We started are hike from the south lower parking lot. This parking area has no toilets or trail map of the park. First up was the Steamshovel Trail named for the abandoned steam shovel a short hike from the parking lot. This is very doable for young children and would make for a wonderful family outing. The trail is in good condition.
We continued up to Quarry Loop and Pipeline 4 with a quick stop at Crossroads Pond. Then it was on to Midway 3 with a left at Rock Candy Bypass and up to the lookout. The view from here is amazing. On this sunny morining Mount Rainier and the Olympics were out. A few wildflowers are blooming in this area. The trails are in good condition but you do need to watch for exposed roots and rocks in a few sections. My husband was stung by Nettles coming down from the Lookout.
Took Rock Candy Bypass to Pipeline 3 with a left onto Temple Pond Connector Trail. The lake beautiful, very peaceful. The trail to the lake is in good condition at this time. There are some sections that looked like they would be a muddy mess when wet. We did a loop off of the connector trail. This seemed to be an older trail system that isn't well maintained and has no signage. Nettles could be a problem if wearing shorts.
We ended our hike with Pipeline 3,4,and 5 and the Entrance Road. This park offers many trail options from both parking locations. It is worth the time it takes to download and look at the map before going. The link is at the bottom of the hike description under Pro Tip.
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