Port Ludlow Hiking Club

by John Fillers, Port Ludlow Hiking Club

Hikers gather at the Bridge Deck in Port Ludlow at 8:15 a.m. for directions and to arrange carpools, leaving by 8:30 a.m. To find the Bridge Deck location visit the club’s website at portludlowhikingclub.com and click the ABOUT tab.

Individuals on the hiking email list receive notifications during the week of scheduled outings. If you wish to be added to the distribution list, please visit the club’s website at portludlowhikingclub.com and use the CONTACT tab to submit your request. Participation in hikes is open to all; it is not necessary to be a member of the email list or the club.

Friday, April 10 – Lower Lena Lake

The hike to Lower Lena Lake is a moderate 6-mile roundtrip trek featuring an elevation gain of 1,573 feet. Lena Lake itself is a small backcountry lake, surrounded by fir and cedar trees. The trail is well maintained and clearly marked, making it one of the most popular routes in the Olympic Mountains. As hikers approach the lake, there are several viewpoints ideal for resting and observing scenic vistas. The designated turnaround point is a large boulder offering the most prominent view of the lake, where the group will pause to enjoy lunch or a snack before returning via the same route. Restroom facilities are available at the trailhead.

Please ensure appropriate attire for the weather, and consider bringing walking sticks, water, and snacks. Dogs must always remain on a leash. A National or Interagency Pass is required. For further information, please contact the hike leader: Laureen Wagoner at 509-592-6452.

Friday, April 24 – Three Waterfalls

The hike features three waterfalls: Upper Ludlow Falls, Fallsview Falls, and Murhut Falls.

·       Upper Ludlow Falls is a beautiful local waterfall viewed from the recently opened Creek View Loop Trail in Port Ludlow. The Creek View Loop Trail is 1.3 miles with 160 feet elevation change. This route includes Upper Ludlow Falls, which is actually more of a cascade than a fall, but it is also a pleasure to view. Restroom facilities are available.

·       Fallsview Falls is a 100-foot waterfall in Olympic National Forest, located 4 miles south of Quilcene off Highway 101. Access it via an easy 0.2-mile loop trail from Falls View Campground. An optional steep side trail drops 200 feet into the canyon with switchbacks and railroad tie steps, leading to a quiet pool and views of rapids on the Big Quilcene River. Restroom facilities are available.

·       Murhut Falls is a very easy 1.6 miles roundtrip with 300 feet of elevation change. The waterfall has two parts. The upper falls drops 100 feet, and the lower falls adds another 30 feet. The roar of falling water greets you on the final stretch of trail as you descend into the hidden ravine that shelters the tiered falls. Restroom facilities are not available.

Please ensure appropriate attire for the weather, and consider bringing walking sticks, water, and snacks. Dogs must always remain on a leash. A National or Interagency Pass is required at some locations. For further information, please contact the hike leader: John Fillers at 360-434-4250.

Wednesdays: Timberton Loop. Walk the 4.2-mile Timberton Loop. Enjoy views of the Olympic Mountains. This is a no-leader hike. Meet other walkers at the parking lot trailhead on Timberton Drive at 9 a.m.

Monday/Wednesday/Friday - 8 a.m. Join the "Trail Club Group” that meets at the golf club parking lot for a self-led walk on the abandoned golf cart path trail or other alternative route.

For more hiking information, map of the Port Ludlow Trails and descriptions and pictures of previous hikes and other destinations, go to portludlowhikingclub.com.