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    Wapato Lake Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    0.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    1.6 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    6 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead

    Wapato Lake Trail is a 1.6 km easy hike in Wapato Lake Park that is suitable for all skill levels. This hike circles Wapato Lake, providing access to a picnic area and dog park on the way. This trail is very easy to follow and a great choice for dog walkers who want to take advantage of the park.

    Once you’re done hiking, check out the pretty gardens and snap a photo in the gorgeous historic pergola.

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    Route Description for Wapato Lake Trail

    Wapato Lake Trail is a very short, very easy loop walk around Wapato Lake. The walk is less than a mile long and essentially flat, making it suitable for every skill level. This walk might not seem like much on its own, but the surrounding park offers lots more to keep you busy after the trail.

    Check out the beautiful gardens and the gorgeous historic pergola, which was built in 1938. The flowers bloom all year long! Or maybe plan a picnic and make use of the shelters, which are reservable if needed. There is also a dog park on the grounds for those with furry friends in tow.

    There are restrooms at several points in the park and around the lake, including near the trailhead.

    Begin from the south end of the lake. Take the trail on your left to begin walking around the east side of the lake. You’ll be between the water and S Alaska Street.

    The trail reaches a junction at the crossing between the two bodies of water. Turn right here and then head south down the other side of the lake. Pass the dog park on your left, the parking area, and the main picnic area.

    There are several intersecting trails here, but just keep going straight on your current path. You’ll walk past the bathhouse on your right and then reach a junction. Go left here to wrap around the wider side of the loop. Alternatively, you can go right to hug the shore and then take a very short connecting trail up to where you started.

    If you want to make a longer trip out of it, you can go left at the junction where you’ll cross between the two sides of the water. This connects to a trail right on the northern border of the park. You can take any of the three intersecting trails on your right to head back down to the lake past the dog parks.

    After you’re done, head into the main park to enjoy the afternoon or continue on to your next adventure.

    Trail Highlights

    Wapato Park

    Wapato Park is an urban oasis near Tacoma set around a bright blue lake. The park is designed with an afternoon of fun in mind, offering plenty of activities to enjoy: boat launches for fishing, biking and hiking trails, dog parks, games, playgrounds, picnic areas, and gardens are all here for your use. Check out the historic pergola in the annual gardens, which was built in 1938.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can you swim in Wapato Lake?

    No. You can boat in the lake, but it’s not open for swimming.

    Do I need a pass or permit for Wapato Lake Trail?

    No, no pass or permit is required to use this trail or visit the park.

    Can you fish in Wapato Lake?

    Wapato Lake is open for juvenile (under 15 years of age) fishing. It is stocked with rainbow trout.

    Insider Hints for Wapato Lake Trail

    • You can play horseshoes at the beach park.
    • Check out the gardens in different seasons to appreciate the different blooms.

    Getting to the Wapato Lake Trail Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Wapato Lake Trail is at the south end of Wapato Lake off the loop road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      Year-round

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Loop

    Wapato Lake Trail Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

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    Wapato Lake Trail Reviews

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