins at the Des Moines Beach Park and follows the Des Moines Creek upstream. The path is well-maintained and primarily composed of gravel and dirt, making it accessible for most hikers. The initial section of the trail is relatively flat, allowing you to ease into the hike.

### Nature and Wildlife As you progress, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery, including towering Douglas firs, western red cedars, and a variety of ferns. The trail runs parallel to the creek, providing a soothing soundtrack of flowing water. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, raccoons, and a variety of bird species, including woodpeckers and herons.

### Significant Landmarks At approximately 1.5 km (0.9 miles) into the hike, you'll come across a picturesque wooden bridge that spans the creek. This is a great spot for a quick rest and some photos. Continuing on, you'll encounter several interpretive signs that provide information about the local flora and fauna, as well as the historical significance of the area.

### Historical Significance The Des Moines Creek area has a rich history, with evidence of Native American settlements dating back thousands of years. The creek was also an important resource for early settlers in the region, providing water and a means of transportation. The trail itself was developed to offer a recreational space while preserving the natural and historical heritage of the area.

### Elevation and Terrain As you approach the halfway point of the trail, the elevation begins to increase gradually. The total elevation gain is around 100 meters (328 feet), with the steepest sections occurring in the latter half of the hike. These sections are manageable but may require a bit more effort, especially for less experienced hikers.

### Navigation For navigation, it's recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on the correct path. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can enhance your hiking experience.

### Return Journey Once you reach the end of the trail, you'll simply turn around and retrace your steps back to the trailhead. The return journey offers a different perspective of the same beautiful scenery, making it just as enjoyable as the hike in.

This trail is a wonderful escape into nature, offering a mix of serene landscapes, historical insights, and moderate physical challenge.