Big Creek — Tuesday, Apr. 13, 2021

A nicely shaded year-round forested hike approximately 4.8-mile loop long with river views and peekaboo glimpses of Mt. Ellinore and Mt. Washington’s snowy mountain peaks. Until a bit later in the season, the campground is closed so consider arriving early (after a mandatory stop at Hoodsport coffee) to get one of the limited parking spots just outside the closed gate. The well-signed Upper Big Creek loop trail (#827/827.1) starts adjacent to the vault facilities (also closed) and allows the hiker to ascend (approx. 1112') in either direction. Many find the counter clockwise route a bit steeper but more pleasant with river sounds and views along the way. The trail tread is dry with no obstructions and, on our hike the Trillium were in full bloom. Kudos to trail maintenance teams who have really improved the drainage and footing as well as repairing bridges and benches along the way. Just before you cross the bridge over Big Creek there is a terrific lunch spot with a bench, a lovely side stream flowing into Big Creek and perhaps a bit of late morning sun? As you pass the top of the loop over the bridge and past the signage for the Mt. Ellinor connector trail (#827.2) the trail becomes an easy gradual descent back to the campground.