Rainshadow Nature Trail
This is a short hike. It starts up hill, then levels out at the top of Blue Mountain. There are so many views surrounding you- towns, the strait, island, mountain ranges, river valleys. You'll also see wildflowers and sightings of deer and wild rabbits.
The drive up to the Deer Park campground/Blue Mountain is easy. After 9 miles of paved road, it turns into a dirt, mostly single car lane road. There are turn offs, for oncoming vehicles. Because the road is narrow, this area is only open in the summer.
Driving Directions:
Headed west on Hwy 101 towards Port Angeles, turn left at Deer Park Rd. Travel along the paved road, and continue along the dirt road. Once you reach the dirt road, you will be within the National Park boundaries. It is 18 miles from Hwy 101 to the trailhead. Recent Trip Reports
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Day hike
Features:
Wildflowers blooming
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Bugs
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My friend Chris and I decided to head up to the top of Blue Mountain/Deer Park campground. The sun was...
My friend Chris and I decided to head up to the top of Blue Mountain/Deer Park campground. The sun was out most of the day, but the clouds were slowly creeping across the mountains, toward us. Despite the threat of clouds, we headed up anyways, hoping to do this short trail, and watch the sunset.
Boy were we surprised when we got there. 30 seconds after closing the car door, the first clap of thunder billowed across the mountain range. Despite the threat of lightnening, we wandered around. However, the pestering ways of the swarming mosquitoes... that was quite annoying. The trail is in great condition. At the trailhead, it gives a pamphlet to read at a specified number spot on the trail. It simply tells you about the area, how it is shaped, what we're looking at, and etc. The views were magnificent. We watched the storm brew over the ridges, making its way over Port Angeles, Sequim, and Port Townsend. Luckily, it held off enough to the west to watch the sunset. On the top of Blue Mountain, the cascades, san juan islands, vancouver island, and so much more... they are all within your views. To the south of us, was Graywolf Ridge, The needles, and southwest, Hurricane ridge. Headed down, we watched the sun disappear. Even though the road up is kind of scary to drive, the views from the top is worth it! |
South side of the mountain, on the trail
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