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Olympic National ParkElwha River Trail
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Olympic National Park
Boulder Creek Trail
 

General Location: 8 miles south of Lake Sutherland.

Trailhead: Boulder Creek trailhead

Notices:

  • If you are heading over Appleton Pass into the Sol Duc area, all food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park approved bear canisters.
  • The water quality of the hot springs is not monitored and may contain high levels of fecal coliform bacteria. Bathe at your own risk. Nudity is common.
 
Description:

Ecosystem type: Montane forest 
Trail tread types: Well maintained 
General elevation trend: Flat
River crossings: None - a few small streams 
Unique features: Natural Hot Springs.
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2.5 miles to hot springs
Elevation change: 200 feet elevation gain.
Best Season: All year - road can be closed before trailhead in winter. Check road conditions (360) 565-3131

 
 

Camping:

Permits/Reservations: Obtain permits at WIC in Port Angeles. No reservations necessary.
Food Storage Method: A community bear wire is available at Boulder Creek Campground.
Campsites: Boulder Creek Campground
Toilet Facilities: Pit toilets
Water Source: Boulder Creek (get water above confluence of hot spring water and creek) - Always boil, filter or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent getting Giardia.
Stock: Allowed. See Stock Use.

 

Special Concerns:

Leave No Trace: Leave No Trace of your stay to protect vegetation and prevent further camping regulations. Camp in established sites.
Campfires: To protect sensitive vegetation, campfires are allowed below 3,500 feet. 
Respect Wildlife: To protect raccoons, bears and other wildlife, all food, garbage and scented items must be secured from all wildlife 24 hours a day.

 

Safety:

  • Bathe at your own risk.
  • Springs are not monitored or maintained and may contain high levels of fecal coliform bacteria.
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marmot  

Did You Know?
Although related to other marmots and groundhogs of North America, the Olympic marmot is unique. An endemic species, it is found only in the Olympic Mountains. Visitors to the high country of Olympic National Park may be lucky enough to encounter a marmot sunning itself near its burrow.

Last Updated: April 14, 2009 at 14:05 EST