Spend a Sunny Seattle Day at Mud Mountain Dam
There are lots of parks and picnic areas around the greater Seattle area, including some great in-city, urban parks. Sometimes, though, it’s nice to get out of town, and enjoy a leisurely day away from the crowds.
Mud Mountain Dam near Mount Rainier is a nearby escape where you can combine a little history and natural beauty with your day of fun.
The dam is situated on the White River, and was built for flood control. A viewing platform gives you a look at the dam, along with a sweeping view of the White River Canyon. This area is home to lots of wildlife, including eagles, owls, heron, beaver, and elk. Depending on the time of year of your visit, you may be fortunate to get a glimpse of some of these native creatures.
The recreational area is open year-round and has picnic areas and shelters, slides, swings, and other playground equipment, along with a wading pool for cooling off on those warm days.
There are trails for hiking and mountain biking, including a nature trail that begins at the upper viewing deck and ends at the lower viewing deck, about a quarter mile down the canyon wall. It’s one ambitious hike, but from the lower platform is a great spot for photographing the dam. The three and a half mile Rim Trail and the six and a half equestrian trail are also popular with visitors.
Mud Mountain Dam recreational area is a day park, and no overnight camping is available.
Location: 30525 SE Mud Mountain Road, just past Enumclaw (map it). About an hour drive from Seattle.
Hours: Open year round, but days and hours vary based on season. Check the park calendar for your visit date. Summer hours are 9 am – 8 pm.
Admission: FREE
Photo credit: Flickr. Mud Mountain Dam; View
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2 Comments
This actually sounds like a great site to see if visitng the area!
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