Hike Mount Storm King in Olympic NP
If you're looking for the best bang for your buck, this is your hike. With a short and steep trail that offers sweeping views of Lake Crescent and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, this hike won't disappoint.
The trailhead is located right next to the Storm King ranger station adjacent to Lake Crescent right off Hwy 101 just past Port Angeles if heading West.
It shares the same trail as, and breaks off left from the Marymere Falls trail (also worth seeing) about a quarter mile in (look for signage). From there, the path wastes no time heading straight up for almost the entire way. The trail itself is very distinguishable and one need not worry about getting lost. After countless switches, you'll come to viewpoint that offers partial views of Crescent Lake. At this point, you are getting very close to the top. After continuing on, you cross over a ridge that brings you to a series of ropes which you'll use to ascend to the top. After 4-5 sections of rope (the first of which seemed to be the most daunting), you make a short scramble to the top, where you'll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views. Take time to eat some snacks and refuel before heading down, as you'll need as much energy as possible to descend back down the ropes and steep switchbacks.
Pro tip: for some great after-hike brews and food, head to Next Door Gastropub in Port Angeles.
Pack List
- Day pack
- Water and food
- Hiking boots (preferably with good grip)
- Camera
- Trekking poles
| RT Distance | 3.8 Miles |
| Elevation Gain | 1700 Feet |
| Activities | Photography, Hiking |
| Skill Level | Intermediate |
| Season | Year Round |
| Trail Type | Out-and-Back |
| Features |
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Food Nearby
Forest
Lake
Scenic
Waterfall
|
Reviews
Leave a ReviewOverall rating:
Unforgiving Hike Worth It
The hike has countless switchbacks with steep elevation gain right off the bat. The view at the top is oh so worth it! Once you rrach the ropes, youre incredibly close to the top. I suggest some highly grippy shoes just for the ropes section, and some gloves as well because those things are quite dirty. I wouldnt suggest this hike when snow has fallen. The trail off shoots from the waterfall trail. Dont pass up seeing the waterfall at the bottom. In my opinon, knock the waterfall off first because you will DEFINITELY be tired once you come down.
Brutal hike, breathtaking view
It’s a tough hike, but it’s absolutely worth it. Done it three times, and it’s still a messy ending- the scramble with the ropes (if there are any- not always the case), can be hairy, but once you pass the scramble, it’s absolutely gorgeous.
Insanity.
Do not be fooled. This is a strenuous uphill hike. It seems like it is going to be short based on the mileage but it is uphill at a 30 degree angle the whole way. Once you get 90% there, you think you are done. Then you have to hold onto very thin ropes as you crawl up the dry dirt. Think you are done? Nope. The final ascent is all a scramble once you've reached the summit. The final challenge is the hardest while you're on the top: Bees. Try to swat away as dozens of bees attempt to sting you as you are taking in the views. I'm sure any other time of year would be great, but the dry season of August is not the time to come here! :)
