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Ruston Way & Waterfront


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Ruston Way & Waterfront

The scenic Ruston Waterfront along Puget Sound is a 3.2-mile path of paved trail and sidewalks. From the south, it passes through Chinese Reconciliation, Jack Hyde, Old Town Dock, Dickman Mill, Les Davis Pier, Judge Jack Tanner Park, and Cumming Parks. It ends to the north in Dune Penninsula at Point Defiance Park. It is an oppotunity for a winter conditioner while enjoying the magnificent scenery, expansive views of Puget Sound, and historical artifacts along the waterfront. Enjoy a hot lunch at one of the many eateries along the way and in Old Town Tacoma. Some of these parks are good launch points for a sea kayak trip along the waterfront.

getting there

driving

From I-705 N in Tacoma, take Schuster Parkway exit and follow Schuster Parkway for 1.4 miles. Bear left at the N 30th St exit onto Ruston Way. Continue ~0.5 mile and find parking on Ruston Way, at Dickman Mill Park, Cummings Park, Dune Peninsula at Point Defiance Park, or in Old Town Tacoma.

transit

Pierce Transit Lines 10, 11, 13, and 15 (a seasonal trolley).

Information for Leaders

scheduling

Please use our Point Defiance Park route/place for trips to Dune Peninsula  only or trips that visit both Dune Peninsula and Point Defiance Park.

  • Suitable Activities: Sea Kayaking, Trail Running, Urban Walking, Urban Adventure
  • Seasons: Year-round
  • Weather: View weather forecast
  • Difficulty: *Varies*
  • Length: 6.4 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 100 ft
  • 100 ft
  • Land Manager: Metro Parks Tacoma
  • Parking Permit Required: None
  • Recommended Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
  • see Land Manager
Activities
Trip Reports
Titles

This is a list of titles that represent the variations of trips you can take at this route/place. This includes side trips, extensions and peak combinations. Not seeing a title that fits your trip? Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.

  • Ruston Waterfront
  • Ruston Waterfront Trail
  • Dune Peninsula to Ruston Waterfront
  • Cummings Park
  • Judge Jack Tanner Park
  • Dickman Mill Park
  • Jack Hyde Park
  • Chinese Reconciliation Park
Resources

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