NPS Jim Patterson

View from Dodger Point

Description
Trail Conditions
Camping
Special Concerns
Safety
Wilderness Map

Notices

• Obtain your Wilderness Camping Permit at the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles, year round.
• River Crossing required to access trail from Elwha River Trail at Remann's Cabin. May be difficult or impossible during fall, winter or spring due to high water. 

Description

Ecosystem type: Montane forest, subalpine meadow
Trail tread types: Primitive
General elevation trend: Steep  
Unique features: River, high country
Level of difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 5.3 miles
Elevation change: 1451 ft. to 5700 ft.
Best Season: Early July through mid-October

Camping

Permits/Reservations: Obtain permits at the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles. No reservations necessary.
Food Storage Method: Bear canisters are required at Dodger Point due to the lack of good trees for hanging food. Food, garbage and scented items must be hung at least 12 feet high and 10 ft. out from the nearest tree trunk or stored in bear canisters.
Campsites: Always camp on bare ground and not on vegetation in the high country and at least 200 feet from water sources.
Toilet Facilities:  none; bury waste 6-8" 200 ft from water sources and campsites. Please pack out toilet paper. Urinate on rocks or the trail to prevent deer and mountain goats from pulling up fragile plants to get at salt in urine.
Water Source: Elwha River, springs near Dodger Point. Always boil, filter or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent Giardia.
Stock: Allowed but not recommended, 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 above 3,500 feet. Leave no trace of your fire ring. Burn dead and down wood only.
Respect Wildlife: To protect bears and other wildlife, all food, garbage and scented items must be secured from all wildlife 24 hours a day.

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. 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. Whiteouts are sudden. Read the weather forecasts, but remember to read the weather in front of your face.