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ForestMatters, LLC

Mount Storm King

Olympic National Forest, Washington · 4 min read

Distance
4.4 mi
Elevation Gain
1,700 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Dog Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
10 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Flush Restroom
Parking
Fee Required
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
At Trailhead
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Dramatic aerial views of Lake Crescent from 1,700 feet above
  • The deepest lake in Washington State visible below
  • Old-growth Douglas fir and western hemlock on the lower trail
  • Ropes assist on the steep summit approach
  • Close-up view of the Olympic Mountains interior from the viewpoint

Overview

Mount Storm King looms directly above Lake Crescent's south shore, and the trail that climbs it goes from pleasant old-growth forest walk to demanding hand-and-rope ascent within two miles. For hikers who want a genuine challenge in the Lake Crescent area, Storm King delivers: the upper section is steep enough to require fixed ropes, and the viewpoint at the top looks straight down on one of Washington's most beautiful lakes from 1,700 feet above.

Lake Crescent is the geographic centerpiece of this part of Olympic National Forest and the park. The lake is uncommonly deep (624 feet) and clear, with a blue color visible from the mountain that contrasts sharply with the surrounding dark green forest. The perspective from Storm King's viewpoint is aerial in character: you are looking down on the lake as a bird would, with the lake's shape and the ridgelines surrounding it fully visible.

The trail begins at the same trailhead as the Marymere Falls walk, making it convenient to combine both on the same trip. Most visitors do Marymere Falls first, on the easy lower trail, then commit to the Storm King climb.

The Route

Miles 0 to 0.9: Shared Trail and Junction

The trail begins from the Storm King Ranger Station parking area and heads west through old-growth Douglas fir and western hemlock. The path is wide and well-maintained in this section, shared with the Marymere Falls route. After crossing Barnes Creek via a footbridge, the trail reaches a junction: Marymere Falls continues straight, and the Storm King trail climbs left.

Miles 0.9 to 1.7: Forest Climb

From the junction, the Storm King trail immediately steepens. The path climbs through old-growth forest on a series of tight switchbacks. The trail surface is packed earth and exposed roots. Views are limited through the canopy but the forest itself is impressive, with large trees and a quiet understory.

At approximately 1.5 miles, the grade increases further and the first fixed ropes appear on the steepest sections. The ropes are there to assist balance on terrain where the angle approaches 40 to 50 degrees. Use them for balance rather than hauling yourself up.

Miles 1.7 to 2.2: Summit Approach

The trail reaches a rocky viewpoint at approximately 2.2 miles where the maintained trail effectively ends. This viewpoint at roughly 2,000 feet above sea level is the conventional turnaround point. Lake Crescent is visible directly below, and the Olympic Mountains rise to the south. The full summit of Mount Storm King requires an additional unmaintained scramble that the park does not recommend.

When to Visit

May through October is the reliable season. The lower trail sections are accessible year-round in mild winters. The upper steep section can be slippery when wet, which is frequent on the Olympic Peninsula. Dry summer weather from July through September provides the most stable conditions for the steep upper section.

Check conditions before visiting. Rain makes the root-covered upper trail hazardous. The lower Marymere Falls section is worthwhile even in rain.

What to Bring

  • Solid hiking boots with good traction. Trail runners or light shoes are not recommended for the steep upper section.
  • Gloves are useful for the rope sections.
  • Many hikers carry 1.5 to 2 liters of water. Individual needs vary.
  • Trekking poles help on the steep descent but should be stowed when using the ropes.
  • A light rain layer is always sensible on the Olympic Peninsula.

Practical Details

Olympic National Park entrance fee ($35/vehicle for 7 days as of 2026) is collected at the Highway 101 park boundary. Flush restrooms are available at the Storm King Ranger Station area near the trailhead. Dogs are not permitted on this trail.

For veterans and active military seeking information on free pass programs, see veteran benefits for national forests. For context on the difference between national forest and national park jurisdiction and fees, see the national forest vs. national park guide.

Check current trail conditions particularly after rain events, as wet conditions on the upper trail significantly increase fall risk.

Getting There

The Storm King Trailhead is located on the south shore of Lake Crescent along Highway 101, approximately 18 miles west of Port Angeles. Look for the signed Storm King Ranger Station turnoff on the south side of the highway. The parking area is small; arrive early on summer weekends.

From Port Angeles, the drive is approximately 25 minutes west on Highway 101. From Forks, drive east approximately 30 miles. The Lake Crescent Lodge is visible from the highway and provides a landmark for the trailhead area.

Trailhead Parking

Storm King Trailhead near the Marymere Falls junction on the south shore of Lake Crescent, off Highway 101. Small paved lot. Olympic National Park entrance fee required ($35/vehicle for 7 days, as of 2026).

← Back to Olympic National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Mount Storm King climb?
The trail is rated strenuous. The upper section becomes very steep and uses fixed ropes for assistance. Hikers without experience on steep, root-covered terrain should assess their comfort before proceeding beyond the ropes section. The lower trail to Marymere Falls is easy and worth doing separately if the upper climb is not appropriate.
Are the ropes on Mount Storm King safe?
The fixed ropes assist with balance on extremely steep terrain near the summit approach. They are there to help but should not be the primary means of support. Test each rope before weighting it and use your legs rather than pulling on the rope. The USFS and NPS do not guarantee rope condition; use caution.
What is Lake Crescent?
Lake Crescent is the deepest lake in Washington State at about 624 feet. It formed when a landslide dammed two river valleys roughly 7,000 years ago. The lake's exceptional clarity comes from naturally low nitrogen levels that limit algae growth. The blue of the lake viewed from Storm King is one of the more striking sights in the Olympics.
Can I combine Mount Storm King with Marymere Falls?
Yes. Marymere Falls is a 1.8-mile round trip from the same trailhead and is an easy add-on. The trails share the first portion of the approach. Starting with Marymere Falls and then climbing Storm King makes for a good full morning or half-day outing.
Is this trail safe for children?
The lower trail to Marymere Falls is popular with families. The upper Storm King climb above the ropes section is not recommended for young children due to the steep and exposed terrain. The park asks visitors to use their judgment on route selection.