On most backpacking trails, there are at least a few forgettable miles: sections of the trail that are nondescript, ordinary, bland even. Every one of the 27 miles of the East Fork Quinault River Trail in Olympic National Park, however, is a banger. Each step is full of remarkable flora, fauna, and vistas until the trail reaches its breathtaking conclusion in Enchanted Valley. This beginner-friendly backpacking trail is one of the most popular in the national park; here’s how to make the most of your time there. 

Why You Should Hike The East Fork Quinault River Trail 

Even before we reached the famed Enchanted Valley, the beauty of the trail amazed me. The trail takes hikers through lush forests. (This area of the Quinault is actually classified as a rainforest.) It’s home to some of the tallest red and yellow cedars, Douglas firs, Sitka spruces, and Western and Mountain Hemlock trees in the United States. As you’re dwarfed by these massive conifers, you’ll take in stunning views of large peaks, including Muncaster Mountain (5,910 feet). 

Just as I started to wonder when I would reach Enchanted Valley on my hike last May, I crossed a wooden bridge and the trail suddenly opened up to produce magnificent views of this Edenic valley. The snow-capped 7,321-foot Mt. Anderson towers over the area, often called “the valley of 10,000 waterfalls.” That may be hyperbole, but it does seem that no matter which way you turn your gaze, you’re bound to see another cascade. It’s possible to take a short walk to see one waterfall near camp up close.

The area also boasts an interesting history. It’s home to an abandoned chalet, built in the 1930s as a retreat for hikers and horseback riders. In World War II, that building served as an aircraft warning station to watch for Japanese planes. In 1959, the National Park Service bought the chalet and then restored it in 1980 and 2010. While currently and indefinitely closed, the building—covered in moss and often speckled with birds’ nests—is the largest log structure in Olympic National Park, and an excellent example of early 20th century rustic architecture.

A Great Overnighter for Beginners 

The journey to Enchanted Valley is a beginner backpacker’s dream. The trail is extremely well-marked, with signposts at every possible turn. Water access is plentiful, with O’Neill Creek and the Quinault River easily accessible along the trail and in the valley. Plus, I rarely felt out of breath on the trail: The elevation gain of 1,800 feet is spread evenly over the 27 miles, so a sharp ascent happens only very occasionally. Although the trail certainly has the remoteness and relaxation I look for in the backcountry, it’s also great if you feel anxious about backpacking for the first time or about going alone. We saw plenty of other hikers and met two park rangers along the trail. 

Wildlife

Black bears are common in this area of Olympic. On our hike, we saw two in quick succession, and the NPS requires bear canisters for overnight hikers. Be sure to store food and any other scented products in these containers a safe distance away from campsites. We also saw several Roosevelt elk, the largest species of elk in North America. Although I am not a birder by any means, the sheer numbers of birds I saw (and heard) on the trail—including red-tailed hawks, pileated woodpeckers, song sparrows, and purple finches—impressed me.

East Fork Quinault River Trail Basic Information

• Trail Length: 27.8 miles total (out and back). The trail begins at Graves Creek Trailhead. It is possible to do the trail over two days (it is 13 miles to Enchanted Valley). However, be sure to leave time to adequately enjoy the valley. We split up the hike as follows: camping at O’Neill Creek (approximately 6.7 miles in), camping at Enchanted Valley (13 miles), and then camping again at O’Neill Creek on the way back .  
• Best time to Hike: Conditions are best from May through June. The heavy snowfall the area receives needs most of the spring to fully melt. However, with any place in the Pacific Northwest, it can rain at any time any time of the year, so bring proper rain gear. 
• Transport: The biggest disadvantage to the East Fork Quinault River Trail is the drive time. I flew into Seattle-Tacoma airport, and then drove around 3.5 hours to the trailhead. If coming from out of state, renting a car will likely be a necessity. 
• Permits: You need a permit for any overnight stay in Enchanted Valley. Beginning in 2024, the NPS instituted a quota on a trial basis for the popular area. There is a maximum of 30 permits or 208 users per night (whichever comes first). Permits cost $8 per person per night and are available here. On April 15, permits for May 15 to October 15 become available. 

Other Trails Nearby

To complete your Olympic National Park experience, it’s possible to extend the East Fork Quinault River Trail from Enchanted Valley another 5.2 miles one way to Anderson Glacier. Ascend 3,500 feet to an alpine lake and views of the valley below. (Note: This section of the trail is impassable from November to June and may require special equipment such as crampons.) 

Less than an hour away from Graves Creek Trailhead is the trailhead for the North Fork Quinault River Trail. From here, it’s possible to complete another overnight backpacking trip to Low Divide (31 miles out and back). Or, you can enjoy a dayhike to Elip Creek (8 miles out and back). If you’re looking for a more physical challenge, the North Fork Quinault River Trail, with its multiple water crossings and steep ascents, fits the bill.