Jim Patterson

View From Happy Lake Ridge

Description
Trail Conditions
Camping
Special Concerns
Safety
Map

Notices

• Access to the Boulder Creek Road and the Boulder Creek and Happy Lake Ridge Trailheads is closed due to restoration work. See Trail Conditions for more information.
• Obtain your Wilderness Camping Permit at the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles, year round.

Description

Ecosystem type: Montane forest, subalpine meadow, subalpine forest
Trail tread types: Primitive
General elevation trend: Moderate to steep  
Unique features: River
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 9.5 miles
Elevation change: 1300 ft. to 5409 ft.
Best Season: July 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 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: Much of the Happy Lake Ridge trail lacks water sources, so fill up at Happy Lake or other nearby streams when possible. Always boil, filter or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent Giardia.
Stock: Allowed, 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. 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.