Mount Walker, Mount Walker Trailhead - Olympic National Forest, Olympic National Park, Washington
Mount Walker - 5.0 miles
Mount Walker Trailhead - Olympic National Forest
| Round-Trip Length: | 5.0 miles (4.0 roundtrip to North Summit - 5.0 to South Summit) |
| Start-End Elevation: | 845' - 2805' (2,805' max elevation at each summit) |
| Elevation Change: | +1,960' net gain (+2,200' total roundtrip elevation gain) |
| Skill Level: | Easy |
| Dogs Allowed: | Yes |
| Bikes Allowed: | No |
| Horses Allowed: | No |
| Related Trails: |
Mount Walker - 5.0 Miles Round-Trip
Mount Walker (2,805') rises from the west shore of Puget Sound with views across the greater Seattle area. Visitors will enjoy panoramas that include the Olympic Range, Buckhorn Range, Quilcene Range, Mt Rainier, Downtown Seattle and Puget Sound from its distinct north and south summits
The Mount Walker Trail is relatively short but extremely steep, climbing 2000' in just 2 miles:
The trail rises east from the parking lot through a rhododendron-salal understory into healthy mixed conifers that recovered from a major fire in the late 1800s. These Douglas fir generally exceed 100 years and the cedar are quite impressive.
The trail gains 1300' in this first mile alone (1.0 miles : 2,145'). While views are non-existent along the trail, the dense forest and high tree canopy lock in the peaceful sounds of area birds such as the Hermit Warbler and Sooty Grouse.
The well maintained trail continues its ascent through the final mile until breaking out into the established north summit of Mount Walker (2.0 miles : 2,805'). The north summit features 180 degree views of Mount Constance, Warrior Peak, Buckhorn Mountain and more.
After enjoying the north summit views, continue along the trail and hop on Mount Walker Viewpoint Road for the easy .5 mile walk to the south summit of Mount Walker (2.5 miles : 2,805').
The south summit features amazing views to the east and south including: Mount Rainier, Downtown Seattle, Puget Sound and the lower Quilcene Range.
Worth Noting
- For those short on time, you can easily drive to each summit along the 4 mile Mount Walker Viewpoint Road. Mt Walker is the only Puget-sound facing summit with a road to its summit.
- There are parking areas and pit toilets located at both the north and south summits of Mount Walker.
- Calypso Orchids grow along the damp hillsides of Mt Walker.
- The south summit viewpoint is handicap accessible.
Camping and Backpacking Information
There is no backpacking or camping on the Mount Walker Trail. Day use only.
Fishing Information
There is no suitable fishing along the Mount Walker Trail.
Rules and Regulations
- No bikes or motorized vehicles on the Mt Walker Trail
- No camping allowed - day use only
- Dogs must be kept at leas at the summit - and under full control at all times
Directions to Trailhead
From the Quicene - Hood Canal Ranger Station, drive 5 miles south on Highway 101 and turn left (east) into Mount Walker Viewpoint Road. Drive through the gate and 1/4 mile up to the signed trailhead on the right hand side.
If the gate is closed, park at the gate and walk up a 1/4 mile to the trailhead on the righ hand side.
Contact Information
Hood Canal Ranger District | Quilcene Office
295142 Highway 101 S.
PO Box 280
Quilcene, WA 98376
360.765.2200
Olympic National Forest
Supervisor's Office
1835 Black Lk Blvd SW
Olympia, WA 98512
360.956.2402
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