If you’re looking for a dog-friendly hike in Pierce County, you’ve got options. Our national parks are out (with a few exceptions for the PCT), but just about everything else is in.
State parks and city parks are your oysters. Keep your dog on a leash (8 feet or shorter), and you’re good to hike just about anywhere “Max” or “Luna” pulls you.
Point Defiance is always a great option, as is Dash Point or Kopachuck State Park. But if you’re looking for a hidden gem near Tacoma with creek crossings, massive trees, goats, a community garden and roadside lemonade stands, take a look at the Puyallup Loop Trail.
Where to start
The Puyallup Loop Trail, also called the Clarks Creek Park Loop (with and without the apostrophe), can be started at a number of trailheads, or simply on one of its road crossings.
The most popular (and easiest to park at and use a restroom) option is to park at the Clarks Creek Park South Entrance at 1710 12th Ave. SW in Puyallup and head out from there…