Lake Constance Route

Lake Constance

Notices
Description
Trail Conditions
Camping Information
Special Concerns
Safety
Map

Notices:

• The Dosewallips Road is washed out 3 miles from the Lake Constance Trailhead.
• Camping permits are limited between May 1 and September 30th. Call [phone] for permits and reservations.
• Always call [phone] for the latest road conditions.

 

Description

Ecosystem type: Montane forest, subalpine lake basin  
Trail tread types: little or no maintenance, climbers route
General elevation trend: very steep
River crossings: None
Unique features: Lake Constance, Avalanche Canyon
Level of difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 5.0 miles from Dose Road washout
Elevation change: Trail goes from 1,450 feet to 4,800 feet (road is washed out at about 700 ft.)
Best Season: Late June or early July through September

 

Camping Information

Permits/Reservations: Camping is limited between May 1 and September 30. Obtain permits by phone at the WIC in Port Angeles or in person at Staircase Ranger Station during business hours. 50% of campsites can be reserved, no more than 30 days in advance. Contact the WIC at [phone].

Food Storage Method: Community bear wires are available at Lake Constance. Bear canisters are required in areas where hanging food 12 feet high and 10 feet out from the nearest tree trunk is not possible due to lack of good trees for hanging food.

Campsite Locations: Lake Constance (click for map)

Toilet Facilities: There is a composting toilet at Lake Conastance. Please do not urinate in this toilet. Urinate on rock or on the trail 200 ft. from campsites or water sources. In other areas bury waste 6-8" and 200 ft from campsites and water sources. Pack out your toilet paper.

Water Source: Lake Constance & Constance Creek - Always boil, filter or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent Giardia.

Stock: Stock are prohibited

 

Special Concerns

Leave No Trace: Leave No Trace of your stay to protect vegetation and prevent further camping regulations. Camp in designated sites only at Lake Constance
Campfires: To protect sensitive vegetation, campfires are not allowed at Lake Constance and 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.

 

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. Always check weather forecasts before your trip.

 

Trail Conditions

 

Hiker descending Lake Constance Route