It’s one of the hardest and meanest trails in the Olympic Mountains. The trail to the Mildred Lakes was never officially built and includes steep sections up rocks, roots, and ledges.

A great alternative to the oft-crowded Lena Lakes, the Elk Lakes are a perfect destination for hikers, young and old alike and those just seeking a little solace. The hike described here is the longer way following a remnant of a trail that once traversed the entire Jefferson Creek Valley. If your intent is to get to the lakes, then begin your hike from the upper (main) trailhead.

The Lena Lakes are located above the Hamma Hamma valley. Despite having the same name, the two lakes have distinct differences. The lower lake is a simple, family and pet-friendly walk through old, tall trees in Olympic National Forest. The upper lake is a tough climb to a beautiful high area in Olympic National Park. The lower lake is usually crowded, while the upper lake offers more solitude. Access to both lakes is the same.

The Lena Lakes are located above the Hamma Hamma valley. Despite having the same name, the two lakes have distinct differences. The lower lake is a simple, family and pet-friendly walk through old, tall trees in Olympic National Forest. The upper lake is a tough climb to a beautiful high area in Olympic National Park. The lower lake is usually crowded, while the upper lake offers more solitude. Access to both lakes is the same.

Subalpine lakes tucked in the high serrated divide separating Olympic National Park from the Mount Skokomish Wilderness. To reach the two lakes, most of the trail is easy or moderately steep, making it doable in a day for experienced hikers. Runners and strong hikers can make it in a day. Beginners might consider camping overnight at the lakes.

The trail starts off easy on an old road, crossing a flowing creek. Then it gets steep quickly with sharp turns, climbing nonstop through switchbacks. Pass by salal and young trees, with some big ancient firs still standing from past fires.

The trail starts off easy on an old road, crossing a flowing creek. Then it gets steep quickly with sharp turns, climbing nonstop through switchbacks. Pass by salal and young trees, with some big ancient firs still standing from past fires.

This easy hiking loop around Big Creek crosses over several bridges and leads to hidden waterfalls. It's best to hike after heavy rain. The Mount Rose Trail Crew built the loop over twenty years ago using old logging roads and new paths. The trail starts at Big Creek Campground and is maintained by the volunteer crew. One of the highlights of the hike is the well-built bridges.

Hoodsport Trail Park is a small park located between Hood Canal and Lake Cushman. It offers about two miles of wooded trails with loops and connections. The trail system can be a bit confusing, which adds to the adventure for hikers also exploring Olympic National Park and Forest nearby.