Foothills Regional Trail

Pack up your pup and head to the Foothills Regional Trail in the town of North Payallup. This Washington State trail located in the central western portion of the state offers hikers a 15-mile journey.

You can walk the entire distance on this paved path which is suitable for all fitness levels and is handicapped accessible. It is a former 1877 Burlington Northern Railroad line that has been converted into a hiking trail, or rail-trail.  The Foothills Regional Trail runs to the base of Mount Rainier which can be seen the entire length of the hike.

This very scenic hike will take you across railroad bridges, through forested areas, and out into open grassy plains of the area. You can also expect to cross the Carbon River which flows swiftly under the bridge. Be sure to snap some pics of you and your pup here or maybe a video with the sounds of the water rushing by. Although you can reach the water on foot, it is advised not to let your fur-ever friend enter the water as it is icy cold year-round and has dangerous currents.

This is the only trail in the United States that has posted signs for evacuation routes from Mount Rainier, which remains an active volcano. About halfway through your journey, you will reach the town of Orting which offers a bicycle repair place for those who are travelling the trail that way, and a few pup-friendly cafes where you can refuel yourselves. 

The town of South Prairie is your destination, should you desire to hike the entire length of the trail. There are picnic shelters set up specifically for hiker’s use with spectacular views of the year-round snow-covered mountain.

Foothills Regional Trail is a pawtastic, scenic hiking trail in Washington!