Hike of the Week: Deer Lake

A "Deer" spot indeed in the Olympic Mountains

Deer Lake

The buck stops here-and so should you!

by Craig Romano
photo by Craig Romano
produced by Michael Fagin

Quick Facts
Location: North Olympic Peninsula, Sol Duc Valley
Land Agency: National Park Service
Roundtrip: 7.5 miles
Elevation gain: 1,600 feet
Contact: Olympic National Park Wilderness Information Center (360) 565-3100; http://www.nps.gov/olym
Green Trails Map: Seven Lakes Basin/ Mt Olympus No 133S
Notes: Dogs Prohibited, National Park Entry Fee
Access: From Port Angeles follow US 101 west for 29 miles, passing Lake Crescent. About 2 miles beyond the Fairholm Store turn left onto Sol Duc Hot Springs Road. Follow this road for 14 miles to its end at a large trailhead parking lot.


Deer Lake lies within the shadows of the High Divide, a land of sparkling alpine lakes, resplendent alpine meadows, and awe-inspiring alpine views. But unlike the bodies of water that sparkle in the Seven Lakes Basin, sub-alpine Deer can easily be hiked to in a day. The trail is well-trodden and just a tad steep in places following alongside cascading Canyon Creek for most of its way.
This hike starts off easy enough on a .8 mile nearly level sojourn through spectacular old-growth forest to pretty Sol Duc Falls. You’ll have plenty of company along this very popular stretch of trail. After crossing the Sol Duc River on a well-built bridge commence climbing.
On a steep, sometimes rocky path work your way up a dark ravine housing Canyon Creek. About midway up the trail, come to a sturdy bridge spanning high above the creek. Slog along for another half mile of steep going before the grade finally eases. One more push and you’re almost there. Now cross Canyon Creek once again, this time at the outlet of Deer Lake. Enjoy. Nestled in a forested and grassy bowl, the lake’s waters reflect a soft green. Surrounded by yellow cedar, mountain hemlock, silver fir, and a thick understory of huckleberries, it’s a pretty and serene spot. Deer often browse along the lakeshore and it’s not uncommon seeing them in the shallow lake as well.
A backcountry ranger station and campground can also be found at the lake. A rough path circles Deer and reveals a smaller hidden “fawn” lake. Wander it if you care or continue for another mile or two up the High Divide Trail to parkland meadows and views. Or just sit back and enjoy the serenity of Deer Lake.

For information on lodging and other attractions near Deer Lake visit
Click here for link to Olympic Pennsula