Visiting The Northwest Trek Wildlife Park in Eatonville, WA

Exploring an outdoor paradise

Eatonville, WA, is an outdoor paradise. The natural beauty of the lush forests shines around the town in Pierce County. Founded in 1888, the city was originally established as a trading post near Mt. Rainier. One hidden gem within Eatonville is the Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, a unique zoo-like experience. This 725-acre wildlife sanctuary is an unforgettable adventure. It provides a blend of education, conservation, and outdoor exploration. Here is everything you need to know about the beloved park.

Outdoor Enthusiasts Rejoice

Situated near the foothills of Mount Rainier, the Northwest Trek provides various activities for families of all sizes. They essentially are divided into two major sections: a free-roaming wildlife area and walking trails and exhibits that showcase wildlife from the Pacific Northwest. Feel as if you are stepping into their world during your visit to the park. From dense forests and wetlands to open meadows, you will truly feel like a member of the wild. Let’s dive further into the two distinct sections of the Northwest Trek in Eatonville.

Free-Roaming Area

The free-roaming area provides guests with up close and personal looks at the animals in their natural habitat. Within these tours, guests can book various experiences. The Keeper Adventure Tour is led by a keeper of the park, who drives a Jeep with open back seats to view and admire the animals. Guests must be 5 years of age or older to participate in this ride, but the sights and sounds are unlike anything else. 

Witness the incredible moose, mountain goat, Roosevelt elk, American bison, caribou, bighorn sheep, trumpeter swan, and black-tailed deer. For a sense of adventure, you can participate in the Wild Drive, where you drive your own vehicle through the land. This intimate experience allows you to guide yourselves through the land, building new memories along the way. Finally, their new electric trams can drive you through the free-roaming area, where you can additionally experience the awe and wonder of the animals.

Animal Walking Paths

For those who would like to get out and stretch their legs, the animal walking paths give opportunities to gaze at bears, cougars, and more. Walk through their Eagle Passage and see the meshed habitat of these glorious birds. Hear the squawks, calls, and cries of America’s bird. If you are lucky, spot some wolves and red foxes howling as they prowl through their surroundings. 

For your young ones, play in the Kid’s Trek, a playground that is nature-inspired. Ropes, slides, cabins,  a massive “tree trunk” provide ample playing opportunities for children, and relaxing opportunities for parents. It serves as a great place for children to get their wiggles out. The Cheney Discovery Center is another great stopping point, where the smaller residents, such as frogs, salamanders, slugs, and more, can be found. Finally, you can enjoy hiking on over five miles of paved trails, taking in the surrounding beauty. 

Stay At Copper Creek Inn

Located twenty minutes from Mount Rainier is our beloved property, Copper Creek Inn. Our cabins and suites provide luxurious accommodations for parties of varying sizes. More than just a place to stay, come try our delicious foods at Copper Creek Restaurant, the best restaurant in our area. Having opened in 1946, we are the oldest operated restaurant in the state of Washington. 

Try our famous blackberry pie after your day out learning about the animals within the Northwest Trek Wildlife Park. We look forward to welcoming you.