I have done a lot hiking and cycling in this area and had seen the sign to Tunnel Creek but until today had never hiked it. I arrived at the trailhead around 9am, hiking a few minutes later. There were two cars in the lot, both appeared to be overnighters given the condensation on the windshields. Several more cars were in the lot when I returned from my hike but by no means crowded.
The trail is typical of many Olympics trails, though less steep than most until you reach the foot bridge over Tunnel Creek. On this very sunny day, the light in the forest was wonderful and I took the opportunity to photograph many small plants and numerous small waterfalls. Mushrooms dotted the trail, in particular two different trees had impressive chicken-of-the-woods mushrooms with their bright orange color lighting up the green forest.
Shortly after the shelter, the trail crosses the bridge over the creek and the steep climbing begins. Eventually you make your way to the first lake (which I discounted as a lake when I first passed it) and then the second, Harrison. Neither was particularly impressive, the former was small and looked quite stagnant, the latter much larger but not very inviting. I paused to take a reflection photo and then carried on to the top.
I reached an upper meadow, set up a small camp for lunch, made some coffee, enjoyed the views of Constance and Rainier, and then hiked down. Only later realizing I had not made it to the end of the trail! Argh!! My lunch spot was such an obvious clearing I thought this was the end of the trail so if you go definitely consult the map (paper or online) and continue on. I now have reason to return to this lovely hike.
All in all I quite enjoyed Tunnel Creek. It wasn't very crowded (saw only a few parties all day and had lunch all to myself for ~30 minutes) and I love the mountain creeks and their abundant small waterfalls. Looking forward to a return trip soon.
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