Get Outdoors Near Joint Base Lewis-McChord

Get Outdoors Near Joint Base Lewis-McChord

If you're stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, you've found yourself in an outdoor lover's paradise! JBLM is one of the most popular duty stations in the military, and part of that reason is all the opportunities to get outside.

Whether you're setting out to a nearby destination or planning a day trip to explore the Pacific Northwest area, take a look at a few ideas for your next outdoor adventure.

Family-Friendly Outings Near Joint Base Lewis-McChord

Point Defiance Park

Host to the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, Point Defiance Park also offers miles of trails, lake access, and boat rentals.

Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

The Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is a pit spot for many species of migratory birds. On its nature trails, you can spy 200 different bird species, along with otters, mink, beavers, deer, and Pacific Tree Frogs.

Wildwood Park

You'll find a playground, trails, a historic reservoir and more in the 80 acres of beautiful landscape of Wildwood Park.

Learn more about these destinations and many others in our post 11 Military Family-Friendly Outings Near Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

JBLM Cascade Mountains Image from Canva

Explore the PNW With JBLM's Outdoor Rec Center

JBLM's MWR makes it easy to take advantage of all the Puget Sound area offers. If you're interested in any of the following activities and more, check out the JBLM Outdoor Rec calendar for more info and to register.

Hiking

Explore Wallace Falls, the Green River, and other destinations in the Cascades with guided hikes. Transportation, parking fees, and trip leader support are included! Explore beautiful forests, waterfalls, and mountains.

Rock Climbing

JBLM's Outdoor Rec offers a comprehensive introduction to top rope climbing. They provide instruction, equipment, and a rock-climbing wall.

Mountain Biking

The trails of Swan Creek make an ideal location to learn more about mountain biking. You'll get a full day of learning, whether you're a beginner or want to practice more advanced maneuvers.

You'll find so many reasons to get outside while you're stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord!

Get even more ideas:

Moving to Joint Base Lewis-McChord? Download our FREE guide to the area!

Author

Jen McDonald

Jen McDonald is the Content Editor for MilitaryByOwner Advertising, an award-winning author, speaker, and longtime advocate for military spouses. With over 30 years as a military spouse, Jen created her own path, raised four kids, supported her husband's Air Force career, and navigated the challenges of military life. Now, she shares her insights and encouragement with fellow military families through writing, podcasting, and public speaking. Jen is the author of You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse, and Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories, books offering support to military families. Her nonfiction writing has earned multiple awards, including a Gold Medal from the Military Writers Society of America and a Silver Award from Foreword INDIES. Now settled in Texas, Jen is working on her debut cozy mystery novel and reveling in the joys of grandparenting. She’s learned to write in the margins of life, tapping away at her laptop during early mornings or kids' sports practices. Connect with Jen at her site, Jen McDonald and Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.