Big trees, a big river, and a big chance of seeing some big elk if you venture far enough up this well-built and well-maintained trail. You won't be alone on this popular path; mountain bikers and equestrians like it too. But if you saunter during the week or in the quiet months of the year, only the roar of the river will interrupt the silence.

The South Fork Skokomish River Trail No. 873 immediately gets down to business, making a steep little climb of about 300 feet. Rounding a high bluff above the roaring river below, the trail enters a magnificent old-growth grove of Doug-firs, some over five hundred years old. In 0.4 mile and nearing the crest of the bluff, a spur trail heads right to the Le Bar Creek Horse Camp. Stay on the path left to a series of short, steep switchbacks, dropping back to the valley floor. After hopping across a side creek (at 1 mile) you'll traverse a beautiful glade of mossy maples and alders.

More old fir giants are soon encountered, as well as a few stumps of cedar giants that were sent to the mills many years ago. At 2 miles pass a campsite, site of an old ranger guardhouse. A half mile farther you may get your feet wet crossing a side creek in a large outwash. The next creek crossing (at 3 mile), however, comes with a nice bridge.

Venturing slightly away from the river you'll pass some old slides and then drop back again toward the roaring waterway and more old growth. Encounter several more creek crossings, a nice cascade, and then at 4.3 miles come to a junction. The trail right leads to FR 2355-100. The short spur left leads to the former site of Camp Comfort. Floods in December of 2007 washed away much of the open river bank here. Contemplate the forces of nature while you assess the damage to this favorite spot of many a day tripper and over-nighter alike.

If you have any energy left, continue along the trail for another 0.75 mile to an incredible overlook of the river on a bluff high above a big bend.

Note from WTA user: If you should consider hiking beyond the scenic overlook to the ford across the river at ~9.0 miles be prepared for serious bushwacking. There are multiple blowdowns, massive trail washouts, and generally difficult hiking or mountain biking conditions.