4.7
(3)
13
hikers
Five Mile Drive Outer Loop
01:42
6.18km
100m
Hiking
The Five Mile Drive Outer Loop offers a truly rewarding hiking experience, guiding you through a lush old-growth forest and along dramatic bluffs overlooking Puget Sound. You'll traverse natural, unpaved paths, some with exposed roots, and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the water, Vashon Island, and the distant Olympic and Cascade mountains from various viewpoints, including the Dalco Passage viewpoint. This easy 3.8-mile (6.2 km) route features about 342 feet (104 metres) of elevation gain, taking roughly 1 hour and 42 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a scenic, moderately active outing.
Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward, as it's located within Tacoma's Point Defiance Park. The trail is well-marked and generally accessible, though some sections can be muddy after heavy rains, especially in winter. It's a fantastic family-friendly and dog-friendly option, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk. Arriving earlier in the day is often a good strategy for securing parking, particularly on weekends.
What makes the Five Mile Drive Outer Loop truly stand out is its recent permanent closure to motorized vehicles, transforming it into a peaceful haven exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists. This change allows for a more immersive natural experience, free from traffic noise. The trail also offers glimpses of historical sites like Fort Nisqually and provides an excellent urban escape without venturing far from the city.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
766 m
Fort Nisqually
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
4.72 km
Dalco Passage viewpoint in Point Defiance Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
6.18 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.57 km
1.44 km
140 m
Surfaces
4.58 km
633 m
501 m
388 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (90 m)
Lowest point (10 m)
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Weather
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Today
Monday 6 July
30°C
12°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Five Mile Drive Outer Loop?
The Five Mile Drive Outer Loop is located within Point Defiance Park in Tacoma. There are multiple parking areas throughout the park that provide access to the trail. A good starting point is near the main entrance or by the Fort Nisqually area, which offers convenient access to the loop.
Is the Five Mile Drive Outer Loop dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times within Point Defiance Park. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The Five Mile Drive Outer Loop is beautiful year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flowers, while summer offers warm weather and clear views. Fall showcases vibrant foliage, and even winter provides a peaceful experience with potential for crisp, clear days to see the mountains. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially in the cooler months.
Are there any entrance fees or permits required for Point Defiance Park?
No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Point Defiance Park or to hike the Five Mile Drive Outer Loop. It is free and open to the public.
Is the Five Mile Drive Outer Loop suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the main outer loop is considered easy to moderate and is largely paved, making it suitable for most fitness levels, including beginners and families. It involves approximately 281 feet of climbing and 277 feet of descent over its 4-mile length. Some interconnected dirt trails within the park can offer more challenging options if desired.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trail?
The trail is predominantly paved with asphalt, but also includes sections of natural, gravel, and unpaved surfaces. It winds through old-growth forests and along bluffs, offering a varied experience with some gentle inclines and declines.
What views and points of interest will I see along the route?
You'll be treated to consistently beautiful scenery, including a 'forest experience' and panoramic views of Puget Sound, the Cascade and Olympic mountains (on clear days), Vashon Island, Dalco Passage, Gig Harbor, and the Narrows Bridge. Be sure to stop at the Dalco Passage viewpoint in Point Defiance Park and consider visiting Fort Nisqually.
Can vehicles access the Five Mile Drive Outer Loop?
No, since 2022, the outer loop has been permanently closed to motorized vehicles due to slope instability. This has transformed it into a dedicated path for pedestrians, runners, and cyclists, creating a peaceful environment for non-motorized recreation. Be aware that you will be sharing the path with cyclists.
Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?
Yes, the route primarily follows the Five Mile Drive and the Outside Loop Trail. It also passes through sections of the Inside Loop Trail, Spine Trail, and Promenade, offering opportunities to explore further within Point Defiance Park.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter?
While hiking, you might spot various wildlife. In the water, seals are sometimes seen. On land, raccoons are occasionally sighted. The park's diverse habitats support a range of birds and small mammals.
Is the Five Mile Drive Outer Loop a true loop trail?
Yes, as its name suggests, the Five Mile Drive Outer Loop is a circular route, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. This makes for a continuous and varied hiking experience.
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