Humes Ranch Loop Trail

A view down the Elwha River valley. The river has multiple channels at certain points, sometimes rejoining to form one. The riverbed is made up of large swaths of exposed rocks. During a major rain event, the river would be much higher.
Elwha River near Humes Ranch

NPS Jim Patterson

Notices

  • For the most up to date information about how to obtain a Wilderness Permit, visit our Wilderness Reservations page.

  • Due to a road wash out, there is no vehicle access past the Madison Falls Trailhead parking. Access to the trailheads beyond is only accessible via hiking or biking the road and adds an additional 7 miles to your trip to get to the Whiskey Bend trailhead.

  • The Elwha River and its tributaries are closed to fishing.
  • Bears, cougars, and other wildlife frequent the Elwha. Practice proper food storage techniques.
 

Description

  • Ecosystem type: Lowland forest, lowland river valley
  • Trail tread types: Well-maintained
  • General elevation trend: Moderate
  • River crossings: None
  • Unique features: Historic homesteads and meadows; opportunities to view deer, elk and bear
  • Level of difficulty: Moderate
  • Distance: 2.5 miles to Humes Ranch
  • Elevation change: 102 feet elevation gain to Humes Ranch. 450 feet elevation gain on the way back. High point 1300 feet.
  • Best Season: All year
 

Camping

  • Food Storage Method: Community bear wires are available near the large meadow below the Humes Cabin.
  • Campsites: Humes Ranch, Krause Bottom
  • Toilet Facilities: None. Bury human waste 6-8" deep at least 200 feet from campsites and water sources. Pack out toilet paper.
  • Water Source: Elwha River and various side streams. Always boil, filter, or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent getting Giardia.
  • Stock: Camp only in established sites. See Stock Use.
 

Trail Conditions

 

Special Concerns

  • Leave No Trace: Leave No Trace of your stay to protect vegetation and prevent further camping regulations. Camp in established sites only. Please camp lightly to protect vegetation.
  • Campfires: Use preexisting fire rings and 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.
 

Safety

Bears are common in this area during the spring and summer months. Keep a clean camp and always secure food.

 
A historic black and white photo of three men outside of a small, rustic, wooden cabin. Underneath the photo reads the text: "Will Humes (l), Orlin Burdick, Grant Humes (r), Humes Ranch, 1905. Photo by Frank Pearson (Gerry Humes collection)."
Historic Humes Cabin
 
A large, lowland meadow lined with tall trees. Most of the trees that can be seen are evergreen, although there are some deciduous trees with no leaves.
Humes Ranch in Winter

NPS Michael Strunk

Last updated: April 25, 2025

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

600 E. Park Avenue
Port Angeles, WA 98362

Phone:

360 565-3130

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