North Fork Skokomish River Trail

From across the Staircase Campground, the North Fork Skokomish River Trail follows the Skokomish River's east wall as it winds north. You'll quickly note that the river is flowing the opposite direction towards Hood Canal, an arm of Puget Sound. Follow the river along the bottom of the valley as you pass Staircase Rapids, multiple streams, and skirt the southern slopes of Mt. Lincoln (5,772'). Eventually you'll pass Flapjack Lake Trail on your right and work your way closer to the namesake river itself. Be mindful along this section, there are multiple streams to cross. Pass Black and White Lakes Primitive Trail, then cross the river itself. The trail intersects with Six Ridge Trail directly after this. Continue along the river's western wall for a few more miles until you finally diverge from the river. From here, the hiking gets very difficult - if you were looking for a mellow journey, turn around. North Fork Skokomish River Trail now heads up the saddle between Mount Duckabush (5,759') and Mount Steel (6,133') to the west, and Mount Hopper (6,099') to the east. Generally hikers will end their journey at the famed First Divide, but the trail continues north, all the way to the Duckabush River Trail. Along the way to First Divide you'll pass the Nine Stream and Two Bear campgrounds. Be sure not to miss the panoramic views from the top!