The best walks and hikes in Clallam County

Yes, there are many options for families and beginners. The Sol Duc Falls Trail is a very popular, short walk through an old-growth forest to a picturesque waterfall. Another excellent choice is the Madison Falls Trail, which is a short, paved path leading to a beautiful waterfall, making it accessible for all ages and abilities.

Clallam County is famous for its waterfalls. Besides the well-known Marymere Falls, you can explore the lush Sol Duc Valley to see the impressive Sol Duc Falls. For a very accessible option, the paved trail to Madison Falls near the Elwha River entrance of Olympic National Park is a great choice.

Dog access varies. While dogs are generally not permitted on trails within Olympic National Park, there are some exceptions and great alternatives. The Spruce Railroad Trail along Lake Crescent is a notable dog-friendly trail inside the park. Outside the park, many county parks like Salt Creek Recreation Area offer trails with coastal views where leashed dogs are welcome.

For a strenuous hike with rewarding alpine scenery, the trail to Mount Angeles is an excellent choice. This route involves significant elevation gain and offers panoramic views from the summit. Another challenging option is the demanding backcountry loop that includes the High Divide Trail and Seven Lakes Basin for a multi-day adventure.

Absolutely. The hike to Hole-in-the-Wall from Rialto Beach is a classic coastal walk that leads to a dramatic sea-carved arch. Be sure to check tide tables before you go, as it's only accessible at low tide. For a different experience, the Dungeness Spit offers a long, flat walk on the longest natural sand spit in the country.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the incredible diversity, from the mossy temperate rainforests of the Hoh and Sol Duc valleys to the stunning alpine vistas at Hurricane Ridge and the rugged, wild coastline.

Yes, for many areas. An entrance fee or a National Park Pass is required for any sites within Olympic National Park, such as the Hurricane Ridge, Sol Duc, and Lake Crescent areas. For visiting Cape Flattery, you must purchase a Makah Recreation Permit from the Makah Tribe, as it is on their reservation.

Summer (July to September) generally offers the best weather, with warmer temperatures and less rain, making it ideal for high-elevation hikes like those at Hurricane Ridge. However, spring and fall are also beautiful, with fewer crowds and lush scenery in the rainforests and coastal areas. Winter hiking is possible at lower elevations, but be prepared for rain and check for road closures.

There are over 130 hiking routes to explore across Clallam County on komoot. The trails cover everything from easy coastal walks and accessible forest paths to moderate lakeside loops and difficult mountain ascents within Olympic National Park.

The hike to Lake Angeles is a fantastic moderate option. It's a steady climb through the forest that rewards you with a beautiful subalpine lake. For a slightly different experience, the trail to Deer Lake in the Sol Duc Valley is another great choice, offering a peaceful forest setting.

For breathtaking 360-degree views, the trails in the Hurricane Ridge area are unmatched. The paved Hurricane Hill trail provides panoramic vistas of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. For a quieter but equally stunning alternative, the trails starting from Obstruction Point Trailhead are highly regarded for their epic scenery with fewer people.

Yes, Clallam County is a premier backpacking destination. The High Divide Trail and Seven Lakes Basin Loop is a world-class, strenuous multi-day trek with incredible alpine scenery. Another popular option is the Hoh River Trail, which allows for deep exploration into the temperate rainforest.