Quinault River #5

If you'd like to hike from North Fork to Low Divide in ONP (Olympic National Park), you can find access to the trailhead off Hwy 101. From there you can drive around Quinault Lake by either the North Shore Drive or the South Shore Drive. The Ranger Station on South Shore is open year round, while the North Shore Station is only open in the summer. These are both scenic drives, with the pavement ending before the trailhead, while still accessable by non 4x4 vehicles. Camping in the backcountry requires an overnight permit, and registration can be done at either of the Ranger Stations or at the trailhead. The distance from North Fork to Low Divide is 16 miles, so this makes for a great 2 to 4 day hike (there and back), depending on your ability. Camping sites are located frequently on the trail, almost too frequently, except for the points between Trapper Shelter and 12 Mile Camp, a 4 mile stretch located about where I would want to stop for the night on a three day hike (averaging 10 miles/day). The trail is well maintained, thanks to all the help. Early on in the hike, I lost the trail, do to a few forks at a dry creek bed. This was before I reached Wolf Bar Camp. I quickly found my way again and was not disappointed. The stretch from the parking lot, or North Fork, to Wolf Bar Camp, is 2.5 miles and is very heavily traveled, even early on in the year. Once beyond Wolf Bar Camp, you will find solitude to your liking. The trail follows the Quinault River valley, and a typical wind blows through the region, warm or cold depending on the conditions. The trail is rated as moderate. Inexperienced hikers/backpackers who would like a little challenge from the easier trails would find this an excellent place to begin. There are some ups and downs. At this time of the year (April), dont expect to get past 12 Mile Camp without snow gear, either snowshoes or crampons, and probably both. In the higher elevations there are some near to impassable snow falls without proper gear. Be sure to bring an ice axe for safety. Bear warnings are posted at the Ranger Stations, and I did see a bear track in the snow. The flora and fauna are excellent, as is the rest of ONP. There are a number of shallow stream crossings, as well as some of the best waterfalls anywhere in the country. Sections of the trail have well constructed foot bridges, with many scenic views of running waters. There is a log crossing at Elip Creek that will challenge you. If you are only considering a day hike, I would encourage you to press on beyond Wolf Bar Camp, and find either Wild Rose Creek or Elip Creek a great turn around point!