We were at the lower park playground it was nice and clean Words words all ljgdssdgjlkgfds read more

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An easy, enjoyable area to walk around the historic waterfalls. The scenery is lovely and the information was interesting. read more

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This is an excellent park for locals and tourists alike. This is a privately owned park, it is not owned by the city. It is well kept and beautiful. During salmon season it is fun to watch the salmon make the long hard swim upstream to the hatchery. Great place for senior pics, wedding pics or family photos. The duck dash the first weekend of June is a lot of fun. Seeing thousands of plastic ducks make their way down the falls is so cool for kids and adults. Paths are easy for walking, we even wheeled my grandma in her wheelchair years ago. Mind you, up hill was a bit of a workout but she enjoyed the scenery. The falls are fun to see year around. Different landscapes for different seasons. It loses a star because the kids playground stinks. They need a serious update and refresher. Just a few chunks of cement shaped like a boat. Lock your cars and hide your valuables- occasional break ins by lowlife thieves. read more

This is SUCH a beautiful park! We came here with a couple of our friends and their infant daughter. It's the perfect place to come walking - it's perfect for all ages and body types (cough cough even pregnant people who can't breathe after walking up a flight of stairs). There's several side trails and little coves to check out, but we stayed pretty much on the main trail. Along the trail there's so many pretty things to look out and a great amount of waterfalls along the trail too. Definitely a gorgeous spot to check out if you're in the area. They also have a restaurant over looking the park and falls that might be nice for a weekend meal! read more

Olympia Tumwater Foundation - View from one of the bridges - Parks Near Me - Tumwater, Washington

Gorgeous day over at the Tumwater Falls today. Walked over during lunch and enjoyed the sunshine and a brisk walk around the trail! Very peaceful with an occasional dog walker ( its dog friendly ) and everyone has their dog on a leash and cleans up after their pets too! It's clean and plenty of room in the park area to picnic or sit and have lunch at the picnic tables. read more

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Scenic, beautiful and free! I was intrigued the entire walk with high energy waterfalls, rushing river, and beautiful natural gardens. It's an easy hike with minimal grades and while the split-rail fence blended in nicely with the environment it is not the safest for small children. This body of water was once the bragging rights to the now defunct, Olympia Brewing Company, with its tagline on every label "it's the water." The plant still over looks the park but has been repurposed. We strolled for about an hour but I'm sure if the salmon were on their run it may have consumed even more time. read more

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What a fantastic hidden gem of a park in Tumwater! I stumbled upon the existence of the Tumwater Falls when researching restaurants on Yelp to try on our long weekend in the area and saw photos of the falls in some of the restaurant exterior pics. The falls are beautiful and the trail doing down the Deschutes River as it heads into the Puget Sound is a lovely stroll. There is a trail on both sides of the river with a couple bridges where you can cross. The trail is pretty flat with minor inclines and manageable for most of it if you have a stroller. There is one section towards the end with stairs if I remember correctly and I don't think there are many benches (I could have missed 'em) but it isn't a long trail. There is a medium-sized parking lot for the park with restroom facilities. There was also a grassy, shaded area off of the parking lot with picnic tables. read more

Tumwater was the first settlement for settlers in Puget Sound in 1845, 5 families and 2 single adults. That's saying something. Don't miss the plague commemorating this! We visited on a cool fall day, a Friday in October. It was not crowded, and thus, sufficiently quiet for one to immerse oneself into the sounds of the falls or rushing waters. There are two paths alongside the river, connected by bridges at the start and at the end. We walked on the right path downstream, and came back on the left path upstream. The overhanging trees with their fall colors helped one settle into nature. As we neared the end, where the river flows into the lake, we could see sea gulls gathered near the mouth, swimming on the river. And then suddenly, one catches sight of a few sea gulls, flying up 3 to 4 feet above the water, before dive bombing into the water, and plucking some meaty mussels, clams etc from the river bed. What a sight! Salmon were gathering near the river, seemingly resting after a long journey. Some didn't make it, and their bodies rested in the river beds, on the river banks. Coming back upstream, the fish ladders were more visible on this side of the river. The ladders were only recently established in 1952. Amazing to consider this salmon run was artificially established 66 years ago (prior to that, the salmon could not get over the falls). There are steps required on the bridges, but most of the paths are wheel chair accessible. Rest rooms are available. It was a pleasant one hour plus. Would highly recommend. read more

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This is a gorgeous park! If you come here during the spring or in the winter you will see waterfalls every where and at their best! This park is simply splendid to walk through! You can go on a loop all aound the park and you can really get some amazing views and picture opportunities! The place is tranquil and peaceful, despite it having quite a few people there also sharing in it's splendor! The park even has an office that you can go to to get more information about the place! This is kind of a hidden secret in the town of Olympia if you ask me and it is worth going back to! Time and time again! read more

Olympia Tumwater Foundation - A small waterfall along the walking trail in the park! - Parks Near Me - Tumwater, Washington

Me and my family had a wonderful time taking pictures and getting some fresh air at Tumwater Falls. Excellent view, very clean and even environmentally friendly! I definitely recommend this to families and individuals trying to get out a little while still enjoying an eye full! read more

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Second review of fall. One of my favorite falls. As a child we went all the time to this place. Upper, middle and lower falls all easy access. Restrooms located next to park/main parking. Picnic tables and some benches throughout the park. We went during a downpour. Always the best time to view the beautiful falls. Bring comfortable -hopefully water proof for the walk. Jist a heads up..the lower falls has lots of mist and stairs. Love it, even on rainy days read more

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This is a gem in the midst of our area. To have such a lovely setting, the rushing river, rapids and falls, enhanced by the spawning salmon this time of year. The trail around the rapids and falls is an easy walk, perfect for people of all ages. As a photographer, I can take photos in an environment similar to what I'd have to drive and hike miles to. How convenient is that?! I visit the park many times a year, never tiring of it. The natural setting is constantly changing. read more

Don't try floating to the falls park. River is blocked halfway through the golf course. Although there was a possible way over the ~50yds of logjam, it didn't seem safe. We had to walk to the road and call a Lyft. read more

This is a beautiful park that the whole family will enjoy. The funny thing is one minute you're driving down a busy street then upon entering the park you're transported away from the noise of the highway. The walkways are easy to use and it's an easy walk around the falls. The falls are supplied by the Deschutes River. There were all types of people that were able to access good views of the falls. Old, young, strollers, electric wheel chairs, a blind man, thin, heavy, and out of shape Yelpers like me! I wouldn't let a small kids run around on their own here. The park is well maintained, has benches along the way, and little side trails to check out. There are some small grades and stairs along the trail depending on how far down you go. There are also some steel plate grades along the way so I'd leave the high heels at home. There are pretty flowers along the trail and a restaurant that overlooks the falls. I saw about 20 salmon in the river but they were not ready to start heading up. They were hiding out in a shaded area of the river at the lower end of the park. read more

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I5, our life blood. It connects my Portland home with Seattle and Vancouver. We all know car's boredom. This park, in I5's shadows, is a perfect break. Though I5 roars to the West, you will find a pond, fish ladders and the remains of an old brewery. It's a great break and picnic spot. read more

I can't believe this little park is nestled next to the hustle and bustle of I-5. The sounds of the busy highway are drowned out by the power of the falls. Tumwater Falls Park is a very nice place. There is a bit open field if you just want to lay in the grass in the sun or sit in the grass or on a bench in the shade. The trail around the falls is about a half a mile but there is a lot of variation in the trail so you really get a work out. There are public restrooms and ample parking. I like how at the beginning of the trail you can walk over the water on top of grates so you can see the power of bature below you. If this isn't your bag, then take the pebble trail right next to it. The park may seem small but there are upper, middle, and lower falls, high trails, and low trails. It's dog friendly with doo bags stations all over the place. It is somewhat handicap accessible I didn't see any handicap spots but it doesn't mean they aren't there. And if you're in a wheelchair it might be strenuous, but it's duable. I like that they provide spots that detail the history of the falls and it's many purposes (hydroelectric plant, beer manufacturing, and a salmon hatchery. Hopefully I can make it back in September to the fish ladder to see the salmon or maybe go see the releasing of the little yellow ducks. This really is a hidden away gem in Tumwater/Olympia. read more

Olympia Tumwater Foundation - Parks Near Me - Tumwater, Washington

Have always driven past this park and I finally went on a quiet Saturday morning it has a cool native plant garden and a nice trail that runs along both sides which is cool got some great pics that I will share great place locally to see nature and a walk read more

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This is one of the greatest gems in the Oly/Tumwater area. It is always perfectly manicured and you never see litter along he trails. The staff do a great job keeping up the trail and grounds. We've been here several times but certainly appreciate the park most when the salmon are running. It is so much fun to watch the excitement and amazement on a small child's face when they see a salmon leaping up the falls! The trail loops around and can be a bit steep in some places or even a bit slick in wet weather. My favorite spot is at the bottom of the falls where you can get totally sprayed by the falls. If you've been to Niagra Falls you know what I mean... Just on a smaller scale! Highly recommended for adults and even the smallest of children. Such a great find in the middle of our little city! read more

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Pictures are sometimes better than words! the paths are beautiful : http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/tumwater-falls-park-tumwater?select=g6gM5MWVXVatL3RNSDiOaQ#ggEFjaexcWJ5VW-ZB8TQTA the bridge structures are amazing! : http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/tumwater-falls-park-tumwater?select=g6gM5MWVXVatL3RNSDiOaQ#xXlZlsnCa9B3u8XkQ_5RmA the trees are surreal : http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/tumwater-falls-park-tumwater?select=g6gM5MWVXVatL3RNSDiOaQ#kbcuLJVCCYBUEPqXBHE2eQ the falls are.... refreshing :) : http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/tumwater-falls-park-tumwater?select=g6gM5MWVXVatL3RNSDiOaQ#YfN8iMR5spZ22CY3fQ7-7g and salmon ladder is pretty cool too! : http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/tumwater-falls-park-tumwater?select=g6gM5MWVXVatL3RNSDiOaQ#fI7P4j1ZoWJlE94ZljlUzw so what is the salmon ladder? Our host tried to explain.... many of you know already, to breed, salmon swim up-stream. in nature, they have rocks, fallen trees, etc. to rest on while swimming up stream. b/c the falls are surrounded by man-made structures, the "ladder" was created to assist the salmon while swimming up-stream. if you look at the picture, there is a zig-zag type structure in the water - this is where the salmon take breaks while swimming. the falls and all the surrounding nature are simply amazing. it is an easy hike, and really great to go during salmon season, which is around September - October. if you're in the area, take a hike here! read more

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Beautiful ! Its a FREE attraction so that makes it even more awesome! You can take a nice little trail and walk throughout the waterfalls and greenery! The trail is nicely paved and very easy to access. The views are breathtaking and the sound of the waterfalls is very relaxing. There are plenty of places to stop and take great pictures. Definitely a must-see if you are passing through this area! read more

Olympia Tumwater Foundation - Parks Near Me - Tumwater, Washington

Beautiful place to get a nice walk in. Not a nature trail by any means, but a well groomed path along the waterfalls in Tumwater. Nice and safe, and you can get great pictures. Plenty of parking and a quick excursion: can easily walk the entire path in under an hour. read more

Olympia Tumwater Foundation - Parks Near Me - Tumwater, Washington

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This place is definitely a hidden gem but yet a convenient location (right by the 5 freeway) Easy trail and kid friendly. I definitely recommend checking this spot out! read more

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Such a pretty park. Sometimes there are waterfalls along the walking path. If you go at the right time of year you can see the salmon running. Nice place to picnic. The play area for the kids is lacking...but plenty of space for them to run around. read more

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A beautiful walking path full of waterfalls and running Salmon in certain months. Dogs must be leashed for their safety. read more

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This place really is a hidden gem. The hike is very easy. Very dog friendly. The loop around can easily done within an hours time. Restrooms are clean and there are many areas where you can stop and take a photo. read more

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Very nice, easy parking and not a lot of people! I had a great picnic with my partner and I will definitely come again! read more

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It's so beautiful here! I love that the trail is clean and easy for even a young kid to walk. They are currently doing construction so I'm excited to see what it looks like when it's done. read more

Tumwater Falls has been a place my parents have taken me to since I was a child. I have so many wonderful memories here with my family and friends from picnics, get together's, walking the trails, admiring waterfalls... I've done so many photoshoots for clients here that have turned out STUNNING. Although I've never been to the restaurant personally, I can smell the intoxicating aroma lurking the path as I walk along. One day I'll stop in and see if it tastes as good as it smells! read more

Tumwater Falls Park is so gorgeous and only about 30 mins from #JBLM! The kids had a blast exploring and the mist from the falls was nice on such a hot day! #JBLMareathingstodo #TumwaterFalls #TumwaterFallsPark #waterfalls #summerfun read more

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I have enjoyed this park since I was a child. The park keeps unfolding its gifts of wonders from the clean well kept parking lot and restrooms through-out the bridges, waterfalls and trails. I have always enjoyed all of the bountiful animals especially the salmon during the salmon run season. (Here is where I learned that the fish actually DO have ladders and they use them to rest from their long difficult trek up the pounding downward flow of the never ending water). The park used to be associated to what used to be the Olympia Brewery. When the brewery closed its doors, the park, thankfully, remained open. It is a gem and has remained well kept and wonderfully taken care of all of these years. The restaurant above has some seating of the park grounds and the falls below. The falls run from the Deschutes River above and flows into Capital Lake later empting into Puget Sound and becoming salt water. ( I should know more but that's about the extent of my knowledge on this topic). During the salmon run, in particular, the seals can be found looking for a free bite to eat and a salmon to catch! Come to the park most any time and enjoy a picnic and a day hike/walk thru the trails. They have so much to offer! Good for the whole family. Hold your little ones hand on the trails as they are along the water at times. read more

We came here yesterday and it was a beautiful 75 degrees and sunshine! This place turned out to be way prettier than we expected and we enjoyed the short looped trail along the river. We had our son in his stroller and there was one small area with terraced steps that was a pain to go up carrying the stroller but it was doable with me and my husband. But I imagine it would have been easier if we had started the trail in the other direction. We all enjoyed the walk and the waterfalls - even my 16 month old! read more

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The Tumwater Falls Park is great. Some of the waterfalls are artificial and some are legit. There is a salmon hatchery. The lower falls is a great place to take pictures of Salmon jumping up the falls when they are spawning. It doesn't matter what time of year it is, the park is beautiful and serene. read more

Absolutely fantastic. Stopped here for a lunch break on the way back to Portland from a weekend in the Seattle. This location is very convenient to I-5 making it a great place to stretch your legs, read some Olympia history, and see some gorgeous scenery. You could make more of a day of it (fun little walk around the river) or use it as a quick stop for a break. You wont be disappointed! read more

Olympia Tumwater Foundation - Great picnic spot. Feed the meter. - Parks Near Me - Tumwater, Washington

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Great park along historic Tumwater Falls just off I-5. My wife and I visited here with our dogs on a dreary day in the winter and still really enjoyed it. The waterfall is neat, the bridges across the river are fun, and there are some nice paths that skirt the river with large trees overhead. There's also a nice view of the old Olympia Brewery. Well worth a visit. read more

This is my favorite park in the Olympia area. I can't think of a thing I don't like about it. It is easy to find and has plenty of parking. Clean restrooms and the trail is kept up perfectly! Lots of flowers and it seems something blooming almost any time of the year. I've met the security guy a few times while walking around and he is just as friendly as could be, so the staff is also 5 stars! Be sure to bring your camera when you visit. read more

Olympia Tumwater Foundation - Foot bridge over river - Parks Near Me - Tumwater, Washington

This is a really cool park and family photographer's dream but I personally don't bring my toddler here cause it gives me a heart attack. read more

Olympia Tumwater Foundation - Parks Near Me - Tumwater, Washington

Great cute little park with plenty of secluded spots to enjoy the water and quiet. Notes: You can't and shouldn't go in the water, you'll die. Salmon can be viewed here in fall In fall/winter the water gets real crazy and its definitely worth seeing. There's a restaurant overlooking the falls, the view is great but the food is meh and multiple dollar signs Tons of pokestops and ingress portals read more

I was skeptical that this place woukd only have one or 2 waterfalls if thats what you would call them. When you first walk up you see the fish gates far off a restaurant. You hear the spind of water and i was followinf my heart!!! OMG was i in for a rwal surpise!!! Water, water, water everwhere!!! All kinds of water falls. My heart danced with joy!!! I would love to come back in the winter to see if it all freezes over. I wonder how it looks when were not in a drought. Im bring everyone one here, blind folded of course, so they have to take me with them lol read more

Beautiful park, good for a nice relaxed short hike, kid friendly, bathrooms on site, as well as a restaurant at the beginning of the park. Parking is also free. read more

I was here again recently for the Duck Dash and was impressed with the improvements. They have pulled a lot of the ivy and other non-native invasive species and have instead plants lots of native plants that are just lovely and give you the sense that you are walking through a magical forest. They have also done some stone work, making beautifully crafted retaining walls and a couple flagstone paths without any mortar, just the natural stone. Of course the rush water is such a soothing sound, and a sight to behold. Walking down to the bottom of the falls is actually a pretty short walk. Beautiful retreat in the middle of Olympia. read more

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