Near Wagonwheel Lake Trail
View over the Skokomish River.
Near Wagonwheel Lake Trail
1.2 miles up Wagonwheel Lake Trail. One of the only view spots on the trek up.
Near Wagonwheel Lake Trail
Rhodies in bloom and a glimpse of Lightening Peak.
Near Wagonwheel Lake Trail
Ridge near old slide area.
Near Wagonwheel Lake Trail
Filtering water from Wagonwheel Lake.

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Hike Trail

Wagonwheel Lake Trail

3.8 (8 Ratings)
Steep, steep, and more steep. This trail rewards you with a nice lake in the Olympic Wilderness
3
mi
Distance
4,060
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Lake

Route Map

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Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.95mi
Distance
4,060ft
Elevation Gain
165ft
Elevation Loss
50%
Max Grade
4,726ft
High Point
830ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
The Wagonwheel Lake Trail is brutal, and one of the steepest trails in the Olympic National Park. That being said, the trail is quite enjoyable and shows visitors just how rugged the terrain in this park can be. Starting from the Staircase Campground, hikers will climb nearly 2,000 feet to Wagonwheel Lake. While the lake itself isnt amazing, it is home to bobcats, as well as deer and an occasional elk. Make your way up here, sweat a ton, and enjoy knowing you rocked an extremely difficult trail.

Route Conditions

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Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
May 17, 2024
Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
There was still snow above 4,000ft
May 04, 2024 • Early Afternoon
1
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Contributors
Doug Scott