
Field trip: Introduction to Backpacking
Intro to Backpacking Field Trip - Enchanted Valley
Preference to Tacoma Branch Introduction to Backpacking Students. Trip will open to all Mountaineers based on availability on April 28.
- Fri, May 30, 2025 — Sun, Jun 1, 2025
- Tacoma Hiking & Backpacking Committee
- Backpacking
- Adults
- Moderate
- Moderate
- Mileage: 26.5 mi
- Elevation Gain: 2,700 ft
- Pace: 1.8-2.2 mph
- 4 (4 capacity)
- FULL (2 capacity)
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
Preference to Tacoma Branch Introduction to Backpacking Students. Trip will open to all Mountaineers based on availability on April 28.
I have heard about Enchanted Valley over the the past couple years from backpackers who have been able to spot bear and elk, seen multiple waterfalls and who have raved about the incredible views along the way. This will be my first time (permits pending), and I'm excited to share it with others.
We will be moving 8-10 miles each day with a pack, so if you are interested in coming along, please ensure you are fit enough while carrying a pack.
Day 1: Group to meet up at 9 am. Hike from Graves Creek Campground to Pyrites Creek Campground (10 miles/1500' gain).
Day 2: Day hike from Pyrites to the Enchanted Valley and back to Pyrites for second night (8 miles RT/1000' gain and loss).
Day 3: Break up camp. Hike from Pyrites Creek Campground back to Graves Creek TH (10 miles/1500' loss)
Permit cost: $16/person
Graves Creek Trailhead at 9am
From US-101 38 miles north of Hoquiam, turn east onto South Shore Road. Drive 12.9 miles, bear right and continue 6.2 miles to the road's end and the Grave's Creek Trailhead (600 ft).
Enchanted Valley
-
Green Trails Mt Christie No. 166
Green Trails Mt Steel No. 167
Trails Illustrated Olympic National Park
Custom Correct Quinault-Colonel Bob
Custom Correct Enchanted Valley - Skokomish
Custom Correct Brothers - Mt Anderson - See full route/place details.
Required Equipment
To be discussed at lecture for Introduction to Backpacking course students.
The Ten Essentials plus overnight gear which may include:
⦁ Tent with footprint/ground tarp
⦁ Stove and fuel
⦁ Sleeping bag
⦁ Sleeping pad
⦁ Water filter
⦁ Bear canister mandatory
⦁ Cooking pot/pan with plate and utensils
⦁ Toilet paper and shovel or blue bag to deal with waste