For a short but challenging climb above the forest of Olympic National Park, Mount Storm King provides incredible panoramic views of Crescent Lake and the surrounding valleys.
The Mount Storm King Trail is about 5 and a half miles. There is an optional but suggested side-trip to Marymere Falls as well. This hike is considered moderate due to the elevation, a quick rope climbing section, and some light rock scrambling at the apex of the hike. This hike took us about 3 hours with some time at the peak to sit and admire the stunning views of Crescent Lake.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Mount Storm King hike, search for the Marymere Falls Trailhead in Olympic National Park, CA or click here.
Directions (old school maps): From Seattle, take Highway 101 north and eventually head west through Port Angeles. The parking lot will be off the main highway once you get into the curving lakeside roads.
Driving Info: This is all part of Highway 101 so the driving is easy, but once you get to the lake there are winding curves to pay attention to.
Time & Weather: We did this hike in November. The weather, like many part of the Pacific Northwest, is variable and can change quickly. We got a few moments of rain and stormy clouds but nothing too bad for hiking.
Gear: Like most PNW hikes, bring layers for warmth and sun and wind protection. Hiking poles are highly recommended for the steep ascent and descent. Gloves may also be useful if you’re worried about scrambling up the rope sections.
Trail Navigation: This trail is easy to follow the entire way. At the very end you have to do some scrambling so just be careful and stay away from the edges.
Water & Food: Bring water and snacks as necessary. This hike, while short, is deep into the park and far away from basic amenities.
Trailhead Info: There is a good sized parking lot that gets you to the trailhead.
Pictures of the Mount Storm King Trail:
Like many Pacific Northwest hikes, this starts off in a lush green forest. Often times it’s rainy and grey which only adds to the mystique of this hike.
Once you ascend out of the forest, climb up some ropes, and scramble so rocks at the peak, you are rewarded with these stunning views of Crescent Lake.
A panoramic view of the lake and peak.
As you descend back down you get a better glimpse into the canyons and rivers below. Clouds began aggregating, and the weather turned sour as we got back to our cars.
It’s suggested to take the side-trip at the bottom of this hike to go see Marymere Falls.
Do you have more time to spend in Olympic National Park? One of the best hikes in Washington is just 90 minutes away, continuing west on Highway 101. The Hoh River Trail is an epic 25 mile journey that takes you through temperate rain forest and ends at the magnificent Blue Glacier.
