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Olympic National Park Sunset with Seastacks on Olympic Coast
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Olympic National Park
Boulder Lake Trail
 
 

Notices:

  • Periodic trail & road closures may occur in this area. See trail conditions for more information.
  • Obtain your Wilderness Camping Permit at the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles, year round.
  • Always call (360) 565-3131 to check road conditions prior to your trip.
 

Description:

Ecosystem type: Subalpine lake basin
Trail tread types: Maintained
General elevation trend: Moderate  
Unique features: Lake contains exotic brook trout. Fishing is allowed. Check regulations.
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.8 miles to the lake
Elevation change: 1700 ft. to 4350 ft.
Best Season: Usually snow free late June through late September

 

Camping:

Permits/Reservations: Obtain permits at the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles. No reservations necessary.
Food Storage Method: There is a bear wire at Boulder Lake. Bear canisters are required where food cannot be hung at least 12 feet high and 10 ft. out from the nearest tree trunk.
Campsites: Boulder Lake. Please camp on bare ground only not on vegetation.
Toilet Facilities:  There is a pit toilet at Boulder Lake. In other areas bury waste 6-8" 200 ft from water sources and campsites. Please pack out toilet paper.
Water Source: Boulder Lake, Boulder Creek, and nearby streams. Always boil, filter or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent Giardia.
Stock: Allowed day use only. Check stock regulations. 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 or on bare ground.
Campfires: To protect sensitive vegetation, campfires are not allowed at Boulder Lake and in other areas above 3,500 feet.
Respect Wildlife: To protect bears and other wildlife, all food, garbage and scented items must be secured from all wildlife 24 hours a day. Bear canisters are recommended in this area.

 

Safety:

  • Always carry the 10 Essentials: map, compass, flashlight, knife, matches, nylon cord, extra food and water, and raingear with warm clothes. 
  • Map & compass navigation skills may be necessary in places along this trail during winter and spring. Snow may cover higher reaches of this trail in any season, so know how to navigate without a trail for guidance.
  • Let someone know where and when you are taking your hike. Make emergency plans for them to follow if you do not return.
  • Watch the weather before and during your hike. Storms move quickly. Always check weather forecasts before your trip and watch the weather when you are out there.
 

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dam with water flowing

Did You Know?
Removal of two dams on the Elwha River is the second largest ecosystem restoration project in the National Park System.

Last Updated: December 13, 2010 at 09:57 MST