By Ali Elsberry
Of the many benefits of homeschooling our family, one of our favorites is hopping into the car and heading out to explore someplace new. Sometimes we get lucky and stumble upon these places while out and about, but other times I do a little research ahead of time and come up with a list of parks, museums, natural areas, or other points of interest that seem worthwhile; Flaming Geyser State Park is one such place I found on a map while scouting for things to do near Black Diamond one day.
Tucked between the forested hills surrounding the Auburn Valley and curled along the Green River, Flaming Geyser State Park boasts an array of attractions, including – just as the name suggests – a flaming geyser.
The 480-acre park shows off lush flora and fauna from the forest floor to the canopy, crystal-clear creek waters, delightful wildflowers in the spring and golden hues in the fall, as well as wetlands hosting many bird species, and vast open fields – all of this setting the scene for hiking, horseback riding, swimming, fishing kayaking and inner-tubing, bird-watching, and, of course, learning.
Upon entering the park, you will cross a cable-stayed bridge that carries you over the Green River, a section of which provides for good inner-tubing in warm weather. Just a little further in and to the northwest, you will find a large model airplane field where local RC enthusiasts are always eager to share knowledge and show off their skills. At the far end of the shared parking area is access to the river, with multiple spots for relaxing along the water’s edge, or taking a dip on a hot day.
Continuing further along, and passing through many large fields, leads you to the main area with multiple picnic tables and shelters, a playground, a trail along the river complete with interpretive trail signs about the salmon run, fishing holes, the most magnificent old-growth maple tree you have ever seen (and perfect for little climbers to explore). In this same area is a pond teeming with red-winged blackbirds (among many other avian and aquatic species), a ranger station, restrooms, and ample parking. Just beyond the eastern-most part of the parking lot is where you will find the path to the park’s namesake, the flaming geyser.
Exploratory coal miners in the early 1900s accidentally made the discovery by drilling a test hole 1,000 feet into the ground along the creek and hitting into a cavity containing methane and salt water, which ignited and shot over 20 feet into the air, a sight to behold for sure. The source of methane has greatly depleted over the years since its discovery, and when we first started visiting the park about 5 years ago, the flame rose only a few inches high, but upon our most recent trip it was not visible at all. A local who happened to be there at the same time as us said she never goes there without a lighter now, and she relit the flame for us, which was just a flicker, but still fun to witness.
Another trail from here leads you through a forested path that will eventually bring you to the second geyser, which bubbles up to the surface of the creek, and where you can still detect the smell of sulfur. Large fir trees with their massive exposed roots growing along the hillside seem to dwarf anyone standing near, and the peaceful surroundings encourage reflection.
The trails that weave throughout the park range from easy to moderate, and although only accounting for less than 4.5 miles in combined length, there is so much to see each step of the way that you’ll feel like you’ve explored much more.
At about a 50-minute drive from the Point Defiance ferry, this is a very enjoyable day trip that has something to offer everyone. I recommend making the trek mid-to-late morning to avoid traffic and ferry lines. A Discover Pass is required to enjoy the park, or you can purchase a day-pass at the kiosk right after entering if needed. Flaming Geyser State Park can be found at 23700 SE Flaming Geyser Rd, Auburn, WA 98092.
