Last updated: June 28, 2021
Thing to Do
Kwis Kwis Trail
Enjoy a hike in the beautiful Sitka Spruce Temperate Rainforest. The Kwis Kwis Trail runs parallel to the Fort to Sea Trail and can be combined with the Fort to Sea Trail to make a variety of lengths of loops. Portions of the trail are along ponds with a great diversity of aquatic and avian wildlife.
The Kwis Kwis Trail makes a great day hike if you have prepared well. There are sections of the trail that are steep, going both uphill and downhill, sections of the trail that can be slick and muddy. Know before you go what the weather will be like, where you are going, and what connection you will be taking for your return hike. There is a bathroom at the trail head and one towards the end of the Kwis Kwis Extension (3.6 miles), but there are no water fountains, so make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks. Please also plan on packing out anything you pack in as there are no trash cans along the way. Check out our safety page for more tips to prepare for your hike, and stop in at the visitor center before you go to pay the entrance fee, grab a trail map and check in with the ranger regarding any trail closures or dangerous conditions.
The Kwis Kwis Trail makes a great day hike if you have prepared well. There are sections of the trail that are steep, going both uphill and downhill, sections of the trail that can be slick and muddy. Know before you go what the weather will be like, where you are going, and what connection you will be taking for your return hike. There is a bathroom at the trail head and one towards the end of the Kwis Kwis Extension (3.6 miles), but there are no water fountains, so make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks. Please also plan on packing out anything you pack in as there are no trash cans along the way. Check out our safety page for more tips to prepare for your hike, and stop in at the visitor center before you go to pay the entrance fee, grab a trail map and check in with the ranger regarding any trail closures or dangerous conditions.
Details
Duration
1-5 Hours
Duration will depend heavily on if an where you connect back to the Fort to Sea and if you continue on to the Kwis Kwis Extension.
Activity
Hiking
Moderate 3.6 mile trail that can be combined with the Fort to Sea trail to form various loops from 2.7 miles long to 6.5 miles long.
2.7 miles - Fort to Sea west to 1st Kwis Kwis connector to Kwis Kwis to the Fort to Sea Trailhead.
5.3 miles - Fort to Sea west to 2nd Kwis Kwis connector (below Clatsop Ridge Overlook) to take Kwis Kwis to Trailhead.
6.5 miles - Fort to Sea west to Kwis Kwis Extension to Kwis Kwis to Trailhead.
Kwis Kwis connectors and extensions will always be on the right.
Trail is steep in areas both uphill and downhill and can be muddy.
2.7 miles - Fort to Sea west to 1st Kwis Kwis connector to Kwis Kwis to the Fort to Sea Trailhead.
5.3 miles - Fort to Sea west to 2nd Kwis Kwis connector (below Clatsop Ridge Overlook) to take Kwis Kwis to Trailhead.
6.5 miles - Fort to Sea west to Kwis Kwis Extension to Kwis Kwis to Trailhead.
Kwis Kwis connectors and extensions will always be on the right.
Trail is steep in areas both uphill and downhill and can be muddy.
Age(s)
All ages, minors should be accompanied by adults.
Pets Allowed
Yes
Your leashed dogs are welcome on the trail, please pick up after them.
Activity Fee
Yes
The entrance fee can be paid at the visitor center prior to departing. Your entrance fees go toward maintaining and improving the trails.
Location
92343 Fort Clatsop Rd.
The Kwis Kwis Trail can be accessed from the trailhead parking lot (very limited spaces) just south of the Fort Clatsop Visitor Center or from the picnic area at the Fort Clatsop Visitor Center. If accessing from the Fort Clatsop Visitor Center, factor in an additional .9 miles round trip.
Please note the gates for parking at the Fort Clatsop Visitor Center close at 5 p.m. in the winter and 6 p.m. in the summer. If you anticipate a return close to that time or after, plan to park at the trailhead or at Netul Landing and hike up the Netul River trail which will add 2.5 miles to your round trip.
Please note the gates for parking at the Fort Clatsop Visitor Center close at 5 p.m. in the winter and 6 p.m. in the summer. If you anticipate a return close to that time or after, plan to park at the trailhead or at Netul Landing and hike up the Netul River trail which will add 2.5 miles to your round trip.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Trails tend to be more muddy and can be flooded in areas during the winter and spring. If you are planning a hike during those times please also check wind and weather advisories. It is not advisable to utilize any trails at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park during periods of high wind. Downed trees are common and may make the trail difficult or impossible to pass.
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
Trails are open from dawn to dusk. The visitor center parking lot is gated, and closes at 5 p.m. in the winter and 6 p.m. in the summer. If you aren't sure you can make it back by that time it is best to park in the lot for the trailhead just south of the visitor center lot (look for the parking symbol on the map).
Accessibility Information
Kwis Kwis Trail + Extension
- Substrates - 50% compacted ¾” gravel, 30% compacted dirt, 20% boardwalk
- Steep slope - Yes
- Narrow section of path - 32 inches
- Benches/rest areas: No
- Potential hazards: Muddy, flooded, trail washing out, high winds, downed trees, slick boardwalks
Kwis Kwis Connector
- Substrates - 100% compacted ¾” gravel
- Steep slope - No
- Narrow section of path: 48 inches
- Benches/rest areas: No
- Potential hazards: Muddy, flooded, trail washing out, high winds, downed trees, tree roots, tree roots
The Kwis Kwis Trail is not designated as wheelchair-accessible. For specific inquiries please email the Lewis and Clark NHP Accessibility Contact or call (503)861-2471.
Dennis Adams