Once upon a time, in the 1880s, the town of Franklin, Washington was established in east King County. And while its limited run was full of tragedy before it became one of the most infamous ghost towns in Washington around 1919, for a time, it was a successful coal mining town. And you can still explore it if you’re willing to enjoy a nice two-mile hike along the Franklin ghost town trail.

The Franklin Ghost Town Trail is located near Black Diamond, in the Green River Gorge Conservation Area.
Phillip Proulx / alltrails.com
The trail is great for all skill levels, and it's a nice, easy walk.
To reach the town of Franklin, Washington, you'll simply follow a narrow footpath along the Green River ...
Corey Laughlin / alltrails.com
... and before you know it, you'll start to see remnants of one of the most infamous ghost towns in Washington.
Bayes Bloomington / alltrails.com
It begins with a walk to a coal cart and sealed mine shaft.

Related Stories

This Dramatic Lookout Point In Washington Is An Unforgettable Adventure

This Dramatic Lookout Point In Washington Is An Unforgettable Adventure

 The Washington State Trailhead Where You Can Hike Across Wooden Bridges Is A Grand Adventure

The Washington State Trailhead Where You Can Hike Across Wooden Bridges Is A Grand Adventure

 These 5 Trails In Washington Will Lead You To Extraordinary Ruins

These 5 Trails In Washington Will Lead You To Extraordinary Ruins
Franklin was a peaceful town for a few years, although it wasn't long before tensions occurred.
Phillip Proulx / alltrails.com
A mining strike prompted labor recruiters to invite African Americans to town from Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee with offers of good-paying jobs and free transportation. This upset the local miners who were on strike, and tensions grew until a riot broke out. Two people died, and the National Guard had to restore order.
Then, in 1894, tragedy struck when 37 miners suffocated due to a fire in the mine. Even worse, it appeared that the fire had been intentionally started.
Phillip Proulx / alltrails.com
At the time, it was one of the worst mining disasters in the country.
The mine continued to operate for nearly 25 years after the incident, but the town was never the same. And by 1919, coal mining in the area had all but ceased.
adi Stearns / alltrails.com
Franklin quickly became a ghost town. But you can still see some remnants of it, including a cemetery.
If you're a nature-loving history buff, check out this short, sweet hike, which is easily one of the most unique trails in Washington.
Bayes Bloomington / alltrails.com
It has a fascinating reward.

Well, what do you think? Have any questions about this unique hike in Washington? For more information on the Franklin ghost town trail, check out the Washington Trails Association website.

So, did you know about Franklin, Washington? What about the Franklin ghost town trail? Ever trekked along its path? If so, what did you think of this hidden ghost town? Know of any other ghost towns in Washington? Whatever it is, tell us!

The Franklin ghost town trail is just one of the unique hikes in Washington. There are several others. Not so sure? Just check out the Iron Goat Trail, which just might be the creepiest hike in Washington.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Franklin Ghost Town Trail

Daniella DiRienzo | November 30, 2022

Are there any other unique trails in Washington?

The Franklin ghost town trail is just one of the unique trails in Washington. There are several others, including:

 

What are some other ghost towns in Washington?

Aside from Franklin, there are several other ghost towns in Washington. Here are a few of the ghost towns in Washington:

 

Are there any more abandoned places in Washington?

Like any other state, there are several abandoned places in Washington, including:

Related Articles

Explore Washington

Featured Addresses
Franklin, WA 98010, USA