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Exploring the Olympic Peninsula
The trails offer plentiful opportunities for nature photography.
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Nov 15, 2000 --
Now that the rains are here, most folks stop thinking of hiking and camping--especially hiking and camping on the Olympic Peninsula. The southwestern-facing side of the Olympics gets an average of over 12 feet of rain each year and the wind can reach 70 mph. People who huddle inside, however, miss out on the exhilaration of hiking on a windy day. They never venture out in the rain to see the redoubled intensity of the forest's colors and smell the freshness of the trees. But those people who risk getting wet will be well rewarded with solitude and wildlife sightings. And the end of the trail need not be a chill tent on soggy ground; there is at least one opportunity to sit in a warm room in front of a blazing wood fire.
The Lake Quinault Lodge as seen from the lake. The rain gauge on the chimney is updated regularly; the average rainfall here is over 12 feet per year.
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Our destination of choice is Lake Quinault and the Quinault River, 35 miles north of Aberdeen along highway 101. There are many trailheads on both the North and South Forks of the river. The most popular is probably the lovely Enchanted Valley trail, 13 miles along the South Fork of the river. Brave and hardy souls can make the Skyline Trail loop, nearly 50 miles of spectacular mountains, old growth forest, streams and the North Fork of the Quinault River. Shorter walks exist along the North Fork that range from 14 to 35 miles. Of course, one can spend an entire day just standing in the woods turning in circles, bird watching or merely drinking in the rich silence and beauty before retreating to a hot meal and a warm bed.
On Lake Quinault, there are several miles of well-traveled, well-maintained trails that wind through ancient forest and a cedar bog wetland. Trail lengths range from 1/2 mile to 8 miles and guided hikes are offered by the staff at the Lake Quinault Ranger Station.
The world’s largest Sitka Spruce stands just down the road from the Lake Quinault Lodge.
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There are two campgrounds on either side of the ranger station, guaranteed to have space available this time of year. A far more comfortable option is right next door: the Lake Quinault Lodge. Prices are lower after October 2, starting at about $75. Those who camp out can still enjoy excellent meals in the lodge dining room (local seafood is a specialty), but folks rooming at the lodge can take advantage of the lakeside boat rentals, outdoor lawn games, indoor swimming pool, game room and family activities dreamed up by Activities Director Jeff Dahl. Organized rainforest walks leave from the main lodge on weekend days (also weekdays by reservation), guided by Ranger Dan Hull. So go, spend a day or a week, walk in the woods and refresh your soul.
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