Jim Patterson

Nork Fork Quinault River Trail

Notices
Description
Trail Conditions
Camping
Special Concerns
Safety
Map

General Location:  25 miles north of Lake Quinault along North Fork Quinault River Valley.

Notices

• Due to removal of the Glines Canyon Dam and other construction, Elwha area roads may be closed for extended periods of time. Visit the Road Conditions page for more information. 
• The river crossing at 16-mile can be difficult or impossible to cross during periods of heavy rain or snow melt.
• The North Fork Road may be closed during winter. Visit the Road Conditions page for more information.
• Contact the WIC for information about trailhead shuttles. (360) 565-3100

Description

Ecosystem type: Rain forest river valley 
Trail tread types: Well-maintained  
General elevation trend: Moderate
River crossings: River ford required at Wild Rose Creek and 16-mile. These crossings can be hazardous during high water. The Elip Creek footlog often washes out in winter. Check current conditions.
Unique features: Old-growth rain forest
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 16 miles to Low Divide
Elevation change: 519 feet to 3602 feet
Best Season: May through September (upper portion of trail usually snow covered through late June)

Camping

Permits/Reservations: Obtain permits at the WIC in Port Angeles or at the South Shore Lake Quinault Ranger Station located next to Lake Quinault Lodge. No reservations necessary.
Food Storage Method: Bear canisters and bear wires. Bear wires are located at Wolf Bar, Elip Creek and Low Divide. Bear canisters are recommended in other areas without wires.
Campsites: Wolf Bar, Elip Creek, Trapper, 16-mile and Low Divide.
Toilet Facilities: Pit toilets are available at Elip Creek, Trapper and Low Divide. In other areas bury waste 6-8" 200 ft from water sources and campsites. Please pack out toilet paper.  
Water Source: North Fork Quinault River and tributary streams. 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.
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

• During fall, winter and spring months, winter weather can occur even at lower elevations. Be prepared for down trees, snow, hazardous stream crossings, trail and road washouts and cool, very wet weather.
• Trees can also fall across the North Fork Road during wind storms.