Port Gamble Forest - Bluff Trail

Port Gamble Forest has a lot of biking trails and a few hiking trails on the east side of Highway 104. But pulling off to the west, there's a nice, flat trail on the bluff overlooking Port Gamble Bay.

From the large parking area, head south. An obvious trail descends the face of the bluff to the water, but your trail is less obvious, in the forest. It's narrow, and when leaves are on the ground, may be harder to see. Once you're on it though, its fairly easy to follow.

The entirety of a trail is like a double-ended lollipop. You'll start on one trail, wandering through huge trees, ferns and moss (with, admittedly, the sound of traffic for company - the trail is only a few feet from Highway 104). At any forks, stay to the right.

The final fork links the two trails together, and you're at the other end of the lollipop. About a half mile past the final fork, the trail dead-ends in an open area near a locked gate. Turn around here, and on your way back, take the first right fork you come to.

Thankfully, this half of the trail is just far enough away from the road that the noise fades, providing a more peaceful return to the trailhead. For the most part, the trees obscure clear views of the water, but one spot along the way features a bench and a small fence to lean on and look at the water.

Halfway back, the trail turns abruptly inland, rejoining the other trail for a short while before heading back towards the water. This is a reroute around a slumped section of trail. Erosion can be quite something.

After the reroute, you'll arrive at the bench and gate overlook. If you like, take a short break and enjoy the scenery before finishing your hike to the trailhead.

WTA Pro Tip: If you have time, head into Port Gamble after your hike. Its a small town with a cafe and several textile stores, as well as some charming architecture, great for photographing.