Swauk Forest Discovery Trail

The Swauk Forest Discovery Trail is an enjoyable 3 mile loop located just off Highway 97 at Blewett Pass. The loop takes hikers through a beautiful wooded ecosystem, complete with many species of trees and plants. Along the way are 25 different interpretive stops, each correlating to the number on a brochure that is available at the trailhead (or online here). The loop is fairly easy hiking and perfect for families with small children, or anyone looking to learn more about the diversity of Washington’s forests as well as different ecosystem components and management practices.

Begin from the trailhead and hike counterclockwise. Before long you’ll come to the first interpretive marker, and they just keep coming! Enjoy the beautiful fir forest and see if you can spot the occasional Larch. As the trail rounds the backside of a small knob the forest begins to change drastically, now heavy with Pine trees.

Continue and cross Forest Road 9716. You’ll then ascend a couple of long switchbacks up to a small knob. From the summit here is a spectacular 360 degree view.

The trail then leads downhill, through a forest dense with Larch, until arriving back at the trailhead where you began.