This trail was the most technically difficult trail I've ever done. However, I've only done pretty easy navigable hikes posing few dangerous situations until now. The trail starts out mellow, following the Marymere Falls (FYI-go to the Falls first if you plan on tackling both the Storm King summit and the Falls), then it branches out to the beginning of the Storm King trail with a sign, and a big erratic. From there, the trail starts steep, and rarely gives a break in between switchbacks. You'll eventually hit the first extremely exposed view of Lake Crescent, but it doesn't end there. You'll hike in a circle going up a small knob, then the fun begins. The trail becomes exposed, extremely rocky, and a cliff to your right side. Most people end their hike before the ropes. My husband and I braved the vertical trail past the maintained trail, and pulled our weight up on the ropes. There are three sections of ropes at a very short distance. Then after the third rope, turn left (NOT RIGHT), and do some light climbing until you hit the actual summit. Advice: when going down the ropes on your way back, either walk backwards or sideways, and don't let the rope slide on your hands. Use extra caution when going down on the third rope. It's loose, more steep, and gravity can go against you.

Beautiful day for a hike! Started a little after ten in overcast weather, which was nice because this trail is a thigh burner. You are covered by trees most of the way going from switch back to switch back. Once your close you get a taste of the view to the left but keep pushing. You end up breaking out of the trees and walking along a ridge line then come the rope sections. You don't need them but they do help tremendously especially on the way down. There are three sections of rope then you are at the summit. Or 'false summit'. I know from my friend that if you break to the right after the last rope you can head to the actual real summit of Storm King but it is a scramble and we didn't ehad that way. Instead we just enjoyed the views, had a beer and took a lot of photos. There were Gray Jays near buy that insisted on hanging around us, haha. The sun came out and it was gorgeous. You can see Vancouver Island and all of Lake Crescent with it's gorgeous deep blue. On the way down we say more people on the way up so I am glad we finished by the time they had come. But absolutely loved this hike!

This is a real thigh burner that is worth the work. The views of the lake are amazing. The trail is steep the entire way and a good hiking stick(s) is recommended to help take some strain off the joints. The hike will get you breathing heavy on the way up and breaks might be necessary. The day we went their was a school field trip and lots of people. The viewpoint was a little crowded but you could still find a spot to take in the views. Good shoes are a must for the way down due to the steep grade. The hike took about 1.45 to get to the view point. Another 10 will get you to the area of the trail that is not maintained. The trail gets very treacherous at this point and is not recommended for kids or people who are afraid of heights and those who are not in good physical condition.

This trail is steep the whole way. Near the top, you will have to utilize ropes a good samaritan put on some trees to traverse the especially steep slopes. The views are great, the hike is relatively short and sweet, enjoy!

Excellent hike! A series of ropes (three total) help you get to the summit, which offers beautiful views. Worth the precipitous scramble up a rock face!