Hike to Sol Duc Falls and Deer Lake
Added by Rose Freeman
Explore a short hike through green mossy woods to a roaring waterfall! Sol Duc Falls hike round trip: 1.6 miles. Elevation gain: 500ft. Hike past the waterfall to Deer Lake round trip: 5.6 miles. Elevation gain: 1,500ft.
The hike to Sol Duc Falls is a simple 0.8 mile walk to a roaring falls on the Sol Duc River. If you’re up for more of a hike, continue on the trail to Deer Lake from Sol Duc Falls. At the fork in the trail, turn left and hike up away from the Lover's Lane Trail.
The trail steepens and the rocky switchbacks lead you through a forest of cedar, hemlock, and silver fir trees. At 1.5 miles, cross over Canyon Creek on a wide bridge. Continue another 0.5 miles and keep your eye out for the sparkly blue lake to burst through the trees. The trail winds around the lake to a grassy meadow. Enjoy lunch at the lake before the return hike.
To get to the Sol Duc River Trailhead, turn onto Sol Duc Hot Springs Road from US Highway 101 and follow it all the way to the end where you'll find the parking lot and trailhead.
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Beautiful waterfall!
This is a nice easy hike for all abilities. The falls are beautiful and the hike is through the dark mossy forest that is so common in this area. Be on the lookout for mushrooms. Once you get past Sol Duc Falls, the crowds thin out and you will be mostly alone on the trail to Deer Lake, which is really beautiful as well.
5.0
Magical Waterfall and Peaceful Lake
The waterfall is absolutely breathtaking. The trail to the lake is well maintained, lush, and beautiful. If you are hoping to photograph the waterfall, be certain that you have prepared for spray!
5.0
Pretty lake
Easy walk and the lake is beautiful on a sunny day.
5.0
Huge reward for short hike to the falls!
We didn't go all the way to the lake but the falls are incredible! We arrived just before sunrise and there was not another soul in sight. I've heard it gets pretty busy as the day goes on but the morning was perfect.
5.0
Check it out
Great little hike to the falls. Pretty sweet falls when the sun is coming through at the right angle (towards sunset) as the rainbow spans the entire falls!
4.0
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We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
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