Federation Forest State Park — Attraction in Enumclaw

Federation Forest is like that gift you get on Christmas when you are expecting the best thing to be in the big box, but when you open the little box you get the real surprise. I have been going here since I was a small child and have always enjoyed it. Just a short drive up 410 from Enumclaw there are a number of short mostly flat trails that wander through second generation Pacific Northwest woods. These trees are huge and spread out. There are even some old growth trees you can see as you follow the well beaten paths. As you enjoy your stroll you'll be overwhelmed by the beautiful mosses and fallen trees. You can choose many paths. There is a great short loop, maybe 1/2 mile, that takes you to the White River. When you drive in you will see the visitor center on your right and pass the payment booth. Park near the end of the parking lot and you will see a little hiker sign on the right side of the parking lot. Take this trail and stay left at the 'Y'. After a short ways you come to the picnic area with a covered area. Continue on to the road for 100ft and get back on the trail. This will take you out to the river bank where you can sit in the sun on a lovely lawn with a few picnic tables and even a pit toilet if you need it. The view is excellent. When you are ready to head back take the trail that heads down river from the grassy lawn. This trail is a bit more rugged, but you can make it! Still a very flat trail, this return trip will take you through the ever changing "edge" of the woods by the river. The sounds of rushing water lul you into wanting to slow down and admire the varieties of Northwest Giants: Sitca Spruce, Douglas Fir, Western Cedar to name a few. They are all there and have been for many years. These trees are just amazing. Soon you will come to another intersection where you will have various signs. If your ready to head back to the parking lot then head straight, then right, then left. This will take you to the visitor center where they have a wonderful interpretive forest. The state forest has labeled the different types of plants typically found in the PNW. If you are looking for a great place to get out and have a picnic in the woods by a river there is no better place than Federation...

2022 Feb 16 WED 09:30 -to- 11:15, i was in Federal Forest S.P. for a ramble CW: (E) White River Trail Lands of the Giants Loop Trail West Trail Interpretive Center *North Trail ~0.25 mi East 410 (E)

(*) i went across 410 to continue my ramble on the North Trail - East. After 0.25 miles - upon encountering the clutter of (10x) down trees .. i "surrendered" .. i don't want to mess around going through it .. it seemed too dicey for me .. And so i turned-out to return by 410-road to Loc_E where i parked my vehicle 😅

Though there were also some tree falls across those other Trails, they were easily passable.

During my 1:45 3 mile in the Forest (and excluding those vehicles passing-by on 410), i didn't see anyone else. Also, i did have lots of fun and very enjoyable ramble despite the Forest "un-manicured" state (the Park is Closed for Winter), it was beautiful in its own way .. and there were many interpretive sign-boards/information to read & learn .. 😊😊😊

Happy Trails...

We came across this little Gem on our way back from visiting some trails close by. It was like finding a secret hidden place that no one knew about. The trail was easy, peaceful and beautiful. After walking a short 10 minutes, you end up on green grass with the sound of a rushing river just ahead. 😌 This place is perfect for a day away from life, and those who can appreciate the sounds of pure nature at its finest. The parking was easy and enough space to accommodate large trucks. We will definitely be coming back spend the day relaxing and enjoying the...