FLAMING GEYSER STATE PARK
Flaming Geyser State Park is a 480-acre day-use park with more than three miles of freshwater shoreline on the Green River. The park's most unique feature is its geysers methane seeps. Park activities include whitewater rafting and model airplane flying. The Green River is popular for rafting and other summer activities. There is an area for remote-control model-airplane flying.
The town of Black Diamond and the surrounding region, including the park, is one of the main coal mining areas in Washington. The park's underlying coal seams provide the gas for the Flaming Geyser and the Bubbling Geyser.
Flaming Geyser State Park has existed on this location since the 1920's. Operated as a private park into the 1960's, it fell into bankrupcy. State Parks rescued it from conversion to home development and has operated it as a park ever since.
A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to Washington state parks for day use. For more information about the Discover Pass and exemptions, please visit the
Discover Pass web page.
The park has no camping.
Anglers can enjoy freshwater fishing in the Green River. Species include steelhead, salmon and trout. A valid license is required.
Flaming Geyser State Park is located near Auburn, Bonney Lake and Enumclaw
The park provides six kitchen shelters without electricity, plus 56 sheltered and 172 unsheltered picnic tables. Kitchen shelters are reservable by calling (888) CAMPOUT or (888) 226-7688.
1. Flaming Geyser Main Trail: This is a 3-mile round trip trail that takes you to the park's main attractions, including the "Flaming Geyser" and Bubbling Geyser.
2. River Trail: A scenic route along Green River with opportunities for fishing or picnicking by its banks; it stretches about two miles long.
3. Wetland Loop Trail: An easy half mile loop through wetlands offering bird-watching opportunities and views of local flora and fauna.
4. The Plateau Cut:off trail: It's an uphill climb but offers stunning panoramic views from atop the plateau overlooking surrounding landscapes.
5. Whispering Firs Loop: A peaceful one:mile hike under towering fir trees perfect for families looking for a short walk in nature.
6. The Old Railroad Grade: Follows old railroad tracks providing hikers with historical context as well as beautiful scenery over approximately three miles distance.
7. Balsamroot Trails: Named after wildflowers found here during springtime, this moderate difficulty level hiking path spans around four miles across diverse terrains.
8. Gorge Overlook Pathway: Short yet steep pathway leading towards breathtaking overlook points showcasing river gorges below.
9. Christmas Tree Farm Route: Takes visitors past former Christmas tree farm sites within Park boundaries spanning roughly five kilometers length:wise.
10. Pheasant Run trails: Ideal spot to observe pheasants while enjoying serene forested surroundings on these interconnected pathways covering nearly six acres area.
Birdwatchers can spot species like the American Dipper, Belted Kingfisher and Bald Eagle. The park is home to various waterfowl such as Mallards, Canada Geese and Wood Ducks. Songbirds including Black-capped Chickadees, Red-winged Blackbirds are common too. Raptors like Osprey or Cooper's Hawks may also be seen soaring above.
Flaming Geyser and river habitat interpretive walks lead by a park ranger are usually available with one week's advance request for groups of ten to 20 people. There is a self-guided, ADA accessible Salmon Interpretive Trail.
Located between Auburn, Wash., and Black Diamond, Wash., on the state's western side in King County.
From SR 18:Take the Auburn-Black Diamond Rd. exit. Travel east on Auburn -Black Diamond Rd. approximately 1/8 mile to Green Valley Rd. Turn right (southeast) onto Green Valley Rd. Continue on Green Valley Rd. about nine miles to park entrance. Turn right into park.