Mount Rainier National Park, which celebrated its centennial in 1999, has a perpetual snowpack and 26 glaciers. Hiking, camping, nature trails, other natural wonders and overnight lodging are available. Our state parks - Cutt's Island, Dash Point, Eagle Island, Federation Forest, Kopachuck and Penrose Point - offer a wide range facilities and, with the exception of Federation Forest, all are located on salt water.
Pierce County Parks and Recreation maintains over 3,000 acres at over 40 park sites including: two recreation centers, athletic complexes, skateboard park, five boat launch sites, two golf courses, trails, a rock climbing facility, an equestrian area, and natural areas.
Pierce County Parks and Recreation also manages the location for the Pierce County Fair, a salt water fishing pier, two disc golf courses, and a bicycle/motorcross facility. Additionally, a large number of passive open space sites are managed through our Pierce County's Conservation Futures system.
The department presents the Fantasy Lights at Spanaway Park animated lights display each year during the holidays.
The Tacoma Dome is the largest wooden domed arena in the world. Located on Interstate 5, it is home to concerts, ice shows, sports events and trade shows. Cheney Stadium, located near the Highway 16 Center Street and 19th Street exits, is home to the Tacoma Rainiers Class AAA baseball team.
Northwest Trek, located on Washington 161 between Puyallup and Eatonville, affords an opportunity to view and study our Northwest animals in their natural state. Trails and tram tours are available in this 600-acre wildlife preserve.
Point Defiance Park, which covers 698 acres, combines the best of Northwest scenic beauty with a formal rose garden, Japanese garden, rhododendron garden, boat house and a nationally acclaimed zoo and aquarium. The park is located on Puget Sound and overlooks the Narrows Bridge to the west and Vashon Island to the north. It is operated by the Metro Parks District and is second in size to New York City's Central Park.
