West Lake Mills Trail

Jim Patterson

Elwha Valley South of Lake Mills

Description
Trail Conditions
Camping
Special Concerns
Safety
Map

Notices

• Access to this trail is currently closed due to restoration work.
• Learn more about Elwha River Restoration.
• Obtain your Wilderness Camping Permit at the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles, year round.

 

Description

Ecosystem type: Old growth forest
Trail tread types: Maintained
General elevation trend: Flat  
Unique features: Old growth forest
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.9 miles
Elevation change: 600 ft. to 700 ft.
Best Season: Year round

 

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: No established campsites along this trail. Always camp on bare ground, not on 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: Lake Mills and nearby streams. Always boil, filter or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent Giardia.
Stock: Prohibited. 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 are recommended.
• 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. Read the weather forecasts, but remember to read the weather in front of your face.

 

Trail Conditions