13. STAIRCASE RAPIDS TRAIL

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK

The hike to Staircase Rapids is a heck of a lot easier today than it was in1890 when Lieutenant Joseph O’Neil accompanied by a group of scientistsled an Army expedition here on their way across the Olympics. They cut amule trail up the North Fork of the Skokomish to help transport suppliesto base camps along the way. Among the many findings that O’Neil’s partywould report was a realization that this wild area deserved to be protected asa national park.

From the main parking area walk past the ranger station and cross the North Fork Skokomish on a solid bridge. Then hit the trail and start following a section of the original O’Neil Mule Trail. Interpretive signs along the way shed more light on the O’Neil Expedition and area’s fascinating geology. Pass the Shady Lane Trail (a great side trip) and a side trail leading to an incredibly large western cedar windfall.

The main trail gently climbs coming upon the frothy river. Pass big boulders and the roaring and crashing Staircase Rapids and reach a junction. The trail straight ahead leads to Four Stream (another great side trip).

The loop continues right to a large sturdy suspension bridge spanning the wild waterway. Cross the river and reach the North Fork Skokomish River Trail. Then turn right and hike down river on the wide well-traveled trail through lush riparian flats.

Pass giant maples, firs, and cedars along the way. After crossing fanning Slate Creek the way climbs a tad to bypass a large slide along the river. It then returns to the large parking area near the ranger station.

Highlights: Series of thundering rapids on North Fork Skokomish River Magnificent old-growth forest Part of Colonel O’Neil’s historic cross-Olympic hike Distance: 2.1 miles round trip loop Elevation gain: 225 feet Difficulty: Easy Permits: National Park entry fee or Interagency Pass Hiking Season: Year round Notes: Staircase access road is closed in winter; park at picnic area and hike one mile up road. Kid-Friendly: Yes Dog-Friendly: Prohibited Trailhead Amenities: Ranger Station, campground, privies, water, picnic tables Trailhead GPS waypoint: N47 30.931 W123 19.767 Contact: Olympic National Park, Wilderness Information Center; www.nps.gov/olym Maps: Green Trails Olympic Mountains East 168S Trailhead Directions: From Shelton, travel north on US 101 for 15 miles to Hoodsport. Turn left onto SR 119 and proceed for 9.3 miles to a T-intersection. Then turn left and continue 5.4 miles (road becomes FR 24) to a junction. Turn right and drive 1.2 miles turning right at the Staircase Ranger Station for trailhead parking.