On clear days, the Anderson Landing viewpoints offer incredible views of the water and mountains
This small park in Silverdale is densely wooded and has beautiful overlooks and beach access. Unfortunately, neither the steep trails to the beach nor the drop to get onto the beach is senior dog friendly. However, you can still hike the upper trails and access the overlooks. From the parking area off Warren Road, take the gravel road into the park and then veer onto the trail to your left.
Along the way you’ll come across two horseshoe loops on the right side of the trail that are great for adding a little mileage. They are a bit more challenging than the flat ground of the main path, but most senior dogs should be able to hike them. Once you get on a loop, the trail will eventually spit you back out onto the main path, where you’ll take a right to continue towards the overlook.
The first overlook is located on a spur off the main trail on your left. To stop at the second overlook, continue on the main trail and take the second spur on your left. To return to your vehicle, you can either go back the way you came or continue on the main path. If you continue going in the same direction, when you come to an intersection, go right (going left would take you down a steep path to the beach). At the next intersection, go left to get back onto the trail on which you started. Feel free to do those loops again if you want extra mileage, or continue straight if you’re ready to head home.
On the beach, it’s easy to feel transported to another world as you listen to the lapping waves and observe the grace of a nearby Great Blue Heron with the snowcapped mountains in the background
If you and your pup want to attempt the hike to the beach (it is amazing!), you can get there two ways: 1) Go straight on the gravel road (don’t turn left as suggested above), which turns into a steep, narrow trail and follows alongside Anderson Creek. When you reach an intersection, take the trail on the right to access the beach. This is the more difficult of the two routes because one section is particularly steep and narrow.
Or 2) Go the way I suggested above (to the overlooks), but after the second overlook, you’ll turn left to go downhill. When you reach the next intersection, turn left to take the trail to the beach. Once you get to the end of the trail, you’ll need to jump a few feet down to get to the beach, or you can clamber down the roots. Note that this final section where the trail and beach meets changes over time as winter storms and high tides cause natural erosion and shifting.
When the tide is out, some sections of the beach have lots of sharp oysters so be careful of your pup’s sensitive paws
The beach is lovely at low tide, with the gorgeous mountains in the background. I used to love coming here when my dogs were younger. It should be noted that this is a mud beach (not sand or rock) and it can act a bit like quick sand. Walking too far out is an easy way to lose your shoes!
You’ll find only a handful of parking spaces, so you might want to consider going during the week.
Trail Map
Read about other hikes for senior dogs in Western Washington!
Hiking with Senior Dogs in Western Washington
