Kloshe Nanitch — Monday, Jun. 18, 2018

There are times when this world we live in really brings me down. Vandalism is inexcusable. Why is it that people need to destroy nice things for no apparent gain to themselves? Kloshe Nanitch was a D-6 Cupola type fire lookout. It was built by the Forest Service in 1917, served as an advanced warning station during WWII. Despite being destroyed in the 60s a replica was constructed in 1995. Sadly, in 2012, it was removed due to ongoing vandalism issues.

The views remain however, and they are grand. The Sol Duc River below and the snow clad mountains of the Olmpics, along with miles and miles of rolling green carpet.

We cheated in our approach to summiting Kloshe Nanitch and it's neighbor, North Point. The trail leaves the valley floor gaining 2200' to the ridge line. It has two short spurs going to each of the summits (Kloshe Nanitch and North Point). As I said, we cheated. FS road 3040 departs from the Snider Work Center on an unmarked road. It is steep, windy, and narrow. This road is no joke although virtually any car could make it to the top. It has many long sections of steep grades with absolutely no room to pass an oncoming car. Be forewarned:)

From the small parking area at KN the walk up to the platform (where the lookout sat) is suitable for most anybody. The views are grand and there were many wildflowers. There is even a vault toilet and picnic table. The "loop" trail departs from this lot as well. It is infrequently used but in great shape. Initially it drops ~250' through cliffs, flowers, and stunted trees. At a junction turn left onto what is now signed as the 'Lookout Loop' trail. This very infrequently used trail contours eastward about 3/4 of a mile. A left hand spur takes you up to North Point. This old fire lookout has been repurposed as a communications tower building. The views are not good as the trees have grown back up. One can return the way you came or make a loop by taking the well graded road back to your car.