Griff Creek Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Lots of scrambling in the last half-mile or so.

Due to the road washout, this trail now must be accessed from Madison Falls Trail. From the trailhead parking area, follow the paved road 0.7 miles to the Bypass Trail. Take the entire Bypass Trail. Once you are back on the road, in approximately 0.7 miles you'll reach the Elwha Ranger Station, on your left side. This trail begins behind the ranger station.

The trail starts easily enough, traveling along a smooth tread with a few fallen trees to scramble around. It will begin to climb in earnest, winding back and forth up the mountain. While steep, the path is pretty smooth with only a few rooty and rocky parts all the way up to the Big Dramatic lookout, at approximately mile 1.8.

There are occasional views if you peek through the trees on the way up. Continue up the trail as it gets more technical with loose scree in spots. There are more things to climb over/crawl under along the way. The top offers a nice view as well, although not as impressive as the Big Dramatic Lookout a mile below. The "End of Trail" sign provides a nice sense of accomplishment - time to head back down!

Sooty grouse.