We hiked both the Staircase Rapids Loop and the Four River trail. The Staircase Rapids trail is in excellent shape, and was mostly dry, with one slightly muddy section. The water level for the North Fork Skokomish River is pretty low, and many of the smaller creek beds are completely dry.
The Four Stream trail, in contrast with Staircase Rapids, isn't well-maintained. It's overgrown in places, and there were a few downed logs across the trail, although all were passable. The trail is rougher here, with more rocks, roots, and bumpy terrain. We hiked about a mile past Staircase Rapids, to the confluence where Four Stream meets the North Fork Skokomish River. It's a pretty spot, but I think the best scenery is along the Staircase Rapids Loop. The Four River trail is a nice option if you want to lengthen your hike (and it certainly sees fewer hikers than the Staircase Rapids Loop), but if you only go as far as Staircase Rapids, you'll still see the highlights of this beautiful area.
Staircase Rapids is a popular trail, but it wasn't too crowded, especially considering we visited on a Sunday afternoon. That may have been due to the cloudy weather -- ideal hiking weather, if you ask me. This is a wonderful trail for families, especially if the weather is warm enough for playing in the river. Rocky riverside beaches are easy to access from the trail, and in many places the water is calm and quiet. The suspension bridge is also a high point. All in all, it's an ideal hike for anyone seeking an easy, short hike that showcases the beauty of the Olympic Peninsula's forest and rivers.
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