Mud Mountain Dam Park

Mud Mountain Dam Park is offered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Visitors can view the dam, have a picnic, play in the kid playgrounds, hike, bike or ride horses on the trail system. In summer, there is a kids wading pool. There are 18 small picnic shelters available on a first come, first serve basis while 2 large shelters can be reserved.
The park has interesting hours for when the gate is open so check their website for the month and time of day you will be there. The trails can be accessed at any time even if the park is closed.

The Vista Trail begins at the upper observation deck, which provides views of the White River basin to the north, and Mud Mountain Dam to the south. Descending 1/3rd of a mile down moderately steep switchbacks brings visitors to the lower observation deck, providing a closer view of the dam and its operational areas.

The 2-mile Rim Trail follows the White River and provides views of ancient volcanic mudflows and other sedimentary deposits that formed the reservoir rim. This is an easy hike with terrain that is gentle to slightly sloping and offers views of the White River canyon and neighboring mountains. After 2 miles, the river trail continues. Check my link above to see more about these trails.

The flood risk reduction dam keeps the White River in check allowing cities like Auburn, Puyallup and Tacoma to not have flooding. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built the dam on the White River in the 1940s. During times of flooding, the reservoir can stretch 5.5 miles behind the dam but the reservoir is usually empty.

From Enumclaw, stay on Hwy 410 East about 6 miles and turn right onto Mud Mountain Road. Go 2.5 miles to Mud Mountain Dam Project and Park.