I made a loop starting at the Lower Big Quilcene Trailhead, following this trail for about 3 miles to the Notch Pass Trail (about 5 miles), and then walking the road back (4 miles) to make a loop that was just over 12 miles.
The Lower Big Quilcene Trailhead was a lot busier than I expected from previous trip reports. All the designated spots at the trailhead itself were taken but there was still parking available along the road. I discovered one explanation for the crowds during my road hike - nearly every car that passed me on the way out had a Christmas tree on top. Not sure how popular this trail is when it's not the weekend after Thanksgiving.
The first 3 miles of the Lower Big Quilcene trail are an easy stroll on a wide and well maintained trail that crosses the river several times. Just after the camping area about 3 miles in, the trail becomes a bit rougher. Right at this spot is the Notch Pass junction. Though I saw quite a few people on the Lower Big Quilcene, I passed no one at all once I turned onto the Notch Pass Trail.
The Notch Pass Trail going east climbs up through an idyllic rainforest bordering the Big Quilcene River with lots of criss-crossing streams up over a paved Forest Road to Notch Pass, which is marked by a gravel road. There were just a few patches of snow at the top of the pass. The trail then descended through a misty forest via switchbacks.
Even though the Notch Pass Trail was a quiet hike, the trail was in very good shape, with signs of recent maintenance on the eastern approach to the pass.
With the exception of the last 3 miles of the road portion which was unfortunately on a busier forest road, this was a pleasant, lower elevation loop hike great for a drippy, late fall day.
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