Loop Trail and North Beach Trail

Starting your adventure near King County, Washington, the Loop Trail and North Beach Trail offer a delightful 7 km (approximately 4.3 miles) journey with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet). This loop 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 nearest known landmark, the King County Aquatic Center. From there, it's a short drive to the trailhead. For those using public transport, take the bus to the Federal Way Transit Center, and then a local taxi or rideshare service can take you the rest of the way to the trailhead.

### Trail Overview The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a lush forest, where you'll be surrounded by towering Douglas firs and western red cedars. The initial 1 km (0.6 miles) offers a relatively easy climb, gaining about 50 meters (164 feet) in elevation. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife, including woodpeckers and owls, which are often heard but not always seen.

### Significant Landmarks As you continue, around the 2 km (1.2 miles) mark, you'll encounter a small, serene pond. This is a great spot to take a short break and enjoy the tranquility of the water, often frequented by ducks and other waterfowl. The trail then begins to climb more steeply, gaining another 100 meters (328 feet) over the next 1.5 km (0.9 miles).

### Historical Significance Midway through the hike, you'll come across an old logging road, a remnant from the early 20th century when the area was heavily logged. This section of the trail offers a glimpse into the region's history and the transformation of the landscape over the years. Interpretive signs provide additional information about the logging era and its impact on the local ecosystem.

### North Beach Trail At approximately 4 km (2.5 miles), you'll reach the junction with the North Beach Trail. This spur trail leads you down to a secluded beach along the shores of Puget Sound. The descent is about 50 meters (164 feet) over 0.5 km (0.3 miles), and the beach offers stunning views of the water and distant Olympic Mountains. It's a perfect spot for a picnic or simply to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

### Wildlife and Flora Returning to the main loop, the trail meanders through a mixed forest of maple and alder trees. During spring and summer, the understory is vibrant with wildflowers such as trillium and bleeding heart. Keep an eye out for deer and the occasional black bear, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

### Final Stretch The final 2 km (1.2 miles) of the trail are relatively flat, making for an easy and enjoyable end to your hike. You'll pass through a series of meadows, which are particularly beautiful in late summer when wildflowers are in full bloom. The trail loops back to the starting point, completing your 7 km (4.3 miles) journey.

### Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time GPS tracking to ensure you stay on the right path.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical interest, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.