This area is blessed by the presence of the Green River, which serpentines its way for some 65 miles – from its mountainous origin to its ultimate destination in Seattle’s bustling Elliott Bay.

Along the way, the river serves as a source of drinking water for Tacoma (courtesy of Howard Hanson Dam) and meanders through the Auburn/Kent Valley before eventually becoming the Duwamish River and emptying into salt water.

For hikers, the Green provides a variety of opportunities. On the upstream end is Kanaskat-Palmer State Park that offers a riverside trail with frequent, gentle spots for kids, dogs and adults to splash about. The pathway heads away from the river and becomes a loop trail that winds up close to campers and traffic.

Downstream is Flaming Geyser, another jewel in the state park

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