Best Pierce County Neighborhoods for Walking Trails & Nature Access (2025 Guide for Washington Buyers)

One of the biggest reasons people fall in love with Washington — especially Pierce County — is the ability to step outside and immediately feel connected to nature. Whether it’s morning walks, hiking on the weekends, or simply wanting tree-lined streets for relaxing strolls, so many buyers tell me:

“We want to live somewhere with easy access to trails and nature.”

And the great news? Pierce County has some of the most trail-connected and nature-rich neighborhoods in the entire state.

This guide highlights the best neighborhoods for outdoor lovers, active families, retirees, military personnel needing a peaceful reset after long shifts, and anyone who wants that classic Pacific Northwest lifestyle.

If you’re still comparing cities in general, this guide can help:
Where to Live When You're Moving to Washington for Work: Commute Times, School Districts & Local Culture Explained
Let’s explore where you’ll find the strongest nature access in Pierce County.

1. Bonney Lake & Tehaleh — Miles of Trails, Forest Access & Outdoor Living

If trail access is a top priority, Tehaleh is unmatched.

Residents enjoy:

• Over 30+ miles of walking and hiking trails

• Forested pathways

• Community parks

• Greenbelts surrounding nearly every neighborhood

• Beautiful mountain and foothill views

Bonney Lake’s foothill areas also offer calm, scenic routes perfect for morning walks.

Learn more about the area:
Living in Bonney Lake, WA (2025 Guide)
 

2. Orting — Foothills Trail Access & Small-Town Outdoor Charm

Orting is one of Pierce County’s most nature-connected towns. It sits right along the Foothills Trail, a paved walking and biking path that runs miles through the valley.

Buyers love:

• Walkable town center

• Mountain backdrop

• Strong trail system

• Peaceful, scenic routes

If you want easy outdoor access without sacrificing community, Orting is one of the best choices.

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

3. Eatonville — Rural & Scenic With Endless Nature Access

Eatonville is known for:

• Forested trails

• Mountain views

• Open land

• Nature preserves

• Outdoor recreation options

If you're someone who wants to hike, explore, and live surrounded by wildlife, Eatonville offers a lifestyle few other Pierce County towns can match.

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

4. South Hill (Puyallup) — Hidden Greenbelts & Community Trails

While South Hill is suburban, many neighborhoods back up to:

• Forested greenbelts

• Quiet nature paths

• Community walking trails

• Scenic parks

It’s perfect for families, retirees, and anyone who wants suburban convenience with natural pockets tucked throughout the area.

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

5. Graham — Forest Access, Larger Lots & Quiet Nature Walks

Graham is ideal for:

• Wooded surroundings

• Quiet streets

• Larger lots with natural privacy

• Peaceful outdoor living

Many buyers love Graham because you can step outside and instantly feel surrounded by Washington’s natural beauty.

Learn more about the area:
Living in Spanaway & Graham, WA (2025 Guide)
 

6. Spanaway (Rural & Greenbelt Pockets) — Hidden Trail Access & Forest Feel

Spanaway offers more nature access than many expect, especially in the rural outskirts near:

• Elk Plain

• Roy border

• Graham-adjacent areas

You’ll find:

• Tree-lined trails

• Forest surroundings

• Large yards backing up to nature

• Quiet walking streets

For a full Spanaway & Graham lifestyle overview:
Living in Spanaway & Graham (2025 Guide)

7. DuPont — Walkable Trails & Parks in a Peaceful Setting

DuPont is one of the most walkable cities near JBLM and offers:

• Forest trails

• Flat, easy walking routes

• Sidewalk-lined neighborhoods

• Multiple parks and green spaces

For active seniors, military families, and anyone who values movement, DuPont is one of the best options near base.

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

8. Steilacoom — Waterfront Parks & Forest Trails

Steilacoom offers:

• Beautiful forested areas

• Quiet walking paths

• Parks with scenic overlooks

• A peaceful, small-town feel

If your goal is serenity + nature access, Steilacoom delivers.

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

9. Lakewood (Certain Pockets) — Parks, Lakes & Easy Walkability

Lakewood has many neighborhoods surrounding:

• American Lake

• Lake Steilacoom

• Gravelly Lake

And while this guide focuses on non-water views, the surrounding parks, trails, and tree-lined streets make these neighborhoods excellent for daily walks.

Learn more here:
Living in Lakewood, WA (2025 Guide)
 

10. Which Nature-Focused Neighborhood Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose:

Best Community Trail Systems:

Tehaleh (Bonney Lake) • DuPont • Orting

Best Rural Nature Access:

Eatonville • Graham • Spanaway outskirts

Best Suburban + Nature Mix:

South Hill • Bonney Lake foothills • Lakewood pockets

Best Views + Trails:

Orting valley • Buckley foothills • Tehaleh

If you want to explore Washington living more broadly, here’s a useful guide:
Where to Live When You're Moving to Washington for Work
 

Final Thoughts: Pierce County Is a Haven for Outdoor Lovers

Whether you’re dreaming of forest trails, walkable parks, mountain views, or peaceful greenbelt access, Pierce County has a neighborhood that fits beautifully. You don’t need to live far out to enjoy nature — you just need to know the right pockets.

If you’re searching for a home that keeps you connected to nature, I’d love to help you find the Pierce County neighborhood that feels like the perfect match for your lifestyle.

Whenever you’re ready, we can explore these areas together and build a plan around what outdoor living looks like for you.

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