Hike Mount Storm King in Olympic NP

Rope is down

The rope was NOT there when I hiked it (today 5/4/17). I didn't read the trail guide (an unusual move for me) so I was not aware you needed a rope to get to the summit. I attempted to hike up the rope section (assuming it was the trail) only to have my shoes slide out from under me. I grabbed onto a root and slowly found my way back down to the official trail. It was the scariest hiking experience I've had. DO NOT attempt to hike this section when the rope is removed. One slip and off the side of the mountain you go. Besides the above it's a beautiful and strenuous hike.

Great in the Winter too

Hiked this for the first time in early January with intermittent snow on the trail, nothing difficult to handle at all, just make sure you have crampons for when the trail steepens and you need to use the ropes, as having some traction on these parts is key. I found the trail more difficult than it would seem on paper, definitely a good work out, and the last 1/4 mile is a blast with easy scrambles and some great views.

My favorite hike from my trip to Olympic

I spent a weekend in Olympic earlier this month and I almost didn't do this hike. I added it to my itinerary at the last minute and am so glad I did because it ended up being my favorite hike of the weekend! Start early, I left the trailhead a little before 9:30 and didn't have to share the summit with anyone else the hour or so I was up there but as I hiked down I passed countless groups making their way up. Enjoying the views in solitude made the experience so much better! As others have noted there is some exposure on this hike; remain cautious and use the ropes and you shouldn't have any problems.

Great hike, but be careful!

This hike is one of my favorite quick, high-reward routes on the Peninsula. The views from the top are really incredible, and very different from a lot of the popular hikes in the area. However, the fixed ropes that allow you to make it up the last .4 miles are NOT supported or maintained by the Washington Trail's Association. The "top" of the hike, according to WTA, is at 1.7 miles, which does not get you to the summit at 2.1 miles (or the spot where those amazing photos are taken). The fixed ropes are--according to rumor--removed by trail maintenance workers every once and a while for safety, and then replaced by the hikers who want to be able to reach the top. That being said, I have used the ropes plenty of times, and they have been fine...but remember to be careful and use them at your own risk.

Challenging

Challenging hike, not for the dog or kids, but very well worth it for someone in good shape. The hike is actually 2.1 miles each way. Make sure to be careful at the top!

Tough But Worth It

This hike makes Zion's Angels Landing look like child's play. Non stop climb all the way and just as you think you can climb no further, you have to grab onto the ropes to haul yourself up the final couple of pitches. But the view from the top is incredible. Be prepared to work hard and you'll be rewarded.