Duckabush River — Saturday, May. 23, 1998

Olympic Peninsula > Hood Canal

Started Saturday 5/23/98 morning. The road leading to the trail is in fine condition. The ranger at Hood Canal Ranger Station warned about breakins; I left the car unlocked and had no problems. By 11:30 AM the trail register had about twelve parties signed in for the day, ten of which indicated a plan to stay at Five Mile Camp. Little Hump is easy, it's done before you know it. Big Hump is a pain in the neck (or, more accurately, the quads) but you get a nice view of St. Peter's Dome. After Big Hump there's no more big gain but it would be a mistake to say it flattens out - there's plenty of up and down along the river bank. There were a lot of people at Five Mile Camp so don't expect any privacy (or even a site) if you plan to go there. The trail is generally good but there are a fair number of muddy patches and a handful of streams to ford. This got worse on Sunday because it rained. Good campsite at about 7mi, on the Park side. On the way back, Big Hump is much easier, but Little Hump is harder. Overall an easy, enjoyable hike. In the river valley you can grab a peek at The Brothers.