A moderate hike with views of the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and Seattle.
The Gold Creek Trail is one of several trails in the Green Mountain region. Although the trail is intertwined with others, it is almost impossible to start down the wrong path. The trail is well-marked and well-maintained, making this an excellent option for the family.
The trail begins at the end of the parking lot and eventually parallels the Gold Creek. Be sure to explore the waterfalls located about a quarter mile before the bridge that crosses over the Gold Creek. The waterfalls are pretty hard to miss, because you will probably hear them before you see them.
The hike to the top is not technical, so the average hiker will have no difficulty walking this trail all the way to the Green Mountain Vista. At the end of the Gold Creek Trail, the Green Mountain Vista Trail will take you the rest of the way to the top. From the top, you can see out over the Kitsap Peninsula to Seattle on a clear day.
Please note that in order to park in the lot near the trailhead you will need a Discovery Pass. The pass can be purchased anywhere that sells hunting or fishing licenses. There is a gas station a few miles up the road past the parking lot that sells them.