Jim Patterson

River in Ancient Olympic Forest

Description
Trail Conditions
Camping
Special Concerns
Safety
Map
Photos

Notices 

• Always call (360) 565-3131 to check the latest road conditions.

Description

Ecosystem type: Lowland forest river valley, montane forest, subalpine meadow
Trail tread types: Maintained
General elevation trend: Moderate  
Unique features: Skokomish River, ancient forest
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 12.7 miles to First Divide
Elevation change: 785 feet to 4,688 feet at First Divide
Best Season: Low Elevations: year round. High Elevations: early July through October.

Camping

Permits/Reservations: Obtain permits at the Staircase Ranger Station when open or the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles. No reservations necessary.
Food Storage Method: Bear wires are located at some camps. Bear canisters are required where food cannot be hung at least 12 feet high and 10 ft. out from the nearest tree trunk.
Campsites: Spike Camp, Big Log, Camp Pleasant, Nine Stream, Two Bear, Home Sweet Home. Elsewhere, please camp on bare ground only and not on vegetation and 200 feet from water sources.
Toilet Facilities:  Spike Camp, Camp Pleasant, Nine Stream, Home Sweet Home; elsewhere bury waste 6-8" 200 ft from water sources and campsites. Please pack out toilet paper.
Water Source: North Fork Skokomish River and nearby streams. Always boil, filter or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent Giardia.
Stock: Allowed, 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. Where fires are allowed, 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.