Open Backpack - Royal Lake

This will be a moderately paced trip along the Upper Dungeness trail to the Royal Lake Group Campsite.  After setting up camp there will be the option to explore further to Upper Royal Basin or just relax in camp.

Here is a description of the trail:  Royal Basin - Royal Lake — Washington Trails Association (wta.org)

Our goals will be to enjoy the trail, views, and any wildlife we may see.

 *Leaders Permission Required*.  Participants should have recent backpacking experience with trips of 8+ miles with at least 2500 feet of gain.  Please make sure that the distance, elevation gain and pace are suitable for you.  By registering for the hike, you are committing yourself to reimburse the leader $9 for ONP wilderness campsite fees ($8 per night per person + $1 reservation fee).  You will also need a National Park Pass to enter the Park.  Fees are payable to the leader by cash, Venmo or Paypal at the time of registration and will only be refunded if your space is filled.

It is important to me to have participants who enjoy hiking in a group and have patience for others on the trip.

All campsites have privies.  Bear canisters are required.  No fires permitted.

We will hike at a moderate 1.5- 2 mph pace, taking frequent breaks. We will stop for an extended lunch (~20 minutes). We will hike 7.2 miles to Royal Lake Group Camp aiming to reach camp by 3pm; After a rest (and a swim!) we can go another 3/4 mile to the Upper Basin.   Monday, we plan to break camp by 9am to hike back out and arrive back at the trailhead Monday by 2pm. 

My style:  I consider hiking as nature therapy and love to revel in the beauty of nature with frequent stops to look at flowers, trees and views.  Picking berries and swimming in Alpine Lakes are at the top of my list.   In the evenings I like to sit around a communal area and play games. If these sound like experiences you would enjoy, I’d love your company!

Meet at the Upper Dungeness Trailhead at 9:00 am. We will aim to start hiking by 9:30.

From Blyn head towards Sequim on 101. In 1.7 miles take a left onto Louella Road. Take Louella 0.9 miles to its end at the intersection with Palo Alto Road and turn left on Palo Alto. Follow Palo Alto for 5.8 miles and turn right onto Forest Road 2880. This gravel road winds steeply down for 0.9 miles until you cross the bridge over the Dungeness River and drive past the Dungeness Forks Campground. In another 0.9 miles, you arrive at an intersection. Go straight (not right) on what is now Forest Road 2870. In another 2.5 miles bear right at an intersection to stay on 2870. In another 4.9 miles, take the left fork to stay on 2870. In 1.6 miles, you will again cross the Dungeness River and be at the sizable trailhead parking lot. Trailhead amenities include picnic table and vault toilet.

Northwest Forest or National Parks pass is required for all vehicles parked at the trailhead. Passes and Permits for Hiking — Washington Trails Association (wta.org)

Please note that the drive can take up to four hours or more from Seattle, depending on where you are starting.  You have the option to drive on the morning of the trip or stay somewhere in the area (campsite or hotel) on the night before.  There will be the option for carpooling.