North Fork Sol Duc River Trail

Olympic Rain Forest

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.
• Numerous sections of this trail are difficult to follow in the last three miles and several river fords are necessary.
• A river crossing is necessary one mile from trailhead. River may be hazardous during fall, winter and spring or during periods of heavy rain.

 

Description

Ecosystem type: Old-growth forest, montane forest
Trail tread types: Primitive
General elevation trend: Mild
Unique features: River, ancient forest
Level of difficulty: Easy to difficult
Distance: 9.3 miles
Elevation change: 1600 ft. to 2800 ft.
Best Season: June through October depending on river level.

 

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.

 

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. If you are hanging food, make sure it is 12 ft. off the ground and 10 ft. out from the nearest tree trunk.
Campsites: Please camp on bare ground not on vegetation.
Toilet Facilities:  none; bury waste 6-8" 200 ft from water sources and campsites. Please pack out toilet paper.
Water Source: Sol Duc River and nearby streams. Always boil, filter or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent Giardia.
Stock: Allowed, check stock regulations. See Stock Use.

 

Safety

• A river crossing is necessary one mile from the trailhead and may be hazardous during fall, winter, spring or periods of heavy rain.
• Always carry the Ten 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. Check the weather forecast before your trip.

 

Trail Conditions