Little River Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · River/Creek · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Discovery Pass required at trailhead.

Very runnable for the first few miles before it starts getting a little narrower and more primitive.

Assuming you're starting at the bottom trailhead, you'll find a designated parking lot on your left 0.25 miles down Little River Road from the turn off Black Diamond Road. The trail starts across the street from the parking area with a short drop to the river, then another short climb, before leveling off through State Forest Land.

*Technically bikes and dogs are allowed on this trail while you are on State Land (DNR). You enter Olympic National Park at approximately 1.2 miles, there is usually a sign marking this transition but it is on you to turnaround at this point if you have your dog or bike. Trail is patrolled.*

The trail winds around giant rock outcroppings called "Goblins," fantastic walls teeming with plants, moss, and fungi. The river is always present, noisily making its way downhill, and providing plenty of great views. Fun log bridges cross the river many times for the first 2.5 miles and then you start climbing. And climbing, and climbing

Dense forest gives way to sub-alpine terrain as the going gets really steep and all but the hardiest of mountain goats will slow their pace drastically here. In the warmer months, you'll make your way through fields of avalanche lilies. If you want to avoid snow, the best time to complete the trek to the Hurricane Hill Nature Trail is July through September (although, always check weather conditions before heading out and be prepared for anything!).

Coyote, cougar, black bear, and of course the industrious mountain beaver.