What is the status of fall color in the Arboretum?

Some trees are at or near their peak fall color, while for others, it is just beginning to show, depending on the species as of [October 12](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-17.205710908662). The Japanese maples are not yet at full peak but offer plenty of color and berries. There are also some fall blooming plants present as of [October 6](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-06.172600779412).

Are there any trail closures or detours I should be aware of?

Yes, the Foster Island boardwalk is currently closed for construction and requires a detour as of [October 4](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-05.092831501587). Other trails are reported to be in good condition and snow-free.

What are the parking and restroom facilities like?

Parking at the arboretum is limited and fills up quickly on nice days. Full restrooms are available in the main building when it is open, and also at the Graham Visitors Center.

What kind of wildlife has been observed recently?

Wildlife sightings have been limited to some forest birds and squirrels. One report from [October 4](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-05.092831501587) specifically mentions a playful Douglas squirrel that interacted with the observer.

Washington Park Arboretum

Puget Sound and Islands

updated 4 weeks ago

The Washington Park Arboretum is currently experiencing varied fall colors, with some trees nearing their peak and others just beginning to show their autumn hues as of October 12. The Japanese maples are not quite at full peak but offer plenty of color, along with berries and fall blooming plants as of October 6. Most flowers have passed, and the spectacular fall color is still several weeks away according to a report from October 4, creating a calm atmosphere. The trails are in good condition, snow-free, and accessible by roads suitable for all vehicles, with no reported bugs as of October 12. Restrooms are available at the Graham Visitors Center. Note that the Foster Island boardwalk is closed for construction, requiring a detour, and parking at the arboretum is limited and fills quickly on pleasant days.

Generated from 37 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Washington Park Arboretum

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 4 weeks ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

No trip reports on this trail in 4 weeks, so everything below is at least that old.

Some trees are at or near their peak fall color, while for others, it is just beginning to show, depending on the species as of October 12. The Japanese maples are not yet at full peak but offer plenty of color and berries. There are also some fall blooming plants present as of October 6.