Upper Gray Wolf Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This is one of the best, and more secret trail runs in Olympic National Park. Downfall and high creeks can cause a problem in the spring, fall, and winter months, while summer running is as good as it gets.

*Leashed dogs are allowed on this trail until the Olympic National Park boundary, located approximately 0.8 mile from passing Slide Camp at Slide Creek.*

For those looking for remoteness and solitude, look no further than the trails along the Gray Wolf River. Tucked away near the rain shadow of the Olympic Peninsula, the paths leading through the Gray Wolf Region are gorgeous, remote, and typically only visited by a handful of locals. While there are over 20 miles of trails that lead along the Gray Wolf River, the most popular route is the run that leads through some of the prettiest forests on the northeastern side of the Olympic Peninsula.

Starting at Slab Camp, descend the Slab Camp Trail, cross the bridge over the Gray Wolf River, ascend the switchbacks on the other side then turn right passing Camp Tony headed toward Slide Camp along the Gray Wolf River.

The path is simple to follow, immediately dropping in elevation next to Slab Camp Creek to join with the scenic Gray Wolf River, which gurgles and cascades along this quiet and remote river valley. Originally a logging camp, the region now gives access to some of the more remote and breathtaking backpacking locations in Olympic National Park.

As a day trip, the trail gives visitors the ideal wilderness experiences, crossing iconic wooden bridges and weaving through lush green forests lined with blooming rhododendrons. This route is perfect for spring, summer and fall visitors, but may be a little tough to navigate late in the year depending on the winter snowpack.

Most take the 6 mile out and back trail to the bridge, but those wanting to officially enter Olympic National Park can continue on for a 12 mile out and back journey that gets them to the entry sign of Olympic. Those who do continue along the trail past the bridge are rewarded with even more isolation, as well as a glimpse of the ruggedness that makes Olympic National Park so unique.

In the spring, this trail erupts with rhododendrons and wildflowers, while the fall turns this remote trail into a mushroom picker's paradise. Second growth and old growth timber is the norm here, as are endless stretches off moss and ferns. Watch for deer and the occasional black bear!