Olympic National Park Wilderness Destination

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	North Fork Quinault River General Location: 12 miles northeast of Lake Quinault along East Fork Quinault River Valley. Trailhead: North Fork trailhead Notices: There is a river crossing at 16-mile camp. Check with the WIC for conditions. Contact the WIC for information about trailhead shuttles. (360) 565-3100	Be a Wilderness Steward. Always Leave No Trace of your stay in the wilderness. North Fork Quinault River Valley
	Description
	Ecosystem type: Rain forest river valley, subalpine area Trail tread types: Well-maintained General elevation trend: Moderate River crossings: Fords are necessary at Wild Rose Creek, Elip Creek and the North Fork Quinault River at 16-mile Camp. These can be dangerous during periods of heavy rain or snow-melt Unique features: Old-growth rain forest, wildflowers Level of difficulty: Moderate Distance: 15.9 miles to Low Divide Elevation change: 519 feet to 3602 feet Best Season: May through September - Low Divide can remain snow covered into July.
	Trail Conditions
	North Fork Quinault Trail Elwha River Trail
	Camping
	Permits/Reservations: Obtain permits at 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. Location and sites: Wolf Bar, Halfway House, Elip Creek, Trapper Shelter area, Twelve Mile area, 16 Mile Camp, Low Divide Toilet Facilities: Pit toilets are available at Elip Creek Camp, Trapper Shelter Camp, 12-Mile Camp, 16-Mile Camp, 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.
	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. Fires: To protect sensitive vegetation, campfires are not allowed 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
	Safety: Steam crossings may be high during winter, spring and during heavy rain or snow melt. Check trail conditions. Privacy & Disclaimer Author: Bryan Bell Last modified on: July 26, 2006 www.nps.gov/olym/wic/dnofoq.htm