17. ELK LAKES at OLYMPIC NATIONAL FOREST

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 just to get to the lakes, then begin your hike from the upper (main) trailhead.

Start hiking through a recent burn area traversing steep slopes several hundred feet above roaring Jefferson Creek. Born in the snowfields of Mount Ellinor and her rugged neighbors; the creek crashes through a steep and narrow canyon before draining into the Hamma Hamma River.

The way eventually enters old-growth forest and makes a few ups and downs before coming to a junction at 1.1 miles. Now head right (you’ll be retuning on the left) through a grove of gigantic cedars coming to Elk Lake. Shallow and surrounded by grasses, the lake teems with birdlife and casts pretty reflections of the surrounding slopes. Continue along the shore and then follow alongside Jefferson Creek through more impressive old growth coming to FR 2401.

Then walk the road left for 0.8 mile, picking up the trail again just after crossing Cedar Creek. But be sure to head right first on a 0.2 mile side trail to pretty little Upper Elk Lake. Then retrace your steps—cross the road and follow a trail dropping back down to the lower lake.

Pass big trees and some nice shoreline lounging spots. Pass the spur leading to the upper (main) trailhead and cross Jefferson Creek on jumbled rocks. In spring and other periods of high water this may be difficult. Just beyond the crossing reach the first junction. Turn right and return to your vehicle.