Flaming Geyser State Park

in Trail of the Week — by — March 30, 2012

Flaming Geyser State Park holds a reputation as one of the must-see hiking curiosities in the Northwest. Located along the stunning banks of the Green River, Flaming Geyser State Park is adorned with lush cedars and maples, offering a spectacular retreat into serenity. This flat, 2.5-mile loop hike is a great choice for family hikers, and those simply interested in exploring one of the area’s most curious natural attractions. Visitors who are eager to escape avalanche danger in the mountain passes, and those seeking a challenge-free outing can enjoy this low-elevation hike. After a two-year closure the park is finally reopened to Northwest adventurers.

Flaming Geyser ©Jenni Denekas

Hikers can start off from the trailhead and take an immediate right towards an informational kiosk. Here hikers can view the infamous Flaming Geyser and learn more about the history of the area. The flame is still the result of a natural gas vent that was set afire during the early twentieth century mining. While the geyser had notoriously shot an eight-foot flame into the air, it now hovers just six to eight inches above the ground. Hikers can follow the trail past the flaming geyser, following Cristy Creek as it trickles down through a scenic ravine. Follow the trail to view the Sulphur Geyser, and the Bubbling Geyser, which adorn the trickling creek. Follow the trail as it loops back down the ravine to reach the main trail.

Hikers who are looking for more adventure can take a right to continue down the Canyon Trail, which hugs the river’s cliffs, eventually descending to the parallel the shoreline. Hikers who visit Flaming Geyser State Park when the river isn’t in flood stage can follow the path to view an allegedly spectacular canyon (those who visit Flaming Geyser State Park after a heavy rainfall can find the last .3 miles flooded). Along the way, history enthusiasts can view remnants of the area’s heavy coal mining activity. Those who still have energy left can hike around the park’s scenic perimeter trail or explore the Green River’s banks.

©Jenni Denekas

Distance: 2.5 miles

Variety: Out and Back

Elevation Gain/Loss: 300 Feet

Passes/Permits Required: Discover Pass

Directions: From State Route 18 take the Auburn-Black Diamond Road exit. Take a right at the bottom of the ramp, followed by an immediate right to turn onto SE Green Valley Road. Follow the road 7 miles to cross the Green River. Enter the Flaming Geyser State Park and drive towards the picnic area.

©Jenni Denekas
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Melissa was born and raised in the Northwest and grew up hiking in the Cascades and exploring the wild beaches of the San Juan Islands. Her first backpacking trip was a 10 day trek across the Olympic Mountains, following the Quinault River. During college she spent four months abroad in New Zealand studying writing and backpacking throughout the North and South islands. An avid hiker and outdoorswoman, Melissa is inspired by her outdoor adventures, whether they are bouldering, backpacking, hiking, trail running, scrambling, or simply setting up her hammock in the sun. After graduating from the University of Puget Sound in May 2010 Melissa has begun a career as a freelance writer and juggles painting, poetry, and writing a novel in her spare time.

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