Rhododendrons, old growth, and a river that "talks" to you most of the way. The West Fork Dosewallips River spends much of its time on this hike hidden, flowing through a deep narrow canyon. But its constant commotion can continuously be heard through the surrounding primeval forest. At times it bellows, at times it serenades, but it's always a trailside companion. At Big Timber Camp the river swings by, allowing the two of you to become better acquainted.

This is a delightful hike on gentle terrain-perfect for introducing neophytes to the splendors of the Olympic backcountry or as an early season warm-up. Amble this way in June and see Washington's state flower, the showy Pacific rhododendron, at its finest.

Start on the Dosewallips River Trail, a major portal to Olympic National Park's vast wilderness interior. Immediately cross Station Creek as it rushes down from Mount Constance. Reach a junction with the Dosewallips Terrace Nature Trail, which heads down to the river and loops back to the main trail in 0.75 mile-a nice variation for the return.

Through dry Douglas-fir forest garnished with salal and rhododendrons, the trail winds above the river. Elk trails periodically pierce the route. These well-worn paths attest to the abundant presence of these majestic beasts. At 1.4 miles come to a junction. Bear left (signed "Anderson Pass"), dropping 100 feet to the Dose Forks Campground and a sturdy bridge over the glacier-silt-clouded Dosewallips River.

Briefly climbing, the way contours around a steep slope, offering a view to the confluence of the Dosewallips and its West Fork. At 2.4 miles reach a bridge that spans a deep slot canyon; the West Fork thunders below. Now high above the west bank of the West Fork, the trail ascends slopes of stilted conifers and lush rhodies. After reaching a bench (elev. 2400 ft) several hundred feet above the river, the trail slowly descends to Big Timber Camp, set amid big boulders and, yes, big timber, sort of. But the real treat is that this spot sits along the river.