Federation Forest State Park

Federation Forest State Park is a popular State Park passed by thousands in route to popular destinations like Mt. Rainier, Crystal Mountain or Yakama. It is a popular winter destination because of the low elevation forest trails and easy access. During most of the year, if you are looking for big trees and amazing trails, continue to Mt. Rainer National Park or Chinook Pass. Still, with the dense & mossy forest, the trails are inviting, especially for families that otherwise would not hike much. Federation Forest is a day use park so no camping, just a nice place to pull over and get some easy hiking in. There are a total of 12 miles of hiking trails. Visitors have some limited access to the White River, while other short loops are on interpretive trails. Picnicking is popular as there are several picnic shelters, several picnic tables, drinking fountains and restrooms with running water. For many years there has been a Hobbit Village (marked on the map) located along one of the trails. The Naches Trail located in the park is a remnant of a pioneer trail from the mid-1800's. Everyone visits this park at least once.

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History:

The original park was a 63 acre tract just west of Snoqualmie Pass. That park, once known as "Big Tree" State Park, was given to Washington residents by the Washington State Federation of Women's Clubs in 1928. In the 30's, various misfortunes such as wind, fire and axe befell the park, leading to the decision to seek a new location with a virgin stand of timber. Through the continued interest of the Washington State Federation of Women's Clubs and the cooperation of the State Legislature, the present park was dedicated in 1949. Today the park consists of about 600 acres along White River. It is managed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission as a natural environment with man as a visitor.

Directions:

Located 18 miles east of Enumclaw. Follow Hwy. 410 east for 18 miles. At milepost 41, turn right at interpretive center entrance.

Purpose:

The interpretation has been developed to tell the story of the life zones within the State of Washington. The Interpretive Center introduces the contrasts in nature found throughout the state. Nature trails provide contact with the mountain forest community, and picnic areas provide for the enjoyment of the White River Valley landscape. In 1958 Miss Catherine Montgomery, a pioneer educator deeply interested in conservation, willed funds to the Washington State Federation of Women's Clubs for improvements to Federation Forest State Park. This money was used to construct the present interpretive center.