Griff Creek Trail

Sparse trees in the northeastern rainshadow of Olympic National Park

Jim Patterson

Description
Trail Conditions
Camping
Special Concerns
Safety
Map

Notices

• Obtain your Wilderness Camping Permit at the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles, year round.

 

Description

Ecosystem type: Montane forest
Trail tread types: maintained for foot traffic
General elevation trend: Steep
Unique features: Montane forest, views of Elwha River and surrounding peaks
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.8 miles
Elevation change: 400 ft. to 3500 ft.
Best Season: Low Elevations: year round. High Elevations: late June through 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 in the high country where food cannot be hung at least 12 feet high and 10 ft. out from the nearest tree trunk.
Campsites: Anywhere off of vegetation and 200 feet from water sources.
Toilet Facilities: none; bury waste 6-8" 200 ft from water sources and campsites. Please pack out toilet paper.
Water Source: Griff Creek and nearby streams. Always boil, filter or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent Giardia.
Stock: Prohibited. 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. 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. 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.

 

Trail Conditions