West Elwha Trail

getting there

Herrick Road

Drive US-101 east of Port Angeles ~1 mile past Olympic Host Springs Rd and turn left (south) onto Herrick Road. Follow Herrrick road through residential neighborhood to the trailhead (600 ft).

• Because parking is very limited parking  at the Herrick Road Trailhead, it is highly recommended park as few cars there as possible and shuttle from the Madison Falls Trailhead—drive US-101 east of Port Angeles, turn left (south) on Olympic Hot Springs Rd and continue to the  Madison Falls Trailhead. With minimal traffic, it takes about 10-15 minutes to travel between these two trailheads.  

Altair picnic area & campground

Drive US-101 east of Port Angeles and turn left (south) on Olympic Hot Springs Rd. Drive to the  Madison Falls Trailhead (400 ft). From here bike or hike 2.3 miles to the Altair Picnic Area & Campground (400 ft).

notes

• This trail can get muddy in early spring and does have some  downhill and uphill, so trekking poles are recommended.      

• Suitable Activities: Day Hiking
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 5.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 250 ft
• High Point: 600 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