Big Creek Loop In The Olympic National Forest

Hike this circuitous route within the shadows of Mount Ellinor, and let Big Creek and its tumbling tributaries continuously charm & captivate you.

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. Start the hike at Upper Big Creek Loop Trail, going clockwise for an easier descent. You'll cross a sturdy bridge over Big Creek and pass benches along the way. At 1.8 miles, there's a junction where you can take the Creek Confluence Trail to see where Big and Branch Creeks meet before returning to the main trail.

The Big Creek Loop heads straight to a junction with Mount Ellinor Connector Trail, which goes left for 1.4 miles to Mount Ellinor Trail for a challenging climb. The loop continues over bridges crossing Branch Creek and Big Creek with beautiful views. It descends past mossy boulders and views of Big Creek. A side trail goes right to where Big and Branch Creeks meet.

The trail later crosses Skinwood and No Name Creeks, passes old fir trees, and reaches Campground Loop Trail at 4.0 miles. You can extend your hike by taking the campground loop or return to the trailhead by going right.

TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS:

• Features: Waterfalls, bridges, vibrant Pacific rhododendrons

• Distance: 4.2 miles round trip

• Elevation gain: 850 feet

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Permits: NW Forest Pass or Interagency Pass

• Hiking Season: Open all year

• Kid and Dog Friendly: Yes

Trailhead Amenities:

• Facilities: Restrooms, picnic area, campground, water source

• GPS coordinates: N47 29.599, W123 12.661

How to Get There:

• From Shelton, head north on US 101 for 15 miles to Hoodsport.

• Turn left onto SR 119, continue 9.3 miles west to a T intersection with FR 24.

• Turn left, then immediately right into Big Creek Campground.

• Proceed a short distance to the Day Use Area and trailhead.

Contact Information:

• Olympic National Forest, Hood Canal Ranger District, Quilcene

Additional Notes:

• When Big Creek Campground is closed, park at gate without blocking it and walk to trailhead.

• Map: Green Trails Olympic Mountains E 168S