McLane Creek Nature Trail | Olympia

McLane Creek Nature Trail – Detailed Comprehensive Overview

1. Location and General Description

McLane Creek Nature Trail is a peaceful, family-friendly nature trail located just west of Olympia, Washington, within the Capitol State Forest area. The trail is situated near the McLane Creek Demonstration Forest, providing visitors with a natural retreat close to the urban environment. Covering approximately 1.5 miles as a loop, the trail offers a gently meandering path through a diverse forest and wetland ecosystem, making it accessible and inviting for hikers, families, and nature lovers.

2. Trail Features and Accessibility

Trail Length and Routes: The main loop of the McLane Creek Nature Trail is about 1.5 miles long, with alternate shorter routes available. There is a 0.6-mile inner loop for visitors seeking a quicker walk and an extended 2.2-mile loop option for those wanting more exploration.

Terrain and Surface: The trail is primarily flat with minimal elevation gain (under 50 feet), making it an easy walk suitable for all fitness levels. The surface alternates between wooden boardwalks over wetlands, compact gravel paths, and natural forest floor, ensuring both accessibility and immersion in the natural surroundings.

Accessibility: Approximately a quarter-mile section of the trail is wheelchair accessible. This includes boardwalk segments and firm, compact gravel paths designed to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers. Benches are strategically placed for rest and observation, enhancing comfort for visitors with limited mobility.

Dog Policy: Dogs are permitted on the trail but must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and maintain trail safety.

3. Natural Environment and Wildlife

McLane Creek Nature Trail traverses a rich and varied ecosystem that includes forest, creek, wetlands, and ponds, fostering a habitat for abundant wildlife:

Forest: The trail winds through a mixed evergreen and deciduous forest, featuring Douglas fir, Western red cedar, bigleaf maple, and alder trees. Understory plants include ferns, wildflowers, and mosses, contributing to the lush, green environment.

Wetlands and Boardwalks: The wooden boardwalks provide elevated paths over marshy areas, protecting delicate habitats while allowing visitors to experience the wetlands up close.

Beaver Pond: A highlight of the trail is the beaver pond, home to beavers, painted turtles, frogs, and other aquatic life. Visitors often observe beaver lodges, dams, and active beaver behavior, especially in the early morning or dusk.

Salmon Spawning: In late fall, particularly November, McLane Creek becomes a vital spawning ground for chum salmon. Raised viewing platforms allow visitors to witness the salmon run, an important ecological and cultural event in the region.

Birdlife: The trail supports diverse bird species such as wood ducks, belted kingfishers, red-winged blackbirds, and great blue herons. Birdwatching is a popular activity here year-round, with seasonal variations in species present.

Other Wildlife: Visitors may also spot river otters, raccoons, and various amphibians like newts and frogs during spring and summer months.

4. Visitor Facilities and Amenities

Trailhead and Parking: The trailhead is located at the end of Delphi Road, past the McLane Creek Demonstration Forest entrance. Parking is available nearby but requires a Discover Pass, which is a state-issued parking permit for recreational areas in Washington.

Restrooms: Vault toilets are available at the trailhead for visitor convenience.

Picnic Shelter and Benches: A covered picnic shelter near the trailhead provides a place for rest and meals, while benches are dispersed along the trail for breaks and wildlife viewing.

Interpretive Signage: Informational signs are positioned along the route, educating visitors about the local ecosystem, flora, fauna, and conservation efforts. These signs enhance understanding of the natural environment and promote stewardship.

5. Seasonal Highlights and Best Times to Visit

Spring and Summer: The trail bursts with wildflowers, active amphibians, and abundant bird activity. Warmer weather makes it ideal for extended hikes and family outings.

Fall: The salmon spawning season is the main attraction, drawing visitors eager to witness the annual return of chum salmon to McLane Creek. This event is typically from late October through November.

Winter: While cooler and wetter, winter visits offer serene forest walks with fewer crowds and excellent opportunities for spotting wintering birds and observing the forest's subtle seasonal changes.

6. Recreational and Educational Opportunities

Hiking and Nature Walks: The gentle terrain and scenic variety make this trail a perfect setting for leisurely hikes and immersive nature walks.

Wildlife Observation and Photography: The abundance of wildlife, especially around the beaver pond and creek areas, provides excellent chances for wildlife watching and nature photography.

Educational Programs: Occasionally, local organizations and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources offer guided tours, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities focused on forest ecology and salmon conservation.

Environmental Awareness: The trail’s design and interpretive materials emphasize the importance of preserving natural habitats and maintaining healthy ecosystems in urban-adjacent forest areas.

7. Directions and Access

From Olympia: Take US-101 west, exit onto Black Lake Boulevard, continue south where it becomes 62nd Avenue. Turn right onto Delphi Road and proceed to the end where the trailhead parking is located. The area is well signed and easy to find.

Parking Pass: Visitors must display a valid Washington State Discover Pass in their vehicles to park legally at the trailhead.

Summary

McLane Creek Nature Trail is an accessible, gently graded loop trail offering a tranquil escape into the natural environment just outside Olympia. Its diverse habitats-including forest, wetlands, a beaver pond, and spawning creek-make it an outstanding destination for families, birdwatchers, naturalists, and casual hikers. With well-maintained boardwalks, interpretive signage, and seasonal wildlife spectacles such as the salmon run, the trail provides both recreational enjoyment and educational value. Its balance of accessibility, ecological richness, and peaceful atmosphere positions McLane Creek Nature Trail as a premier natural attraction in the Olympia area.