Julia's Gulch

Julia's Gulch is a natural area located in Northeast Tacoma, Washington. The steep forested slopes of Julia's Gulch create a buffer between the industrial Tideflats and residential neighborhoods in the area. This passive open space comprises part of the City of Tacoma's Open Space Program, which is intended to conserve, activate, and manage open space and urban forest lands.

The gulch features trails for hiking and nature observation. The main trail is the Upper Loop Trail, which is approximately 0.75 miles long. The trailhead for Julia's Gulch is located at Viewpoint Park on Norpoint Way, where there is parking available for about a dozen cars.

Julia's Gulch is part of the City of Tacoma's efforts to maintain and restore natural areas. The site has been the focus of habitat restoration work, with approximately 1.43 acres of the site having been restored in recent years by the Friends of Julia's Gulch and the Washington Conservation Corps crew. These restoration efforts aim to increase vegetation diversity, tree canopy cover, and overall absorption, which contributes to stormwater management and ecological benefits.

Visitors to Julia's Gulch can expect a natural, forested environment with opportunities for hiking and observing local flora and fauna. The park provides a unique opportunity to experience nature within an urban setting, offering a contrast to the nearby industrial and residential areas.