Field trip: Introduction to Backpacking
Intro to Backpacking Field Trip - Dosewallips River/Abandoned National Park Road
Overnight Backpacking Field trip
- Sat, May 30, 2026 — Sun, May 31, 2026
- Tacoma Hiking & Backpacking Committee
- Backpacking
- All Who Qualify, Adults
- Moderate, Bikepacking MTB I
- Moderate
- Mileage: 13.0 mi
- Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft
- 6 (6 capacity)
- FULL (2 capacity)
- Mon, Apr 6, 2026 at 8:00 AM
- Mon, Apr 27, 2026
- Thu, May 28, 2026 at 5:00 PM
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
- iCal Google
Enjoy an overnight trip to the abandoned Dosewallips Campground.
Day #1: Dosewallips Road Trailhead to abandoned Dosewallips Campground.
We will meet at Dosewallips Road Trailhead. After brief introductions we will hike west along the river on the abandoned Dosewallips Road. Starting at 500 ft, the road is nearly flat for the first couple miles. At the road washout, we will take the detour on the trail above the river and back down. Along the way we will stop for a snack or lunch. Overall the road gradually climbs up to 1,700 feet at the abandoned Dosewallips Campground 6.5 mi from the trailhead. On the way, the Dosewallips river will be on our side or in hearing distance. We will see some forest, waterfalls, and cross some bridges. At Dosewallips campground, we will set up camp, gather water, chat, enjoy dinner together, and have a relaxing evening. Bring a kindle or a book if you like to read. There is a pivy at the campground but bring your poop kit.
The group has the option to take an alternate day hike from the camp, to Dosewallips Terrace Nature Trail. It is 1.1 mi, 100 ft elevation gain loop trail.
Day #2: Abandoned Dosewallips Campground to Dosewallips Road Trailhead.
We will have a relaxing morning, have breakfast, and pack up. We will then hike back along the road to the trailhead.
No parking permit required. No fees or permit required to camp at the campground.
Bring a bear canister or ursack for food storage. Food locker maybe available.
The Dosewallips River Road Trailhead is here:
Directions: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/dosewallips-river#hike-trailhead-and-map
Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps/dir//47.7413,-123.0474/@47.7413,-123.0474,12z/data=?hl=en
GPS Coordinates: 47.7413, -123.0474
Meet at trailhead 9AM.
Dosewallips River/Abandoned National Park Road
-
Green Trails Olympic Mountains East No. 168S
Green Trails Tyler Peak No. 136
Green Trails The Brothers No. 168
Green Trails Mt Steel No. 167
Custom Correct Gray Wolf - Dosewallips
Custom Correct Buckhorn Wilderness - See full route/place details.
Required Equipment
To be discussed at lecture