Scatter Creek offers fun year-round trails on private timberland adjacent to the Scatter Creek Wildlife Area. You can explore dozens of miles of logging roads and single-track trails in this area just south of Olympia, minutes away from I-5.
While everybody refers to this riding area as Scatter Creek, the wildlife area itself is off-limits to protect several endangered species. You’ll park next to the wildlife area, then ride around its perimeter to reach the horse trails. The trails are on forest land owned by Port Blakely, Weyerhauser, and Pope and Talbot, who have graciously granted permission to the public to horseback ride here.
The area is laced with gravel logging roads and single-track trails that offer many loop options. You don’t have any scenic vistas, but the forest is quite varied, ranging from dense, shady stands of Douglas-fir and alder to recent clear-cuts.
The gravel roads offer good footing year-round, but the single-track trails can be muddy and slick after wet weather. Hunting is permitted in season.
The day-use parking area can accommodate several horse trailers. A Discover Pass is required.
You can learn more about the Scatter Creek area trails in Riding Southwest Washington Horse Trails, available at www.nwhorsetrails.com. Happy Trails!
