Mount Zion, Mount Zion Trailhead - Olympic National Forest, Olympic National Park, Washington
Mount Zion - 3.2 miles
Mount Zion Trailhead - Olympic National Forest
| Round-Trip Length: | 3.2 miles |
| Start-End Elevation: | 2,950' - 4,290' (4,290' max elevation at summit) |
| Elevation Change: | +1,340' net elevation gain (+1,455' total roundtrip elevation gain) |
| Skill Level: | Moderate |
| Dogs Allowed: | Yes |
| Bikes Allowed: | Yes |
| Horses Allowed: | Yes |
| Related Trails: |
Mount Zion - 3.2 Miles Round-Trip
The 3.2 mile roundtrip hike to Mount Zion (4,290') has become a rite of passage for residents in the greater Seattle area. This short but very steep trail gains 1,340' in just 1.6 miles to panoramic views that stretch across the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Central Cascades and Olympic Mountains:
The trail heads NE in a second growth Douglas fir forest and diverse understory of pacific rhododendron, salal, oregon grape and ferns.
It gains 925'' in the first mile to the summit's north ridge, where it bends SE with partial views of the lower Gold Creek Valley on the final push to Mount Zion (1.6 miles : 4,290').
Note that Mount Zion is a busy multi-use trail open to hikers, bikers, dogs and horses. Anticipate crowds and follow yield protocols.
Interactive GPS Topo Map
Key GPS Coordinates - DATUM WGS84
- N47 55.368 W123 01.569 — 0.0 miles: Mount Zion Trailhead - 2,950'
- N47 55.651 W123 01.343 — 0.5 miles: Ascent through mixed conifers - 3,400'
- N47 55.602 W123 00.954 — 1.0 miles: Continued ascent through mixed conifers - 3,875'
- N47 55.401 W123 00.656 — 1.6 miles: Mount Zion Summit - 4,290'
Worth Noting
- There is a privy at the trailhead and the summit.
- Folllow directions carefully to the trailhead. Forest Service Road signs can be confusing and/or partially obstructed by vegetation.
- The Mount Zion Trail is also known as Trail No. 836
Camping and Backpacking Information
There is a great campsite located adjacent to the summit of Mt Zion. No water is available. Contact the Hood Canal Ranger District for potential permit requirements.
Fishing Information
There is no fishing on the Mount Zion Trail.
Rules and Regulations
- A valid NW Forest recreation pass is required for parking at the trailhead. Please contact the Hood Canal Ranger District for information (http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/olympic/recreation/recarea/?recid=47691).
- No motorized vehicles of any kind allowed on the Mount Zion Trail.
- Leave No Trace.
Directions to Trailhead
On Highway 101 - drive 1.5 miles north of Quilcene, WA.
Turn west onto Lords Lake Loop Road and drive 3.4 miles until you reach the lake.
Turn left at the lake and drive 4.1 miles to Bon Jon Pass - a major intersection.
At the intersection, turn right onto Road 2880 and drive 1.2 miles to an unmarked split and bear right to remain on 2880. After the split, drive 2 miles to the Mt Zion Parking lot and trailhead (on your left).
The trailead is located directly across the street from the parking lot.
There is a privy located in the parking lot, as well as atop Mt Zion.
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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