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Mount Molly

Hike in the Capitol Forest near Olympia.It's 5.6 miles round trip with 1,150 feet of elevation gain. There are some limited views of the forest and beyond hear the summit. Motorized vehicles are permitted on this trail from May to November, so this hike is best done in winter or early spring.

getting there

Middle Waddell Trailhead

Take the Black Lake Lane Exit off of US-101 and drive south for 4.3 miles. The road becomes 62nd Lane. From there turn left onto Delphi Road, drive 2.2 miles, and turn right onto Waddell Creek Road. At the intersection with Sherman Creek road bear left to stay on Waddell Creek Road. The trailhead is on the right near the Middle Waddell Campground (325 ft).  There is a gate  at the trailhead that is usually locked in the winter—call DNR at 360-825-1631 to see if the gate is open. There are a couple of places a car could park off the road near the trailhead parking lot.

Al Davis Trailhead

An alternative starting point is the Al Davis Trail, with parking near the intersection of  Waddell Crk Rd SW and Sherman Crk Rd SW north of the Middle Waddell Trailhead.

on the trail

from the Middle Waddell Trailhead

5.6 miles round trip, 1,150 feet of elevation gain

Hike the Waddell Basin Trail  north ~1.5 miles to a road. Turn right and look immediately for a side trail to the right. Or continue straight and turn on the less used trail immediately to the left. This area is confusing—navigate it carefully. Hike the trail toward the summit. Once near the summit there is a bootpath to the top.

from the Al Davis Trailhead

3.4 miles round trip, 970 feet of elevation gain

Hike the Al Davis Trail for 0.3 miles to intersection with Waddell Basin West Trail.  Follow Waddell Basin West Trail to the summit.

  • Suitable Activities: Day Hiking
  • Seasons: January, February, March, April, December
  • Weather: View weather forecast
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 5.6 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,149 ft
  • 1,129 ft
Map
  • WA DNR Capitol State Forest
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