Wilderness is wild. These reports are updated as reported from visitors and staff. They may not reflect the conditions you find in the field. Conditions can change very quickly in this wilderness park.
Please email us your trail report. Olympic National Forest trail conditions
NEW!
General Notices:
- For more updates, always check weather & road conditions.
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Due to staffing levels, self-registration permits may not be available at remote self-registration boxes.
- Mountain goats can be dangerous. Mountain goats are not native to the Olympics and often aggressively pursue visitors to obtain salt from urine and sweat. Stay at least 50 yards away. Watch "Hiking Safely With Goats" and read "Goats and Your Safety."
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Visitors have left hundreds of piles of human feces unburied on sand and in the woods near campsites on the coast and in other areas of the park. DON'T BE A "SURFACE POOPER"!! Walk at least 70 steps (200 feet) away from water, trails, and camp, dig a hole 8 inches deep in soil, and bury your human waste. Take your toilet paper with you in a sealed plastic bag. ALWAYS use toilets when available.
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Please check trail conditions below for specific information about the area you plan to visit.
Southeast Trails
Staircase Area Notices:
- Always check weather & road conditions.
- Bear canisters are Required for camping at Enchanted Valley from above Pyrites Creek to the O'Neil Pass Junction.
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Staircase Area
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Description
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Mileage & Elevation
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Conditions
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North Fork Skokomish River Trail
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Trailhead to First Divide
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12.5 miles
785' to 4688'
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Trail is nicely brushed and clear of trees to Nine Stream camp. There are our trees down between Nine Stream and First Divide.
Trail is snow free. Fords at Nine Stream and Home Sweet Home are approximately ankle to mid-calf deep in the afternoon.
Reservations required for camping at Flapjack Lakes.
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7/27/19
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Staircase Rapids Loop Trail
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Trailhead to Jct. with Four Stream Trail
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2.1 miles
785' to 800'
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Trail in good condition.
Trail crew fixed bridge on Shady Lane 6/24/18
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7/27/19
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| Wagonwheel Lake Trail |
Trailhead to & including Wagonwheel Lake
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2.8 miles
785' to 4150' |
Very steep trail with limited water sources- 2.9 miles/3200' elevation gain.
Closed to stock.
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7/27/19
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Home Sweet Home Trail
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First Divide to Duckabush River Trail Jct. via Home Sweet Home
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2.6 miles
4688' to 2695' |
Trail is snow free. Home Sweet Home Ford approximately ankle to mid-calf deep in the afternoon.
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7/27/19 |
| Four Stream Trail |
Jct. Staircase Rapids Loop Trail to Four Stream |
1.2 miles
900' to 1000'
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No recent report.
Closed to stock. |
7/27/19
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Flapjack Lakes Trail
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Jct. North Fork Skokomish River Trail to & including Flapjack Lakes
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4.0 miles
1490' to 3900'
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Trail is cleared of all trees.
Visit the Reservations page for information about making camping reservations for this reservations-only area.
Closed to stock.
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7/27/19 |
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Upper Lena Lake Trail
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Park Boundary to & including Upper Lena Lake
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As of 6/1/2019, 25 down trees from park boundary to lake. 5 down trees around lake impacting campsites/trails.
Camp area is snow free. Patchy snow to Milk Lake.
The Lena Creek ford can become hazardous at any time due to heavy precipitation and seasonal snow melt. Plan to get your feet wet.
No camping within 0.25 mile of Scout Lake.
Visit the Reservations page for information about making camping reservations for this reservations-only area.
Closed to stock.
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7/27/19 |
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Gladys Divide Primitive Trail
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Flapjack Lakes to Gladys Divide |
1.4 miles
3900' to 5050'
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45 trees down on trail from Flapjacks to Gladys Divide. Trail is snow free.
Closed to stock.
Bear canisters are recommended above Flapjack Lakes; hanging food properly is very difficult in this area.
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7/27/19 |
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Black & White Lakes Primitive Trail
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Jct. North Fork Skokomish River Trail at Big Log to Black & White Lakes, Smith Lake junction
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2.5 miles
1500' to 4400'
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Expect brushy, unmaintained conditions. Approximately 3 trees down.
There are no water sources on this very steep trail.
Closed to stock.
Trees in this area are inadequate for food-hanging; bear canisters required when food cannot be hung at least 12' high and 10' out from the nearest tree trunk.
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7/27/19 |
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Black & White, Smith Lake Trail
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Jct. Flapjack Lakes Trail, through Black & White Lakes, to & including Smith Lake |
2.2 miles
3500' to 4400' to 3950' |
Trail is brushy and narrow in place, with several streams that will require "rock hopping" or getting your feet wet.
Steep and rocky trail from Black and White Lakes to Smith Lake.
Closed to stock. |
7/27/19 |
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Six Ridge Primitive Trail
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Jct. Sundown Lake Trail to North Fork Skokomish River Trail
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10.6 miles
4650' to 1500'
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No recent report.
Trail is difficult to follow through several meadows between Six Ridge Pass and the Lake Success/Mt. Olson Trail junction; hikers may be misled onto numerous elk trails. Good map and compass skills and route-finding skills are necessary.
No water sources between Belview and Seven Stream.
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7/27/19 |
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Putvin Primitive Trail (Lake of the Angels)
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Park boundary to & including Lake of the Angels |
0.6 miles; 3.0 additional outside park boundary
1580' to 4900'
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Four trees down from trailhead to lake. Brushy at times and trail can be muddy and wet.
There is high exposure at one section of the trail, known as the "headwall". Requires use of hands and feet to navigate. Exercise caution on this section.
Trees in this area are inadequate for food-hanging; bear canisters required when food cannot be hung at least 12' high and 10' out from the nearest tree trunk.
Closed to stock.
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7/27/19 |
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Duckabush River Trail
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Park boundary to Jct. Home Sweet Home & O'Neil Pass Trails
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11.0 miles
440' to 2695'
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Trail is clear of trees from park boundary to 10- mile. A reroute is in place around a slide area 7.5 miles in. There are several trees down still between 10-mile and Marmot Lake.
Creek crossings are reported to be high. The final crossing to Marmot Lake is reported to be ankle to knee deep in the afternoon and does require fording.
The Upper Duckabush ford can be hazardous during heavy precipitation and/or during early season snow melt.
10 Mile privy has been destroyed.
Ten-Mile bear wire is down. Be prepared to hang your food 12 ft high and 10 ft out or use a park approved bear canister.
Marmot Lake bear wires are down.
Trees in this area are inadequate for food-hanging; bear canisters required when food cannot be hung at least 12' high and 10' out from the nearest tree trunk.
Not stock passable as of 7/4/15. Stock highlines are down.
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7/27/19 |
Dosewallips Area Notices:
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Dosewallips Area
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Description
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Mileage & Elevation
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Conditions
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Lake Constance Trail
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Trailhead at Dosewallips Road to Lake Constance
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2.2 miles
1400' to |
Fires prohibited at Lake Constance.
No recent report.
There is no longer a sign on the Dosewallips Road marking the trail.
Many trees down and the trail is difficult to follow.
Vault toilet on south side of lake has been closed (full); north composting toilet in rock field is operational.
Closed to stock.
Dosewallips Road is washed out 6.5 miles east of the Dosewallips Ranger Station and Campground. Hikers can get around the washout using a trail.
Visit the Reservations page for information about making camping reservations at Lake Constance, which is a reservations-only area camping area.
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7/27/19
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West Fork Dosewallips River Trail
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Dose Forks to Anderson Pass
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9.0 miles
1600' to 4464'
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As of 6/9/19, trail is reported in 'good shape' with 13 down trees. Trail is snow free.
The creek crossing between Honeymoon and Diamond Meadows is reportedly mid calf to knee in the afternoon.
Visitor reports that the Diamond Meadows Privy has caved in.
Dosewallips Road is washed out 6.5 miles east of the Dosewallips Ranger Station and Campground. Hikers can get around the washout using a trail.
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7/27/19
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LaCrosse Pass Trail
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Jct. West Fork Dosewallips River Trail to Jct. Duckabush River Trail
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6.4 miles
3600' to 5566'
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14 Trees down Dosewallips Trail to Lacrosse Pass, 31 Trees from Lacrosse Pass to Upper Duckabush
Snow is present on trail for approximately 100 meters at the top of Lacrosse Pass. Trekking poles advised.
In late summer there are no water sources along this trail.
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7/27/19
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Anderson Moraine Trail
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Anderson Pass to Moraine
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0.8 miles
4465' to 5200'
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Patchy snow near morraine, but easily negotiated under ideal conditions.
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7/27/19
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Main Fork Dosewallips River Trail
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Dose Forks to Hayden Pass
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11.3 miles
1736' to 5847'
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Trail cleared to Grey Wolf junction. About a dozen trees down from Grey Wolf Junction to Dose Meadows with a few reroutes in place.
Dosewallips Road is washed out 6.5 miles east of the Dosewallips Ranger Station and Campground. Hikers can get around the washout using a trail.
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7/27/19
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Dosewallips River Trail
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Trailhead to Dose Forks
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1.4 miles
1600' to 1736' |
Trail is in decent condition. No recent report.
Dosewallips Road is washed out 6.5 miles east of the Dosewallips Ranger Station and Campground. Hikers can get around the washout using a trail.
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7/27/19 |
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Constance Pass Trail
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Jct. Main Fork Dosewallips River Trail to park boundary via Home Lake
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7.8 miles
2182' to 5850'
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33 trees down to Sunnybrook Meadow.
Brushy in some sections. No water source until about 1/2 mile below Sunnybrook meadows. Above the meadows, trail tread is poor and failing through a couple of rock slide sections.
Bear canisters are recommended for camping at Home Lake, Constance Pass and Sunnybrook Meadows; trees are not suitable for food-hanging.
Not recommended for stock; steep trail. Not stock passable through Olympic National Forest at this time.
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7/27/19
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Lost Pass Primitive Trail
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Dose Meadow to Lost Pass
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0.9 miles
4450' to 6200'
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Visitors report trail is snow free and in good shape.
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7/27/19
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Northeast Trails
Hurricane Ridge Area Notices:
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Hurricane Ridge Area
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Description
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Mileage & Elevation
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Conditions
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Royal Basin Trail
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Park Boundary via Royal Lake to & including Shelter Rock Area |
6.2 miles
2500' to 5100'
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Trail is snow free to lake. All campsites at the lake are melted out.
No recent report on route to Upper Royal Basin.
Bear canisters are required for Lower Meadow, Royal Lake and Upper Royal Basin.
Closed to stock.
Beware of aggressive mountain goats. Goats have been frequenting campsites at Royal Lake and the Upper Basin. Read Goats and Your Safety. Watch this video called Hiking Safely With Goats.
Read the Reservations page for information about obtaining reservations for camping at this reservations-only camp area.
There is no longer a self-pay box for the NW Forest Pass
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7/12/19
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Three Forks Trail
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Trailhead (Deer Park) to Jct. Gray Wolf River Trail |
4.3 miles
5400' to 2150'
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No recent report.
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7/12/19
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Upper Gray Wolf River Trail
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Park Boundary via Three Forks to Main Fork Dosewallips River Trail.
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~ 14.6 miles
2050' to 6200' to 3550'
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Washout on Lower Graywolf Trail. Upper Trail and Slab Camp Trail not accessible from Lower Graywolf Trailhead.
No recent report.
See USFS website for information on Lower Graywolf Trail
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7/12/19
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Cedar Lake Way Trail
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Jct. Gray Wolf River Trail to & including Cedar Lake
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2.1 miles
3900' to 5300'
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No recent report.
Trail start can be difficult to find: begins at top of meadow near camp sites.
Trail is difficult to navigate after creek crossing.
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7/12/19
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Cameron Creek Trail
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Three Forks to jct. Grand Pass Trail
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7.0 miles
2150' to 4200' |
No recent report.
As of 7/28/2018: 30 ft wide rock gully with steep entry and exit points on either side. Use extreme caution. Brushy trail, hard to follow.
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7/12/19
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Grand Valley/Grand Pass Trail
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Obstruction Point via Grand Valley & Pass to jct. Cameron Creek Trail
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7.7 miles
6100' to 4750' |
Obstruction Point Road is open for the season.
As of 6/25/19, patchy snow remains on Lillian Ridge but easily traversed w/o gear. Snow begins towards Grand Pass about .5 miles above Gladys Lake. Continuous soft snow about 1/4 mile below pass, with two sections where an ice ax would be beneficial. South side of Grand Pass appeared to be effectively snow free.
No recent report.
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7/12/19
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Cameron Pass Trail
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Jct. Grand Pass Trail to Cameron Pass
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3.6 miles
4150' to 6450'
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All the campsites at Upper Cameron are snow free. Snow picks up just at the base of Cameron Pass, and then steep snow up to Cameron Pass.
Trees in Upper Cameron Basin are inadequate for food-hanging; bear canisters required when food cannot be hung at least 12' high and 10' out from the nearest tree trunk.
Trail not recommended for stock due to steep grade. |
7/12/19
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Cameron-Lost Pass Primitive Trail
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Cameron Pass to Lost Pass
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1.9 miles
6200' to 6450'
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No recent report. Expect snow at high elevations.
Trail can be difficult to follow along creek beds and meadow areas.
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7/12/19
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Deer Ridge Trail
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Boundary to jct. Three Forks Trail
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1.5 miles
2550' to 5400'
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Trail is snow free. 4 down trees in the first 2 miles.
Not passable for stock.
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7/12/19
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Badger Valley Primitive Trail
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Obstruction Point via Badger Valley to jct. Grand Lake Trail
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4.7 miles
6100' to 4000'
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Obstruction Point Road is open for the season.
As of 7/1/19, snow at headwall is still present but no longer a hazard. Trail has 3 trees down, largest 24". Trail is otherwise in great condition.
Overnight hikers must register at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles.
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7/12/19
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Elk Mountain Primitive Trail
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Elk Mountain to jct. Badger Valley Trail
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1.3 miles
6650' to 5600' |
As of 6/9/19, Obstruction Point Rd. not yet open for the season.
No recent report.
Not recommended for stock.
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7/12/19
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Obstruction Point to Deer Park Trail
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Obstruction Point to Deer Park
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7.4 miles
6100' to 5400' |
Obstruction Point Road is open for the season.
Trail is reported snow free to Maiden Peak; no recent report beyond. There is typically long-lasting snow wall just before the Obstruction Point parking lot.
Beware of goats frequenting this area. Stay at least 50 yards away from goats by yelling, waving coats, and throwing rocks. Read Goats and Your Safety and watch Hiking Safely with Goats for more information.
There are no water sources on this trail.
Overnight hikers must register at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles.
Not recommended for stock.
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7/12/19
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PJ Lake Primitive Trail
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Obstruction Point Road at Waterhole to PJ Lake
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0.9 miles
5050' to 4550' |
No recent report.
Overnight visitors must register at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles.
Not recommended for stock.
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7/12/19
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| Cox Valley Primitive Trail |
Obstruction Point Road to end of trail
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1.8 miles
4900' to 3700'
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No recent report.
Overnight hikers must register at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles.
Not recommended for stock.
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7/12/19
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Lake Angeles/ Klahhane Ridge Trail
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Trailhead at Heart O' the Hills via Lake Angeles to jct. Switchback/Heather Park Trail.
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6.3 miles
1850' to 6000'
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As of 6/11/19, trail is snow free to Lake Angeles, with patchy snow slopes above. Ice ax recommended for difficult sections.
Goats are frequently seen in this area. Keep at least 50 yards from goats at all times and be prepared to chase them off by yelling, waving coats or throwing rocks. Please see Goats and Your Safety or watch the video Hiking Safely With Goats for more information.
Overnight hikers must register at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles.
Bear canisters recommended for food storage.
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7/12/19
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Heather Park Trail
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Trailhead via Heather Park to jct. Switchback Trail
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6.2 miles
1850' to 6000'
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As of 6/11/19, patchy snow begins at Heather Park. 4 sites are melted out. Travel above Heather Park may require an ice ax.
Goats are frequently seen in this area. Keep at least 50 yards from goats at all times and be prepared to chase them off by yelling, waving coats or throwing rocks. Please see Goats and Your Safety and Hiking Safely with Goats for more information.
Overnight hikers must register at Wilderness Information Center in Port Angles. Bear Canisters are required for food storage.
Not recommended for stock.
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6/11/19
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Switchback Trail
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Trailhead to jct. of Lake Angeles & Heather Park Trails
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1.6 miles
4400' to 5900'
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As of 6/9/19, trail is snow free.
Goats are frequently seen in this area. Keep at least 50 yards from goats at all times and be prepared to chase them off by yelling, waving coats or throwing rocks. Please see Goats and Your Safety and watch Hiking Safely With Goats for more information.
Overnight hikers must register at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles. Not recommended for stock.
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6/9/19
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Hurricane Ridge to Switchback
Trail
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Jct. High Ridge Nature Trail to jct. Switchback Trail
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2.8 miles
5300' to 5100'
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As of 6/7/2019, trail is 90% snow free. One snow-filled gully remains, approximately 1 mile from the High Ridge junction. Trekking poles may be helpful to navigate the slope.
Goats are frequently seen in this area. Keep at least 50 yards from goats at all times and be prepared to chase them off by yelling, waving coats or throwing rocks. Please see Goats and Your Safety for more information.
Trail not recommended for stock.
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6/9/19
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Wolf Creek Trail
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Whiskey Bend Rd. to Hurricane Hill Picnic Area
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8.1 miles
1198' to 5100'
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No recent report.
Not stock passable to Whiskey Bend.
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6/9/19
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Little River Trail
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Boundary to Hurricane Hill Nature Trail |
6.8 miles
1000' to 5100'
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From May 1 through late October, Hurricane Hill Trail will be under construction and closed periodically. Check the project page for status info.
As of 6/9/19, trail crew reports trail has been cleared from Hurricane Hill Trail down 4 miles.
Stock user reports dangerous location for stock 1/2 mile past first footlog: slide prevents stock users from moving forward on trail and backward on trail if already at the slide. Stock users advised to not go past first footlog.
Overnight visitors must register at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles.
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6/9/19
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Elwha to Hurricane Hill Trail
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Whiskey Bend Road to jct. Hurricane Hill Nature Trail
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5.8 miles
400' to 5650' |
From May 1 through late October, Hurricane Hill Trail will be under construction and closed periodically. Check the project page for status info.
As of 6/9/19, trail crew reports trail has been cleared from Hurricane Hill to 3000' in elevation.
Not stock passable.
Goats are frequently seen in this area. Keep at least 50 yards from goats at all times and be prepared to chase them off by yelling, waving coats or throwing rocks. Please see Goats and Your Safety for more information.
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6/9/19
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Heart O' the Forest Trail
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Heart O' the Hills Campground to park boundary |
2.3 miles
1900' to 1400'
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As of 6/12/19, trail clear of down trees for first 1.5 miles. No recent report beyond.
Closed to stock.
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6/12/19
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Elwha Area Notices:
- Due to significant flood damage/road washout the Elwha area is closed to vehicle access beyond the Madison Falls parking area. From that point, it is 6.5 miles to the Whiskey Bend Trailhead and nearly 8 miles to the Boulder Creek Trailhead via the temporary access trail which bypasses the road washout.
- Always check weather & road conditions.
- The Elwha River and its tributaries are closed to fishing.
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Elwha Area
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Trail Name
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Description
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Mileage & Elevation
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Conditions
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Updated
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Griff Creek Trail
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Trailhead to end of trail
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2.8 miles
400' to 3500'
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No recent report.
As of 4/12/2018, visitor reports 5 down trees.
Closed to stock.
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6/9/19
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Elwha River Trail
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Whiskey Bend to Lake Margaret
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27.7 miles
1198' to 3650'
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As of 5/22/2019, trail cleared to Elkhorn.
The Elwha River and its tributaries are closed to fishing.
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6/6/19
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Humes Ranch Loop
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Geyser Valley, Krause Bottom, Rica Canyon and Humes Ranch Loop
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4.3 miles
1198' to 900'
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As of 4/22/19, visitor reports cut-off trail to Goblin's Gate has 12 down trees and one messy rock and tree slide that is tough to navigate. 10 down trees from Goblin's Gate to Humes Ranch, including a challenging tangle of several trees. As of 3/30/19, visitor reports a difficult, possibly impassable washout between Humes Ranch and the Elwha Bridge.
Bear wires are located near the meadow below Humes Cabin.
The Elwha River and its tributaries are closed to fishing.
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6/9/19
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Lillian River Trail
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Jct. Elwha River Trail to end of trail (mile 3.0)
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2.5 miles
1600' to 2650'
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No recent report.
Very brushy and difficult to navigate in places.
The Elwha River and its tributaries are closed to fishing.
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6/9/19
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Hayden Pass Trail
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Jct. Elwha River Trail to Hayden Pass
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8.4 miles
1800' to 5847'
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Trail is mostly snow free on the south side of the pass, expect to cross large snowfields on the north side above 4500'. Down trees/debris to step over on trail but all easily bypassed. One difficult gully to get in and out of about 1.5 miles west of the pass.
Not stock passable.
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6/6/19
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Long Ridge Trail
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Jct. Humes Ranch Loop Trail (mile 1.0) to Dodger Point
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10.5 miles
900' to 5753'
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No recent report.
In summer, the last reliable water source is a spring at 4420'. |
6/9/19
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Dodger Point Primitive Trail
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Jct. Long Ridge Trail to jct. Elwha River Trail via Semple Plateau
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5.2 miles
5800' to 1451'
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No recent report.
Trail is mostly difficult to navigate through the meadows/bogs close to the river. The rest of the trail has a couple of washouts and down trees but not hard to follow.
The last reliable water source is 1 mile below Dodger Point.
The Elwha River crossing at Remann's Cabin is always very difficult and impossible during high streamflow events.
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6/9/19
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Elwha Basin Way Trail
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Happy Hollow to Elwha Basin
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2.4 miles
2300' to 2600'
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No recent report.
Trail is difficult to follow in places. River is difficult to cross.
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Happy Hollow Trail
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Jct. Elwha River Trail @ Chicago Camp to Happy Hollow
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0.7 miles
2100' to 2300'
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No recent report.
This is a primitive trail and is not maintained.
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6/7/19
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West Elwha Trail
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Altair Campground to Herrick Road
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3.0 miles
390' to 600'
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As of 4/1/19, trail is snow free and in generally good condtion.
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6/9/19
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Happy Lake Ridge Trail
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Trailhead on Olympic Hot Springs Road via Happy Lake Ridge to jct. Boulder Lake Trail
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9.5 miles
1300' to 5409'
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No recent report.
Trailhead sign has been destroyed - as of 6/1/2019, a small handwritten sign on tape was in place.
Bear canisters recommended at Happy Lake.
Happy Lake and Boulder Lake are the only water sources on this trail.
Not Stock Passable beyond Happy Lake.
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6/9/19
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| Boulder Creek Trail |
Trailhead to Olympic Hot Springs |
2.5 miles
1800' to 2061' |
As of 5/29/19, two down trees along trail. Several minor creek crossings running ankle deep.
Campfires are prohibited at the Boulder Creek camp area and the Hot Springs due to extensive damage by visitors and subsequent revegetation efforts.
The privy is located in the old parking lot just below the campground.
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6/9/19 |
| Boulder Lake Trail |
Olympic Hot Springs to Boulder Lake |
3.5 miles 2061' to 4300' |
As of 5/29/19, patchy snow begins at lake, with snow bridging over shallow creeks in the area. 3 campsites are melted out at the lake.
3 down trees reported on trail.
Boulder Lake bear wire is down. Hanging food would be difficult in the area - campers should consider bringing a bear canister for food storage.
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6/9/19 |
| Appleton Pass Trail |
Jct. Boulder Lake Trail to Appleton Pass |
4.6 miles |
As of 5/28/19, patchy snow begins at 3500', becoming continuous at 4200'. Route-finding skills, an ice ax and self-arrest skills are required. 2 campsites near pass are melted out. Oyster Lake still frozen over.
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6/9/19
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| Smokey Hill Trail |
Whiskey Bend Road to Elwha River |
.5 miles |
No recent report.
Watch for areas of deep mud. Park crews have planted over 30,000 plants for the Elwha Restoration project. Please avoid walking on plants.
The Elwha River and its tributaries are closed to fishing.
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6/9/19
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Smokey Bottom Trail
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West Lake Mills Abutment TH to Boulder Creek |
1.9 miles
600' to 620'
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As of 6/9/19, trail is overgrown and not clear in places. Multiple, easily bypassed trees on trail. Small foot bridges are stable.
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6/9/19
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Northwest Trails
Lake Crescent Area Notices:
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Lake Crescent Area
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| Trail Name |
Description |
Mileage & Elevation |
Conditions |
Updated |
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Mt. Storm King Trail
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Jct. Barnes Creek Trail to end of trail (mile 1.7) |
1.7 miles
700' to 2700' |
Trail is in good condition, no down trees.
Caution: Trail end sign is missing. Route is exposed and steep with loose rock. If visitors have placed ropes on this route, they are neither installed nor maintained by NPS and may be unsafe.
Closed to stock.
Fires are prohibited along this trail and at the summit.
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7/12/19 |
|
Barnes Creek Trail
|
Jct. Marymere Falls Trail to jct. Upper Barnes Creek Primitive Trail |
3.3 miles
800' to 2000' |
Trail free of down trees from trailhead to 2 miles. No report past 2 miles. |
7/12/19 |
|
Upper Barnes Creek Primitive Trail
|
Barnes Creek Trail to Hughes Creek/Barnes Creek Divide |
5.3 miles
2000' to 3600'
|
No recent report.
Trail may be difficult to follow near the end. Lizard Head creek can be difficult to cross.
Closed to stock.
|
7/12/19 |
|
Aurora Divide Trail
|
Barnes Creek Trail to jct. Aurora Ridge Trail |
3.6 miles
500' to 2000'
|
No recent report.
As of 8/22/17 18 trees down. Trail is hard to follow in some places. |
7/12/19 |
|
Aurora Creek Trail
|
Trailhead (HWY 101) to jct. Aurora Ridge Trail |
3.4 miles
500' to 4200'
|
Visitors report 22 trees over the trail in its 3.4 miles
Closed to stock.
|
7/12/19 |
|
Aurora Ridge Trail
|
Sol Duc Road to jct. Happy Lake Ridge Trail |
16.9 miles
1200' to 5000' |
Visitors report no down trees. Trail overgrown, very difficult to follow E of Aurora Spring.
No water after the first mile of trail (excluding Eagle Lakes) to the bottom of switchbacks east of Sourdough Mountain.
Eagle Lakes Trail is closed to stock.
|
7/12/19 |
|
Pyramid Peak Trail
|
Trailhead (Camp David Junior Road) to summit of Pyramid Peak |
3.5 miles
650' to 3000' |
As of most recent report, 2 down trees. The trail through the slide area may not be passable for some groups; sections of the trail through the slide are as narrow as <1 foot and might be challenging if wet.
Trail is currently not passable to stock.
|
7/12/19 |
|
Spruce Railroad Trail
|
Dead end of East Beach Road to dead end of Camp David Jr. Road |
4.0 miles
|
Latest round of trail work is now complete and the trail is open. Be prepared for possible rough, muddy conditions. The final phase of the trail improvement project will require a full trail closure and is anticipated to begin in January/February 2020 at the earliest. Final paving followed by reopening of the trail is expected in fall 2020. |
8/20/2019 |
Sol Duc Area Notices:
- The Sol Duc Road can close during the winter season. Always check the weather & road conditions for current status.
- Obtain Wilderness Camping Permits at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles. Reservations are required around the Seven Lakes Basin loop.
- Stay at least 50 yards away from the animals and store all food properly.
- All food, garbage, beverages and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters in the Sol Duc/High Divide Loop/Mink Lake area including Cat Basin and all areas within the Main Fork Sol Duc River Drainage.
|
Sol Duc Area
|
| Trail Name |
Description |
Mileage & Elevation |
Conditions |
Updated |
| North Fork Sol Duc River Trail |
Trailhead to North Fork of North Fork Sol Duc (mile 6.3) |
9.3 miles
1600' to 2800' |
As of most recent report, there are 5 down trees between trailhead and first crossing. Many small down trees along route, 6 were over 12 " in diameter. A couple larger down trees. One trail washout.
The North Fork Sol Duc must be forded at one mile. The ford regularly runs deep and can become hazardous at any time due to heavy precipitation and seasonal snowmelt.
|
7/12/19 |
| Sol Duc River Trail |
Trailhead to jct. High Divide Trail |
8.4 miles
1900' to 4800'
|
Trail is snow free. There are reportedly 14 down trees to Heart Lake.
All food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters in the Sol Duc/High Divide Loop/Mink Lake area.
|
7/12/19 |
| Appleton Pass Trail |
Jct. Sol Duc River Trail to Appleton Pass |
2.6 miles
3000' to 5100' |
14 trees down to pass. Trail is almost snow free- slight route-finding issues around tarns midway up the trail, where patchy snow obscures the trail.
Oyster Lake still has water. Segments of brushy trail from the pass to junciton with Boulder Creek can make navigating difficult.
All food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters in the Sol Duc/High Divide Loop/Mink Lake area.
|
6/14/19 |
| High Divide Trail |
Jct. Deer Lake & Little Divide Trails to jct. Cat Basin Trail |
7.8 miles
3600' to 4500' |
As of 6/26/19, trail is virtually snow free with a few patches of easily crossed snow.
One section of trail near the Lunch Lake junction is in poor condition due to landslide or seismic activity. Though easily crossable, there are multiple narrow, deep crevasses across the trail and unsteady footing in this area.
No water up on High Divide - groups camping at Silver Snag and Heart Lake Junction will need to carry water from a source below.
Please do not walk on plants and other vegetation.
Please use toilets where available.
All food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters in the Sol Duc/High Divide Loop/Mink Lake area.
Trail not recommended for stock due to steep, narrow trail tread in some places. |
6/26/19 |
| Cat Basin Primitive Trail |
Jct. High Divide Trail to Cat Basin |
0.6 miles
5050' to 4300' |
Trail is primitive and can be hard to find at times.
All food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters in the Sol Duc/High Divide Loop/Mink Lake area.
|
7/12/19 |
| Lunch Lake Trail |
Jct. High Divide Trail to & including Lunch Lake |
0.6 miles
4800' to 4450' |
Trail is snow free. Lunch Lake campsites are snow free.
One section of trail near the Lunch Lake junction is in poor condition due to landslide or seismic activity. Though easily crossable, there are multiple narrow, deep crevasses across the trail and unsteady footing in this area.
All food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters in the Sol Duc/High Divide Loop/Mink Lake area.
|
7/12/19 |
| Deer Lake Trail |
Jct. Sol Duc River Trail via Sol Duc Falls and Deer Lake to jct. Little Divide Trail |
3.0 miles
2000' to 3600' |
As of 6/14/2019, trail is free of snow and cleared of trees to Deer Lake. Expect bugs.
All food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters in the Sol Duc/High Divide Loop/Mink Lake area.
|
7/12/19 |
| Mink Lake Trail |
Trailhead (Sol Duc Resort) to jct. Bogachiel River & Little Divide Trails |
4.3 miles
1643' to 4130' |
Two difficult to pass large trees and a small landslide are across the trail ~1-1.5 miles from the trail head.
All food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters in the Sol Duc/High Divide Loop/Mink Lake area.
|
7/12/19 |
| Lover's Lane Trail |
Jct. Mink Lake Trail to jct. Deer Lake Trail |
2.9 miles
1643' to 2000' |
Trail is in good shape. No down trees.
Hidden Lake Creek ford can become hazardous at any time due to heavy precipitation and/or seasonal snowmelt.
All food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters in the Sol Duc/High Divide Loop/Mink Lake area.
|
7/12/19 |
| Little Divide Trail |
Jct. Bogachiel River & Mink Lake Trails to jct. Deer Lake & High Divide Trails |
3.5 miles
4130' to 3600' |
No recent report.
20 trees down, most easy to get over. Trail is easy to follow despite down trees
All food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters in the Sol Duc/High Divide Loop/Mink Lake area.
Experienced stock and stock users only.
|
7/12/19 |
Hoh/Bogachiel Area Notices:
|
Hoh/Bogachiel Area
|
| Trail Name |
Description |
Mileage & Elevation |
Conditions |
Updated |
| North Snider-Jackson Primitive Trail (Rugged Ridge + Indian Pass Trail) |
Boundary to jct. Bogachiel River Trail |
6.3 miles
1300' to 1700' to 800'
|
No recent report.
As of 8/24/2018, Overall trail is in good condition. 10 down trees, all fairly easy to bypass. No signage at the trailhead.
The Calawah River ford can become hazardous at any time due to heavy precipitation and seasonal snow melt.
Not recommended for stock.
|
7/12/19 |
| Bogachiel River Trail |
Boundary to jct. Mink Lake & Little Divide Trails |
21.6 miles
400' to 4130' |
The Undie Road is open to the trailhead using a by-pass road to get around a wash out.
As of 8/4/2018, there are two washouts before Park boundary (USFS) between miles 1 and 1.5. Impassable to stock. Use caution on washouts and other areas undercut by river.
Washout at Mosquito Creek requires use of rope assist for the bypass section. This rope is not maintained by the National Park Service.
Minimal down trees along trail until Flapjack, and 4 down trees between Flapjack and Fifteenmile mile.
The trail from Fifteenmile to Twentyone Mile is very brushy and overgrown. Many down trees.
Shelter at Twentyone Mile no longer exists and has one small campsite. No bear wires or toilets anywhere in the Bogachiel drainage.
Trail is currently not passable to stock.
Some creek and river crossings can become hazardous at any time due to heavy precipitation and seasonal snow melt.
All food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters in the Sol Duc/High Divide Loop/Mink Lake area.
|
7/12/19 |
| South Snider-Jackson Trail |
Jct. Bogachiel River South Bank Trail to Hoh Road |
10.0 miles
560' to 3200' |
No recent report.
As of 7/25/2017, the trail has been cleared the first 3 miles from the Hoh side. Over 100 down trees from there to the Bogachiel.
Trail from Tumwata Creek to the ford is somewhat difficult to find.
The Bogachiel river must be forded. The ford regularly runs deep and can become hazardous at any time due to heavy precipitation and snow melt.
Trail is currently not stock passable.
The only water source on this trail is Tumwata Creek at the north terminus.
Not stock passable currently.
|
7/12/19 |
| Hoh River Trail |
Trailhead to Glacier Meadows |
17.5 miles
600' to 5000' |
Bear canisters are now required at 5 Mile Island due to coyotes actively stealing food and non-food/gear items from visitors.
In all other sites in the Hoh area, all food, garbage, and scented items must be stored using park established bear wires or park approved bear canisters at all times.
The stock hitching post at 5 Mile Island has washed away. Trail is closed to stock (except llamas) beyond Elk Lake. An avalanche chute ladder is in place between Elk Lake and Glacier Meadows with several broken rungs- USE CAUTION.
Campfires are not permitted at or above Elk Lake.
Visit the Reservations page for more information about obtaining reservations for Martin Creek, Elk Lake and Glacier Meadows, which are reservations-only areas.
|
7/12/19 |
| Mount Olympus |
Mount Olympus climbing routes |
Mileage varies |
This is a technical mountaineering climb and should not be attempted by the average hiker. Technical gear and skills are extremely recommended.
As of 6/26/19, visitors report unusually rapid melt out conditions with crevasses exposed on the Blue Glacier. The Crystal Pass route also has large exposed crevasses with melting snow bridges.
There is NO blue bag deposit on the lateral moraine. Human waste must be carried out in blue bags or WAG bags. Climbers must bring WAG bags or pick them up with their permit at the Port Angeles Wilderness Information Center.
|
7/12/19 |
| Hoh Lake Trail |
Hoh River Trail to jct with High Divide Trail |
6.5 miles
948' to 5474' |
Trail is clear of snow to Hoh Lake and snow free to High Divide.
Many downed trees from Hoh lake to C.B. Flats and beyond to Hoh River Trail.
Steep, exposed grade (no canopy) through 1978 burn. No water sources along this trail until C.B Flats.
Not stock passable. |
7/12/19 |
| South Fork Hoh River Trail |
Trailhead to end of maintained trail |
4.2 miles
750' to 800' |
No recent report.
As of 8/24/2018, trail is in great shape; No blowdowns or obstacles. |
7/12/19 |
Southwest Trails
Quinault Area Notices:
|
Quinault Area
|
|
Trail Name
|
Description
|
Mileage & Elevation
|
Conditions
|
Updated
|
|
Irely Lake Trail
|
Trailhead (North Fork Quinault River Rd.) to & including Irely Lake |
1.1 miles
500' to 600' |
Clear of downed trees. The trail is a bit brushy and overgrown in areas.. Lake level dropping and beginning to dry out for the season.
Closed to stock.
Overnight hikers can register at South Shore Lake Quinault Ranger Station.
|
8/2/19 |
|
Big Creek Trail
|
Irely Lake to & including Three Lakes |
5.9 miles
600' to 3200' |
Overall, trail is overgrown and brushy. Several downed trees with a few requiring some effort to work around
Big Creek bridge has been removed, requiring a river ford. River normally ankle to knee deep during the summer season.
Above Big Creek, a slide area is somewhat difficult to traverse. .
Closed to stock.
Overnight hikers must register at South Shore Lake Quinault Ranger Station.
|
8/2/19 |
|
Three Lakes Trail
|
Three Lakes to jct. Elip Creek Trail |
2.9 miles
3200' to 4000' |
Trail is in decent shape, brushy in places. Adequate water from Three Lakes to Three Prune.
Closed to stock.
Overnight hikers must register at South Shore Lake Quinault Ranger Station.
|
8/2/19 |
|
Skyline Primitive Trail
|
Elip Creek Trail via Kimta Peak to North Fork Quinault Trail |
20.1 miles
3350' to 5400' |
Trail mostly snow free with the exception of a few lingering patches at the head of Promise Creek Basin. No water between 3 Prune and Kimta Peak (5+ miles). Water is plentiful between Kimta Peak and Low Divide. A few large deadfalls between Three Prune and Low Divide. Expert route finding/navigation skills recommended. This route is strenuous with a lot of elevation gain/loss.
Trail is difficult to follow between Kimta Peak and Seattle Creek due to brush, blowdowns, and game trails.
No water sources between Three Prune and Kimta Peak.
Bear Canisters are required in most areas along this trail due to lack of good trees for hanging food and a large bear population.
Closed to stock.
Overnight hikers must register at South Shore Lake Quinault Ranger Station.
|
8/2/19 |
|
Elip Creek Trail
|
Jct. North Fork Quinault River Trail to jct. Skyline Trail |
4.6 miles
1000' to 3350' |
Trail clear.
The Elip Creek Bear wire is damaged and requires a rope to use. Privy is across the creek from the campsites.
Closed to stock. |
8/2/19 |
|
Martins Park/Lakes Primitive Trail
|
Jct. Elwha River to Martins Lakes |
2.4 miles
3600' to 4500' |
Snow free. Trail brushed on 7/14/19 but still primitive in places. The trail is waterlogged in certain areas, especially within the first mile, and can be a bit overgrown where the stream crosses the trail. Once you arrive to the lower meadow the trail is much better defined up until the lakes.
|
8/2/19 |
|
North Fork Quinault River Trail
|
Trailhead to Lake Margaret |
16.5 miles |
Overall in decent condition. Trail brushy in places, especially between 16 mile camp and Low Divide.
Small washout between 12 and 16 mile currently being worked on by trail crew. Large washout section on North Fork trail between Low Divide and 16 Mile, hikers can bypass on rocks/deadfall above, tricky but stable.
16 Mile ford is 1-2 feet deep.
Elip Creek bear wire requires your own rope. 12 mile bear wire is down and the shelter is buried in gravel. Camping at 12 Mile is not recommended due to many hazard trees near the buried shelter; camping on the gravel bar 0.25 miles downriver from the old shelter is recommended.
*Wild Rose Creek, Elip Creek and the river ford at Sixteen Mile Quinault River may become impassable due to heavy precipitation and snowmelt.
Overnight hikers can register at South Shore Lake Quinault Ranger Station.
|
8/2/19 |
|
East Fork Quinault River Trail
|
Trailhead to Anderson Pass |
18.2 miles
646' to 4465' |
Graves Creek Road Closed to Vehicles for Road Repair Project Beginning September 3, 2019 for 4 weeks. No vehicle access to Trailhead and Graves Creek Campground. After first of three repairs is complete (estimated to require 1 week) the road will be open to foot, bicycle and stock users for the remainder of the work. Limited parking. See news release in link above for details.
All food (including scented, packaged, & dehydrated food), garbage, and scented items (including lip balm, sunscreen, alcohol, tobacco, etc.) must be stored in bear cans AT ALL TIMES in Enchanted Valley (between Pyrites Creek camp and the O'neil Pass Trail jct).
Trail clear for stock use up to Enchanted Valley. Anderson Pass is snow free. Water supplies limited between Fire Creek and No Name Creek.
Enchanted Valley has a high population of bears; stay a minimum of 50 yards away from park wildlife.
The emergency shelter at Enchanted Valley is closed.
Overnight hikers need to register at South Shore Lake Quinault Ranger Station.
|
8/9/19 |
Queets Area Notices:
- Caution: The Queets River ford can be hazardous at any time of the year.
- Always check weather & road conditions.
|
Queets Area
|
|
Trail Name
|
Description
|
Mileage & Elevation
|
Conditions
|
Updated
|
|
Queets River Trail
|
Trailhead to Pelton Creek |
16.2 miles
360' to 800' |
Trail is relatively easy to follow for the first 9 miles with very few trees down and many areas with very faint tread.
There is a washout .3 miles west of Bob Creek, about 200 yards long with an easy bypass by the river.
The trail past Bob Creek is extremely difficult to follow due to damage from the 2015 Paradise Fire. Numerous down trees. Expert route finding and navigation skills required. Camping past Bob Creek is not recomended due to many dead standing trees.
Trail is currently not passable to stock due to many blow-downs.
Fording the Queets River can be dangerous. For river levels, visit Queets Stream Flow. The river is generally fordable when the flow (measured at highway 101) is below 800 CFS. The crossing can still be waist deep or deeper even at this level. The river is generally not fordable during late fall, winter and spring.
Riverflow can go from fordable levels to unfordable levels, reaching 10,000 CFS or more within a few hours after heavy rain. Know the weather forecast. Don't get caught upriver during a rain storm unless you have planned in advance to stay awhile.
|
7/12/19 |
|
Lower Crossing Route
|
Queets River Trail @ Spruce Bottom to Smith Place |
2.1 miles
400' to 500' |
No recent report.
|
7/12/19 |
|
Sam's River Loop
|
Loop Trail from Queets Trailhead to Ranger Station and return |
2.8 miles
|
Trail is in good condition. |
7/12/19 |
|
Upper Crossing Route
|
Queets River Trail to & including Smith Place |
0.3 miles
No elevation gain. |
No recent report. |
7/12/19 |
Coastal Trails & Routes
Coastal Area Notices:
- Self-registration boxes may be empty. Stop at WIC in Port Angeles or South Shore Quinault Ranger Station to obtain a Wilderness Camping Permit and bear canisters.Ozette Ranger Station does NOT issue permits or bear canisters.
- ALL food, garbage and scented items must be stored in park approved Bear Canisters at all times along the entire Olympic National Park Wilderness Coast. Canisters may be available for loan at the WIC in Port Angeles or the South Shore Quinault Ranger Station.
- Visitors have left hundreds of piles of human feces unburied on the Coast and in other areas of the park. Walk at least 70 steps (200 feet) away from water, trails, and camp areas, dig a hole 8 inches deep in soil, and bury your human waste and toilet paper. ALWAYS use toilets when available.
- Iodine is not sufficient for water treatment as it does not kill cryptosporidium. Boiling or filtering water water is recommended.
- Storms can bring high wind and surf, storm surges, and beach and trail erosion.
- Coastal routes and stream crossings can be extremely difficult or impossible to traverse during high surf or heavy rain events. Always check weather and tides before attempting a coastal hike. Carry a tide table and topographic map with tidal markings and know how to use them.
- Ropes on overland trails are not installed or maintained by the National Park Service. Use at your own risk.
- Always check tides, weather & road conditions.
|
North Coast
|
|
|
Description
|
|
Conditions
|
Date
|
|
Shi-Shi to Cape Alava Beach Trail
|
Makah Reservation Trailhead to Cape Alava
|
14.3 miles
|
Headland routes are often muddy, brushy and slick. Headland trails can be difficult to spot from the beach due to vegetation obscuring targets or missing targets.
Shi Shi Beach Toilets: North toilet is located at the south end of wooded campsites at park boundary; center toilet is located behind the large Petroleum Creek campsite; south toilet is located in forest north of Willoughby Creek.
Water sources can run low in the summer months. Chlorine and iodine do not effectively purify coastal water for human consumption.
Closed to stock.
No pets, use of weapons or wheeled devices.
|
|
|
North Coast Beach Route
|
Sand Point to Rialto Beach Trailhead
|
17.2 miles
|
There is no target sign on the headland south of Cedar Creek (North side of the headland).
Water sources are low flow/stagnant. At last report, Ellen Creek was not running to the ocean, so hikers should look for the Ellen Creek sign to identify the beginning of the backpacking area.
Chlorine and iodine do not effectively purify coastal water for human consumption.
No pets, use of weapons or wheeled devices.
|
|
|
Ozette Loop Trail
|
Ozette Trailhead to Cape Alava, to Sand Point and return
|
9.3 miles
|
All of the signs on the loop have been replaced, including trailheads and overland trails. Approximately a dozen boards are rotten and broken on boardwalk to Sand Point- none creating serious problem. Some of the new boards are markedly thicker than others and have created tripping hazards. Use caution on boardwalks; they are very slippery when wet and some boards are missing.
Two down trees on the boardwalk trail from Sand Point to the Ozette Ranger Station.
There is 1 tree down on the access trail to Wish Creek.
Water is difficult to access at Sand Point. Use the trail near the southern pit toilet to access water. Wish Creek is flowing very slow or is stagnant. Chlorine and iodine do not effectively purify coastal water for human consumption.
Ozette River ford can be hazardous at high tide and/or after heavy rain. It is recommended to ford when the tide is below 2 feet.
Closed to stock.
No pets, use of weapons or wheeled devices.
|
|
|
Ericsons Bay Primitive Trail
|
South Sand Point Trailhead to Ericsons Bay
|
2.0 miles
|
As of 5/6/2019, several down trees with easy walk-arounds. The trail is muddy in places but generally easy to follow.
Use caution on boardwalks; they are very slippery when wet and some boards are missing.
Closed to stock.
No pets, use of weapons or wheeled devices.
|
|
|
South Coast
|
|
|
Description
|
|
Conditions
|
Date
|
|
Second Beach Trail
|
Trailhead to Second Beach |
0.7 miles
|
Some erosion near steep/downhill section of trail before the beach - use caution.
Beach logs at the end of the trail can be difficult and slippery to cross and trail can become muddy and slippery with precipitation.
The first toilet is on the north end of the beach and can be accessed from the main trail. Look for orange flagging/tape indicating its location.
Closed to stock.
No pets, use of weapons or wheeled devices.
|
7/20/2019 |
|
Third Beach Trail
|
Trailhead to Third Beach |
1.4 miles
|
Closed to stock.
As of 7/4/2019, one 10 foot section of trail is washed out just before the beach. It could be slick and hazardous in rainy conditions.
Toilet is on the south side of the creek; it is flagged with orange tape but can be hard to spot.
No pets, use of weapons or wheeled devices.
|
7/20/2019
|
|
South Coast Beach Route
|
Third Beach to Oil City
|
15.3 miles
|
Always use the Taylor Point Overland Trail. It is impossible to travel on the beach around Taylor Point.
As of 7/20/2019, overland routes at Third Beach and Scott Bluff are reported to be steep and exposed. Rope and ladders are up to assist hikers, but are not maintained by the park - use caution when navigating around headlands!
A dead whale is decomposing near Strawberry Point. At last report the smell was minimal.
Always use the overland trail between Mosquito Creek and Jefferson Cove; the beach access trail just north of Hoh Head no longer exists. Trail can be very strenuous for some hikers. The trail currently has multiple downed trees, washouts, and eroded areas.
The headland between Jefferson Cove and the mouth of the Hoh River requires a 2' or less tide to pass.
Camping at Jefferson Cove may not be possible during high tides or surf.
Beach access to/from the Oil City trailhead from the Hoh River mouth can be cut off at high tide and/or when the river is in flood stage. Always carry a tide chart and check the weather forecast!
During winter, the coast south of Third Beach is only recommended for experienced backpackers due to difficult bluff climbs, deep mud and high streamflow levels; stream crossings especially at Goodman and Mosquito Creek may be difficult even during low tides.
Closed to stock.
No pets, use of weapons, or wheeled devices.
|
7/20/2019
|
|
Oil City Trail
|
Hoh River Bank to Trailhead at Oil City |
0.6 miles
|
Campsites are limited on the coast at the mouth of the Hoh River.
Trail has several downed trees but is in overall good condition.
A dead whale was reported just north of the Hoh River mouth in late May.
Beach access/exit at the mouth of the Hoh River is cut off at high tide or when the river is at flood stage in winter. Always carry a tide chart check the weather forecast!
Closed to stock.
No pets, use of weapons or wheeled devices.
|
7/20/2019
|
|