Outbound Collective logo

Far County Falls via Licorice Fern Trail

Renton, Washington

4.2/5
based on 6 reviews

Details

Distance

4.25 miles

Elevation Gain

801 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Nick A.

The proximity of Far County Falls via Licorice Fern Trail to Seattle combined with the low volume of people who come to it makes for a perfect, zen-filled escape, a tranquil workout, or a romantic walk in the woods. 

From Seattle, take the I-90 E to exit 15. Make a right on 17th Ave. This street will later become Renton/Issaquah Rd. Drive about four miles then turn right on to May Valley Rd. Make a sharp right onto SE 112th St. This street will soon turn into 169th Ave SE as it turns left. The trailhead is right after that turn. Find easy parking along 169th and locate the little hiker sign. 

This is a quiet trail for those looking for a moderate two to three hour hike, or a solid trail run. The first section is quiet, narrow, and solitary, while the second section is wider, airy and with slightly more traffic, both human and animal.

The trail is split into two sections by a road--SE Licorice Way. The first section descends then gains elevation quickly. After about 0.8 miles, you will come to a paved road. This is Licorice Way. Note that as you cross Licorice Way towards the wooden posts, you will see a sign with an arrow to the left. Continue along the gravel trail and you will find another sign on the ground that will lead you back into the woods.

Continue along this path, keeping mind that there is private property to the right. The trail will branch after about 0.2 miles, keep left. The trail ends on the "Indian Trail" in a T intersection with a sign. Turn left, down a trail you can take to see the Far Country Lookout one quarter mile away, signed for the S1 Far Country Trail. Go uphill, and follow the sign to the shortcut.

On your way back, turn right onto the Indian Trail and continue for about 0.2 miles to visit the Far Country Falls. The sign can be found on the left.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Fitness
Photography
Running
Hiking
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Romantic

Far County Falls via Licorice Fern Trail Reviews

Beautiful serene trail

Trail has many different options and can be hiked multiple times. Great for varying fitness levels.

This is a nice trail and easy to get to parking is easily messed as it is on the side of the road. There are signs clearly marked you would be parking on the side of the road you don't need a Northwest forest pass. It's situated in the middle of a nice neighborhood. As it is king county maintained. Pretty easy trail short switchbacks there is a creepy old house that looks abandoned but you don't really go buy it you just see it at the beginning of the trail. Easy quick day hike No horses the sign said I believe dogs are ok

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Anti-Aircraft Peak Loop

Coal Creek Falls via Red Town Trailhead

Coal Creek Trail

Poo Poo Point

West Tiger #3 (Cable Line Trail)

Grand Ridge Trail