Tolt-MacDonald Park
Puget Sound and IslandsBest Year-round
A sprawling riverside park at the confluence of the Snoqualmie and Tolt rivers, connected by a 500-foot suspension bridge to miles of forested trails.
About This Trail
Tolt-MacDonald Park spreads across 574 acres where the Tolt River meets the Snoqualmie River near Carnation. The 12-mile trail network winds through second-growth forest, along riverbanks, and over a dramatic suspension footbridge that sways above the Snoqualmie River. The bridge leads to a quieter backcountry section with rolling forested trails on the far bank.
The terrain stays gentle throughout, with most elevation gain concentrated on short hill sections in the backcountry loop. River-level trails follow the Snoqualmie and offer seasonal wildlife viewing: spawning salmon in fall, bald eagles and osprey year-round, and spring wildflowers along the bottomlands. The park connects to the 27-mile Snoqualmie Valley Trail for extended out-and-back rides or walks.
Facilities include yurts, campsites, picnic shelters, and a restored barn. The park sees regular trail maintenance from WTA volunteer crews keeping the paths in solid condition through wet winter months. Mud is common on lower trails after rain, but the forested canopy keeps conditions manageable.
Forecast
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“If you go east, and go under the bridge, you can get to Remlinger Farns.”
Last report: May 22, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Muddy trail sections after rain, especially near the river
- Seasonal flooding can close low-lying trails near the confluence
Getting There
Free parking at the main park entrance off NE 40th Street in Carnation. Large lot with restroom facilities at the trailhead. Dogs allowed on leash throughout the park.
From I-5, take Highway 520 east, exit onto WA-202/Redmond Way, follow 202 east through Redmond for 7.7 miles, turn left onto NE Tolt Hill Road (becomes Tolt Ave), then left onto NE 40th Street to the park entrance. The suspension bridge at the river crossing opens access to the backcountry trail network on the far side.
No time restrictions. The park works well as a morning walk, afternoon picnic destination, or overnight camping trip. Fall mornings bring river fog that burns off by midday.
Recent Reports
I went on two short trails that parallel the river, both are in good condition. If you go east, and go under the bridge, you can get to Remlinger Farns.
I went on two short trails that parallel the river, both are in good condition. If you go east, and go under the bridge, you can get to Remlinger Farns.
Joined a WTA work party on April fools day! My projects on this hitch was to assist with creating drains and taking down a berm on the side of a section of trail that could impede water drainage.
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