Lower Gray Wolf River

As always we began our hike at the former TH which is a few yards after the crossing of the Gray Wolf River on FS Road 2870. There is a large parking area on the left. One gains more elevation by starting here, but the forest walk through old growth hemlock, cedars and firs is beautiful! The trail is in excellent condition. At 2 miles we turn left at the junction with the trail from the new TH. In about 1/2 mile you reach the river and follow it for perhaps another 1/2 mile before beginning the climb of a steep hillside to the high point of the trail which is 3450 feet and 1050 ft from the old TH. In this section there were 2 easily crossed trees across the trail. We began to descend to the river and soon came to a 24 " tree across the trail. Bob easily crossed it, but wimpy me with my short legs and the steep downhill to my left decided this should be our turn around point since we had only 2 hours of day light left! We returned to the river where we had a late lunch and a bald eagle sighting! We had snow at the beginning of our hike and "off and on" throughout the day making for a winter wonderland. There were 1-2 " of snow in the open areas. This is one of our favorite winter hikes and is enjoyable in any kind of weather! Directions to the TH are accurate in Craig Romano's book, "Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula".