Washington Native Plant Society - South Sound Chapter

WNPS South Sound Chapter - Native Plant Walks
Date: Sunday, March 15, 2026
Title/Location: Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls, 110 Deschutes Way SW, Tumwater, WA 98501
Walk Leader: Regina Johnson Contact Information cpdillongh@comcast.net 253 225-9284
Departure Time: 10am Estimated Return Time: 12pm
Departure location: parking lot Number of people: unlimited
Walk Description: A wide variety of native trees and shrubs, along with ornamentals, line both sides of the
river as it pitches and eddies through a gorge of boulder rapids and deep pools, its course culminating in a
mist-filled plunge over Lower Tumwater Falls, featured on the old Olympia Beer logos. A half-mile-long
walking trail is highlighted by views of cascading waterfalls, quiet pools, and massive rocks, and the song of the
American Dipper. Spanning the river at both ends of the gorge and connecting the network of trails are
footbridges designed for compatibility with the surroundings and historic accuracy. Interpretive signs describe
the early settlement and industrial development of Tumwater, using hydropower from the falls, and the
neighboring Olympia Brewery. There is a fish ladder and a new ethnobotany garden as well. This park is a
favorite with area families, with its easy walking path, spectacular river views, and playground.
Any special requirements: Walkers must pre-register with Cyndy Dillon
(fieldtrips@southsoundchapterwnps.org), who will send a link to a mandatory liability waiver when you
provide your email address. For the walk you will need to email the liability waiver to Cyndy or bring it to the
walk. Bring water if you need it, dress for the weather and wear good hiking shoes.
Restrooms are available.
Directions:
From I-5 South, take exit 103 towards 2nd Ave SW in Tumwater. Slight right to continue onto 2nd
Ave SW. Get into the right lane. At the light, turn left from the right lane onto Custer Way SW, then right onto
Boston St SW. Turn left at the stop sign onto Deschutes Way SW, then left onto C St SW. Turn left into the
parking lot.
From I-5 North, take exit 103 to Deschutes Way, going straight at the stop sign. Continue to the right turn
onto C St SW, then left into the parking lot.
There are 2 parking lots, plus street parking on Deschutes Way. We will meet by the flagpole next to the
park’s offices by the second parking lot. The first buildings you see by the first parking lot are for the hatchery.