Flapjack Lakes In Olympic National Park

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 hike starts on North Fork Skokomish Trail, passing through a lush forest with ancient trees. The trail follows an old road closed in the 1970s. After about 3.6 miles, there's a junction near Spike Camp. Head right to start climbing out of the valley. Cross Madeline Creek on a sturdy bridge and continue up. The trail gets steeper as you follow Donahue Creek. Just before a junction, a trail on the left leads to Black and White Lakes.

The Flapjack Lakes lie 0.6 mile straight ahead. Set in a basin at 3850 feet, they are ringed by subalpine forest and the rugged spires of the Sawtooth Range. A trail travels 0.8 mile around the western lake. If you spend the night, consider the 1.3 mile side trip to the Black and White Lakes or the 1.4 mile side trip to 5000-foot Gladys Divide beneath the impressive summit of 6104-foot Mount Cruiser.

Highlights: Two high-altitude lakes, ancient tall trees, backpacking
Distance: 15.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 3050 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Permits: Required from National Park or Interagency Pass
Hiking Season: Mid-June to October
Notes: Permit needed for backcountry camping
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Dog-Friendly: No
GPS Waypoint: N47 30.968, W123 19.691
Trailhead Amenities: Ranger Station, campground, toilets, water, picnic tables
Contact: Olympic National Park, Wilderness Information Center
Maps: Green Trails Oly. Mountains E 168S
Directions: From Shelton, head north on US 101 for 15 miles to Hoodsport. Turn left on SR 119 and drive 9.3 miles to T-intersection. Turn left and continue for 5.4 miles (becomes FR 24) to a junction. Turn right, drive 1.2 miles, then right at Staircase Ranger Station for trailhead parking.