Hiker in Quinault Rainforest

Notices
Description
Trail ConditionsCamping
Special Concerns
Safety
Map

General Location:  27 miles northeast of Lake Quinault along East Fork Quinault River Valley.

Notices

• Bear Warning!  Bears are common in this area. Always secure all food, garbage and scented items in bear canisters 24 hours a day. Bear canisters are recommended for this entire trail and are available at the South Shore Quinault Ranger Station.
• Contact the WIC for information about trailhead shuttles. (360) 565-3100

Description

Ecosystem type: Rain forest river valley 
Trail tread types: Well-maintained  
General elevation trend: Moderate
River crossings: The Pyrites Creek footlog often washes out. Check current conditions.
Unique features: Old-growth rain forest, waterfalls, historic chalet 
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 13.0 miles from Graves Creek to Enchanted Valley
Elevation change: 1,700 feet
Best Season: May through September

Camping

Permits/Reservations: Obtain permits at the WIC in Port Angeles or at the South Shore Lake Quinault Ranger Station located next to Lake Quinault Lodge. No reservations necessary.
Food Storage Method: Bear canisters and bear wires. Bear wires are located at O'Neil Creek, Pyrites Creek and Enchanted Valley. Bear canisters are recommended in other areas without wires.
Campsites: Pony Bridge, O'Neil Creek, Pyrites Creek, Enchanted Valley.
Toilet Facilities: Pit toilets are available at O'Neil Creek and Enchanted Valley. In other areas bury waste 6-8" 200 ft from water sources and campsites. Please pack out toilet paper.  
Water Source: East Fork Quinault River and tributary streams. Always boil, filter or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent Giardia.
Stock: Allowed, check stock regulations. See Stock Use.

Special Concerns

Leave No Trace:  Leave No Trace of your stay to protect vegetation and prevent further camping regulations. Camp in established sites or on bare ground.
Campfires: To protect sensitive vegetation, campfires are not allowed above 3,500 feet. Leave no trace of your fire ring.
Respect Wildlife: To protect bears and other wildlife, all food, garbage and scented items must be secured from all wildlife 24 hours a day.

Safety

• Enchanted Valley is home to many bears. Always secure all food, garbage and scented items from bears and other wildlife.
• During Fall, Winter and Spring months, winter weather can occur even at lower elevations. Be prepared for down trees, snow, stream crossings, trail and road washouts and cool, very wet weather.
• Trees can also fall across the Graves Creek Road. Don't get trapped.