The Staircase area in Olympic National Park offers many hikes that range from moderate to strenuous in the area around the beautiful Staircase Rapids on the Skokomish River. The Staircase Rapids loop is my favorite round trip family hike and features an easy climb through old-growth forest, with scenic views of the river and surrounding mountains. Along the way, hikers will also pass by several waterfalls and cascading streams. The trailhead is located at the Staircase Campground and parking is available. It is a popular destination, so hikers should expect to share the trail with other visitors. It's open all year, but may be impassable in winter due to snow.
If you are looking for other trail options, there are several other hikes in the park that may be a better fit for you. Some examples the trail hikes trails include:
Day Hikes Around Staircase
Staircase Rapids Loop: As already mentioned, this easy 2-mile trail (my favorite)winds through old growth forest to a bridge over the North Fork Skokomish River with only a 200-foot elevation gain. A spur trail leads to a huge fallen cedar called Big Cedar(shown in the pictures below). The 0.6 miles to the fallen Big Cedar tree, and the 0.5 mile section to a river viewpoint are accessible with assistance.
Four Stream: If you go passed the Staircase Rapids Bridge on southwest side of river and hike 1.2 miles to Beaver Flat. You'll enter a swampy section of red alder and redcedar forest where Four Stream meets the river. Elevation loss 100 feet. Be careful with bees around this area. My daughter was stung several times.
Wagonwheel Lake: 2.9 miles, this is a serious workout with an elevation gain of 3,365 feet in a short distance. It is a strenuous hike up forested slopes, with occasional mountain views.
Shady Lane: Flat 0.9 mile to Four Stream Road and Lake Cushman. First 0.1 mile is accessible to wheelchair users. It's a great family hike. Watch for elk and other critters.
Flapjack Lakes: 7.8-mile one-way, brawny hike that has a 3,115 foot elevation gain; a day hike only for very experienced, strong hikers.
North Fork Skokomish River: Dayhikers can hike the valley part of this 15.1-mile trail that ultimately steers you to the Duckabush River.
These are just a few examples of the many trails available in Olympic National Park. It's important to check trail conditions, distance and elevation gain before starting any hike, and to be prepared for the hike with adequate supplies, clothing and footwear.
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