Federation Forest State Park

Green, mossy old growth trees and miles of level hiking are the main attractions at Federation Forest State Park. More than 12 miles of trails wind through the forest and hikers can put together loops to fit their hiking needs, but the popular Hobbit Village buried deep in the park has been removed because of vandalism and litter left behind.

An interpretive center is open April through October, with interpretive trails looping out from it. The East Trail leads to an enormous Sitka spruce, with signs identifying native plants along the way. Other huge trees in this forest include Douglas firs, western hemlock, and western red cedar. The West Trail leads to the impressive White River, which runs white from glacial run-off from Mount Rainier.

When it was still around, the Hobbit Village lay to the west along the Naches Trail, a remnant of a pioneer trail in the mid-1800s. It was a fun destination for kids, but the maintenance of these trails has been somewhat neglected in recent years. The path can be muddy with blowdowns, making it difficult for children (or adults!).

If it is open, be sure to visit the Catherine Montgomery Interpretive Center to learn about the preservation of this land by the General Federation of Women's Clubs (hence the Federation in the park name) and the native flora and fauna of the region.