Mount Storm King
Port Angeles, Washington
Details
Distance
3.91 miles
Elevation Gain
2251 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Jason Horstman
If you're looking for the best bang for your buck, Mount Storm King is your hike. With a short and steep trail that offers sweeping views of Lake Crescent and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, you won't be disappointed.
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 a 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.
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Mount Storm King Reviews
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.
4.0
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.
5.0
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.
5.0
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Nearby
Marymere Falls
Kayak Lake Crescent
Spruce Railroad Trail
Camp at Fairholme Campground
Ancient Groves
Sol Duc Falls and Deer Lake
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