Mount Storm King Trail
A steep forest ascent above Lake Crescent with major elevation gain and consequential upper terrain.
Route overview
Follow the Marymere Falls approach to the signed turnoff, climb the steep ridge route, and return the same way before conditions deteriorate.
Mount Storm King climbs aggressively from the Marymere Falls corridor, gaining roughly 2,100 feet in 2.1 miles. The steep grade, loose surfaces and exposed upper terrain demand strong fitness, dry conditions and conservative turnaround decisions.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Olympic Peninsula, Washington
- Distance
- 4.2 mi / 6.8 km round trip from the Marymere Falls junction
- Typical duration
- 4–6 hours
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- 2,100 ft / 640 m officially stated
- Best season
- Late spring through autumn in dry, stable conditions
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No day-hiking permit; park entrance fee applies
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Extreme grade, loose footing, exposure, falls, wet roots, heat, dehydration and difficult descent
Highlights
Lake Crescent views, steep ridge forest and elevated mountain perspective
Why find a buddy
A capable partner improves fall response, turnaround judgment and support on the steep descent.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.