Mount Storm King Olympic National Park
A challenging Olympic National Park hike with a steep, rope-assisted climb to breathtaking views of Lake Crescent.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy solitude
Mount Storm King Olympic National Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy solitude
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging Olympic National Park hike with a steep, rope-assisted climb to breathtaking views of Lake Crescent.
"This hike kicks your butt but rewards you with something out of a dream. "
👟 Grippy Shoes are Key
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction, especially for the rope section and if it's wet.
🧤 Bring Gloves for Ropes
Gloves are highly recommended for the rope scramble to protect your hands.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Summit Panorama
Mount Storm King Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree views of Lake Crescent and surrounding Olympic peaks.
The Rope Scramble
Final ascent to the summit
An exhilarating and challenging climb using ropes to reach the peak.
+1
Lake Crescent Overlook
Various points along the upper trail
Stunning vistas of the turquoise waters of Lake Crescent.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb: Prepare for Steepness
+1Timing is Everything: Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Grippy Shoes are Key
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction, especially for the rope section and if it's wet.
🧤 Bring Gloves for Ropes
Gloves are highly recommended for the rope scramble to protect your hands.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Pack plenty of water, as this is a strenuous hike with significant elevation gain.
⬆️ Not for Fear of Heights
The final ascent is steep with sheer drop-offs; not recommended if you're afraid of heights.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Grippy Shoes are Key
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction, especially for the rope section and if it's wet.
🧤 Bring Gloves for Ropes
Gloves are highly recommended for the rope scramble to protect your hands.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Pack plenty of water, as this is a strenuous hike with significant elevation gain.
⬆️ Not for Fear of Heights
The final ascent is steep with sheer drop-offs; not recommended if you're afraid of heights.
⏱️ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 3-4 hours, including time to enjoy the summit views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mount Storm King is a highly rewarding hike with absolutely stunning summit views of Lake Crescent and the surrounding mountains. While the final rope scramble is challenging and not for those with a fear of heights, most visitors find the effort well worth the incredible payoff. Arriving early is key to avoiding crowds on the narrow trail.
"Amazing hike, it is steep up and the last part with ropes but worth it. If there was no rain it is basically sand therefore not recommended to do it with sneakers or something like that. Took me about 3.5h with 40min on the top."
Sabrina Nachbaur
"Most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. Total time to get up and down for me and my brother (generally fit, 21yo) was 3 hours 45 minutes including about 20-30 minutes at the peak to see the view. I would suggest allowing extra time beyond this to sit at the top!!!
The hike is not an easy one, especially with a heavy backpack and there’s not tons of good views on the way up. If you go beyond the maintained trail it will be a bit risky especially if you’ve never done a real hike like this before. It started to rain for us and rocks were slippery but not too bad. Ropes to get yourself up after the maintained trail are solid. I would not suggest going at peak hours in non ideal weather because it’s best to only have one person on each ropes at once, otherwise one persons slip could wipe out everyone beneath.
Amazing hike and totally worth the view.
To get to the very top, there is a rocky side to climb as well as a dirt side. Both are good options. Since it was raining we did the dirt side which is slightly harder to get to (around the other side of the top) but easier to get up. The rock side was slippery but still doable!
Be safe and enjoy the views."
Joscelyn McGreer
"Big work = big views. 2880 feet in 2 miles, now I know is my limit. That trail was steep and very technical in spots. It was well maintained, even past the “maintained” portion. Bring gloves for sure. Those cheap work gloves with wax fingers are perfect. Then leave them behind for the folks who forgot theirs. The very top is worth it. But you’ve got to scramble up a pretty technical last bit to get there. Bring water, bring a hiking chair. And bring a goldfish for the birds at the top. Hold your hand over your head and they’ll come take it from you. Pretty cool. Don’t overfeed tho!
All in all a very rewarding hike. The weather for me couldn’t have been better. But that hike would be awful if it was cloudy/foggy."
Kevan Simms
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mount Storm King trailhead is located off Highway 101 near Lake Crescent Lodge in Olympic National Park. It's a spur off the Marymere Falls trail.
Yes, there is a parking area near the trailhead. However, it fills up quickly, especially during peak season and on weekends.
Public transportation options are very limited in Olympic National Park. Driving your own vehicle or renting one is the most practical way to reach the trailhead.
Mount Storm King is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Seattle, depending on traffic and ferry schedules.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the main Lake Crescent area, which is near the trailhead. It's always a good idea to check the Olympic National Park website for the most current information on facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Mount Storm King is located within Olympic National Park, so you will need a valid National Park Pass to enter the park and access the trailhead.
The entrance fee is for Olympic National Park itself. You can purchase a pass at one of the park's entrance stations or online in advance.
Mount Storm King is accessible year-round, but trail conditions can vary significantly with weather. The park itself is always open, but it's best to check for any seasonal closures or advisories.
There are no specific tickets required for Mount Storm King itself, as it's a hiking trail within the national park. Your National Park Pass grants you access.
No special permits are required for day hiking Mount Storm King. However, if you plan to backpack in the surrounding areas, backcountry permits would be necessary.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Most hikers complete the Mount Storm King trail in 3 to 4 hours, including time spent at the summit.
Mount Storm King is considered a strenuous or hard hike due to its steepness and the final rope scramble.
The rope section is steep and requires scrambling, with sheer drop-offs. It's not recommended for those with a fear of heights.
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip, comfortable athletic clothing, and consider bringing gloves for the rope section.
No, dogs are not allowed on the Mount Storm King trail.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The summit offers the most iconic panoramic views of Lake Crescent.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful light and fewer crowds.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the sweeping landscapes.
Drones are generally restricted in National Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the official Olympic National Park website for current drone regulations.
Focus on capturing the scale and challenge of the rope scramble. Consider using a wide-angle lens to show the steepness. Be mindful of your surroundings and prioritize safety over photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The final ascent requires significant strength and balance, which can be difficult for children. If you have older, experienced hikers in your family who are comfortable with heights and strenuous activity, it might be manageable, but caution is advised. Consider exploring other family-friendly trails in Olympic National Park, such as the Marymere Falls trail (which is a spur off the Mount Storm King trail and is much easier) or trails around Lake Crescent that offer beautiful scenery without the extreme challenge.
💰 Budget Travelers
The main cost will be your National Park Pass, which is a one-time fee for entry into the park. Pack your own food and water to avoid purchasing expensive items within the park. 💑 Couples Seeking Adventure
You can make a day of it by combining the hike with a visit to the nearby Lake Crescent Lodge or exploring other scenic spots around the lake. Remember to pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit for an extra special touch. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Rope Scramble
+1 Many hikers describe it as exhilarating and a true test of nerve, especially for those with a fear of heights. Safety First: It's recommended to wear gloves for better grip and to protect your hands during this part of the hike.
Tips for the Rope Section
* Gloves: Essential for grip and hand protection.
* Footwear: Ensure your shoes have excellent traction.
* Patience: Wait your turn and don't rush.
* Focus: Stay aware of your footing and the ropes.
Capturing the Iconic Views
On clear days, the views can extend to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and even Vancouver Island, creating a truly unforgettable photographic opportunity. Best Light: For photographers, the 'golden hours' of early morning and late afternoon often provide the most dramatic lighting, casting a warm glow over the landscape.
However, the sheer beauty of the scene is captivating in any light, provided the weather is clear. Photography Essentials
* Wide-angle lens: To capture the vastness of the landscape.
* Plenty of battery: You'll want to take many photos!
* Clear weather: Essential for the best visibility.
* Patience: Wait for the perfect light and composition.
Understanding the Trail's Challenge
+1 Many hikers describe the initial switchbacks as a significant cardio and endurance test, with limited scenic rewards until higher up. Beyond the maintained trail, the path becomes narrower and more exposed, requiring hikers to use ropes and scramble over rocks.
Key Trail Features
* Steep Switchbacks: The majority of the ascent.
* Rope Scramble: The final, challenging section.
* Exposed Ridge: Narrow path with drop-offs.
* High Elevation Gain: Over 2,000 feet in ~2 miles.
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