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:
Incredible Views
Loved this hike! Great day hike, pretty strenuous on the way up, but so beautiful up top. The view is ten times better if you climb up to the top using the ropes, you can see out over Lake Crescent and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Just be careful on the ropes and you should be fine!
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.
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