Experience Mount Ellinor

Overlooking Lake Cushman and the Great Bend of Hood Canal, Mount Ellinor celebrates spectacular scenery with unique and fascinating wildlife. With maintained trails for all skill levels, it is one of the most accessible summits in the Olympic National Park.

There are two options when hiking to the summit of Mount Ellinor: a lower trailhead at 2,600 feet which welcomes you to the ascent with a slight incline, or the upper trailhead at 3,500 feet which starts you out with an immediate upward ascent. From the lower trailhead, the hike adds to 6.2 miles round-trip, while the upper trailhead adds to 3.2 miles round-trip.

This hike begins with an old growth forest. The lush, damp trees shield you from the sunshine, but not for long. The trail quickly transforms into a steep climb with rock-strewn switchback slopes and thinning trees. Soon enough, you’re facing a rocky, wildflower meadow and rock stepping stones leading to the summit. Steep may it be, remember to stay focused on the reward.

The Mount Ellinor summit offers 360-degree views of Mount Washington, Stone, Pershing, Olympus, and the Cascades, along with sights of Olympia, Tacoma, and Seattle. Southern views include Lake Cushman and Hood Canal, and Mount Rainier in the distance.

Pack a light lunch and plenty of water to take pleasure in a picnic away from everyday life. Expect to spend some time at the summit with local mountain goats. But beware: they can get slightly aggressive if they think you are a good source of salt. You will also likely see some chipmunks who will enjoy eating out of your hand. Camp jays, woodpeckers, and grouse are spotted frequently as well.

Heading back down the mountain can be quite the challenge as well, considering tired legs and unstable rock. However, this trek is definitely worth a seasonal repeat for most.

A Northwest Forest Pass is required at the upper trailhead but not the lower.

Exit Hwy 101 onto State Route 119 at the Hoodsport junction. Follow 119 until a right on Forest Road 24, follow for 1.6 miles. Turn left on Forest Road 2419 until you reach the lower trailhead (five miles). To get to the upper trailhead, continue 1.7 miles and turn left on Forest Road 2419-014. Trailhead is at the end of the road.