Best Pierce County Neighborhoods for Outdoor Enthusiasts (2025 Guide)

Pierce County is a dream for anyone who loves the outdoors. Whether you’re into hiking, kayaking, fishing, trail running, mountain biking, or simply enjoying Washington’s evergreen beauty, there are neighborhoods here that make it easy to spend more time outside and less time driving to get there.

Many of my clients choose Pierce County specifically because of how connected it is to:

• Mt. Rainier

• National forests

• Valley trails

• Lakes and rivers

• Parks and greenbelts

This guide highlights the Pierce County neighborhoods that give outdoor lovers the best access to adventure — right outside their front door.

If you’d like a broader comparison of Washington living, here’s a good reference:
Where to Live When You're Moving to Washington for Work
Let’s dive in.

1. Bonney Lake & Tehaleh — The Epicenter of Trail-Focused Living

If you love to hike, run, or mountain bike, Tehaleh is one of the best neighborhoods in Pierce County — maybe even the entire state.

Outdoor perks include:

• 30+ miles of interconnected trails

• Forested pathways

• Scenic mountain views

• Dozens of parks

• Access to foothill recreation

Bonney Lake as a whole also offers easy access to Lake Tapps, regional parks, and highland trails.

Explore more:
Living in Bonney Lake, WA (2025 Guide)
 

2. Orting — Trail Access, Mountain Views & Small-Town Outdoor Charm

Orting sits directly along the Foothills Trail, making it a standout choice for outdoor-forward households.

You’ll find:

• Long biking and walking routes

• Scenic valley and mountain views

• Easy access to the Carbon River and nearby hikes

• A slower, peaceful pace of life

It’s perfect for families, retirees, or weekend adventurers.

Explore more:
Living in Orting, WA (2025 Guide)
 

3. Eatonville — The Gateway to Mt. Rainier

Eatonville offers unmatched access to:

• Mt. Rainier National Park

• National forests

• Hiking routes

• Waterfalls

• Wildlife

For true outdoor enthusiasts, this is one of the closest communities to Washington’s most iconic adventures.

Learn more:
Living in Eatonville, WA (2025 Guide)
 

4. Graham — Forested Trails & Open Space

Graham is perfect for outdoor lovers who want:

• Large lots

• Trail access

• Quiet, natural settings

• Forested surroundings

• Proximity to Eatonville and Mt. Rainier routes

This area appeals to families who want a blend of everyday convenience and rural adventure.

Explore more:
Living in Spanaway & Graham, WA (2025 Guide)
 

5. Spanaway — Rural Pockets With Nature Trails & Lake Access

Spanaway offers:

• Spanaway Lake Park

• Shoreline access

• Wooded trails

• Proximity to Elk Plain and Roy hiking areas

For buyers who want affordability + outdoor access, Spanaway is one of the strongest Pierce County options.

Explore here:
Living in Spanaway & Graham (2025 Guide)

6. South Hill (Puyallup) — Greenbelts, Parks & Trail Loops

South Hill’s hidden nature pockets make it ideal for outdoor-minded families who want suburban convenience with:

• Forested greenbelts

• Sunrise and Shaw Road walking routes

• Neighborhood trail systems

• Multiple parks and recreation spots

Explore more:
Living in South Hill, WA (2025 Guide)
 

7. DuPont — Trails, Forest Access & Walkability

DuPont is woven with trail systems perfect for:

• Walking

• Jogging

• Biking

• Community activities

It’s one of the most walkable cities near JBLM and offers easy access to Sequalitchew Creek trails and forested pathways.

Learn more:
Living in DuPont, WA (2025 Guide)
 

8. Steilacoom — Scenic Walking Routes & Nature-Focused Living

Steilacoom offers:

• Peaceful forest trails

• Water-adjacent parks

• Beautiful sunrise and sunset walks

• A strong sense of outdoor community

It’s perfect for retirees, military families, and anyone who loves daily movement.

Explore more:
Living in Steilacoom, WA (2025 Guide)
 

9. Lakewood (Certain Pockets) — Lakes, Parks & Urban–Nature Balance

Lakewood gives outdoor lovers:

• American Lake

• Lake Steilacoom

• Fort Steilacoom Park

• Miles of walking and biking trails

It’s a great fit for those who want both recreation AND easy access to amenities.

Explore more:
Living in Lakewood, WA (2025 Guide)
 

10. Which Outdoor-Friendly Neighborhood Is Right for You?

Here’s a simple breakdown:

Best Trail Networks:

Tehaleh (Bonney Lake) • DuPont • Orting

Best for Mountain Access:

Eatonville • Graham • Orting

Best for Lakes & Water Recreation:

Lakewood • Spanaway

Best for Suburban Outdoor Lifestyle:

South Hill • Bonney Lake • Puyallup

Best for Rural Adventure:

Eatonville • Graham • Spanaway outskirts

If you want deeper lifestyle comparisons across cities, start here:
Where to Live When You're Moving to Washington for Work
 

Final Thoughts: Outdoor Enthusiasts Thrive in Pierce County

Whether you want to hike on weekends, ride bikes after work, kayak on calm lakes, or simply walk daily through forested trails, Pierce County has a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle beautifully.

This is one of the few places where nature doesn’t require a long drive — it’s woven right into how you live.

If you're dreaming of a home that keeps you connected to nature, I’d love to help you find the Pierce County neighborhood that fits your outdoor lifestyle.

Whenever you're ready, we’ll explore your options and build a plan that makes your move simple and exciting.

 Written by: Lani Fisher — Washington Realtor Helping Everyday Buyers & Sellers With Confidence