Hike of the Week: Moments Trail
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| Enjoy timeless views of Lake Crescent |
Moments Trail
Savor the present while relishing the past
by Craig Romano
photo by Craig Romano
produced by Michael Fagin
March 16, 2007
Quick Facts
Location: Lake Crescent, North Olympic Peninsula
Land Agency: Olympic National Park
Roundtrip: 1.2 miles
Elevation gain: 20 feet
Green Trails Map: Lake Crescent, WA- No 101
Contact: Olympic National Park Wilderness Information Center (360) 565-3100
Access: From Port Angeles, follow US 101 west for 20 miles to Barnes Point at MP 228. Turn right (signed Lake Crescent Lodge and Marymere Falls) proceeding to a large parking area. Trail begins near the Storm King Ranger Station.
Notes: Dogs prohibited
Barnes Point juts out into Lake Crescent at its great bend. Formed over thousands of years by alluvial outwash from Barnes Creek, Barnes Point has grown into some prime lakeshore real estate. Around the turn of the 20th century homesteaders built a handful of cabins on the fairly level and secluded point. Vacationers followed. In 1916, the elegant Lake Crescent Lodge joined the small array of structures.
Eventually, Barnes Point was added to the Olympic National Park. Many of the old homesteads were abandoned, but the Lake Crescent Lodge still graces the shores of the lake. Today Barnes Point is a delightful place to explore. From the historic Storm King Ranger Station set out on a .3 mile spur trail connecting to the Moments in Time Nature Trail. Then follow this leisurely path on a half mile circuitous route along beautiful lakeshore, under a canopy of stately firs and maples and past fallow fields that once supported homes and gardens and ambitions.
The trail is accessible to all hikers, young and old, fit and not-so fit, and those who need the assistance of a wheelchair. On the Moments in Time Trail you can take your time exploring and appreciating Olympic National Park’s human and natural history. Take in views too-excellent ones-especially from the pristine beaches along the lake. Marvel at the surrounding emerald ridges and scan the waters and shoreline trees for waterfowl, eagles and a myriad of other birds.
You can extend your walk by heading up a short trail along Barnes Creek. Make your way through a forest of impressive old-growth giants on this peaceful path. This trail eventually connects to the Marymere Falls Nature Trail where you can visit the popular cascade or return to the trailhead. Whatever you decide, you’re sure to have a good time and wonderful memories for all time.
For information on lodging and other attractions near Barnes Point, visit
Click here for link to Olympic Peninsula
