McCormick Forest – Gig Harbor WA

This 122-acre site is divided into two parcels, the larger of which was transferred to Pierce County from the Washington State Department of Natural Resources on June 4, 1996, “to have and to hold as long as the land is developed, maintained, and used for a public park.” The park also includes three smaller parcels on the east side of State Highway 16.

Through a Pierce County Conservation Futures grant, the Peninsula Park and Recreation District acquired 23 acres in 1995. Following the formation of the Peninsula Metropolitan Park District in 2004, all of the parcels were transferred to it.

McCormick Forest Park contains approximately 50 acres of old-growth Douglas Fir. The State Department of Natural Resources manages the timber resources, and all timber revenue goes to that department.

The renovation and expansion of the trail system began in 2001, when high school runners completed senior projects. Several Eagle Scout projects have added or improved trails, built an information kiosk, built bridges, and built picnic tables over the years. Many other volunteer groups, as well as inmates from the Washington Correctional Center for Women, have worked to improve the park.

With the assistance of Master Gardeners and WCCW inmates, the meadow was cleared of blackberries and old tires in 2002.

The trail system is more than 4 miles long in total, with routes through old growth forest and several views of McCormick Creek.

Parking for McCormick Forest is available thanks to a collaboration between Gig Harbor Fire and Medic One at the fire station across Bujacich Road from the park.

On the Kitsap Peninsula, McCormick Forest Park is a fantastic hiking destination. McCormick Creek serves as the trailhead for a large network of trails.

With 122 acres to explore, visitors to Gig Harbor will find a variety of trails ranging from flat to 200 feet in elevation gain. Enjoy old growth trees, a plethora of wildlife, and over three miles of trail.

Look down into McCormick Creek Canyon, or tilt your head back and admire the massive trees. There is also a fenced-in dog park where Fido can run around and interact with other dogs. Dogs must be kept on a leash outside of the fence.

Directions

11 min (5.6 miles)
via WA-16 W
Fastest route, the usual traffic

14 min (5.0 miles)
via Bujacich Rd