Wagonwheel Lake & Copper Mountain

getting there

Drive US-101 to Hoodsport and turn west onto SR-119. Continue 9.3 miles to an intersection, turn left and drive 1.7 miles where the road becomes Forest Road 24. In another 2.7 miles, turn right and continue 1.2 miles to the Staircase Ranger Station and trailhead (875 ft).

on the trail

5.8 miles round trip, 3,175 feet of elevation gain, 4,050 ft high point
Difficulty: Moderate

Hike from the Staircase Ranger Station to Wagonwheel Lake. Climbing 3over 3,000 feet in less than 3 miles, this is one of Olympic Nation Park's steepest trails. If you have extra energy, hike the boot path northeast from the lake to Silver Snag Hill, the knob at 4,755 ft for some good views.

Approach & Ascent

8.0 miles round trip, 4,500 feet of elecation gain, 5,425 ft high point
difficulty: Strenuous 3, technical 3, winter scramble

Hike to Wagonwheel Lake. Head south ascending a ridge or gullies to 4,600 ft and then traverse southeast for 0.5 mile to the basin north of the summit. Ascend south to the summit.

• Suitable Activities: Day Hiking, Scrambling
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast
• Avalanche Terrain Rating Simple View avalanche forecast.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 6.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 3,175 ft
• High Point: 4,050 ft

• Land Manager: Olympic National Park
• Parking Permit Required: National Park Entrance Fee
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12