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Seven Lakes Basin Loop

Olympic National Forest, Washington · 4 min read

Distance
19.2 mi
Elevation Gain
4,500 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
July through September
Dog Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
10 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
None
Parking
Fee Required
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Developed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Seven named alpine lakes in a high subalpine basin
  • Connects Sol Duc River old-growth forest to high ridge terrain
  • Some of the best wilderness camping in Olympic National Park
  • High Divide ridge with views of Mt. Olympus and the Bailey Range
  • Roosevelt elk frequently seen throughout the route

Overview

The Seven Lakes Basin Loop is the premier backpacking circuit in the Sol Duc area of Olympic National Park. The route climbs from old-growth rainforest along the Sol Duc River, gains the High Divide ridge for expansive views of Mt. Olympus and the Bailey Range, passes through a subalpine lake basin at 5,000 feet, and returns via Bogachiel Peak and the Hoh Lake area. The variety of terrain, reliable water, and strong camp locations make it a benchmark route for Olympic Peninsula backpacking.

The loop starts at the Sol Duc Falls Trailhead, which also serves as the access point for the short Sol Duc Falls day hike. Understanding the permit requirements matters before committing to this trip. Olympic National Park has a dedicated backcountry permit system separate from the national forest camping permit structure; see the national forest camping permit guide for general context, and check the Olympic National Park website directly for park-specific permit procedures.

The Seven Lakes Basin sits within Olympic National Park, with Olympic National Forest surrounding the approach corridors. The transition between the two units is essentially invisible on the ground but matters for the permit and fee systems.

The Route

Day 1 Segment (Miles 0 to 7.0): Sol Duc to High Divide

From the Sol Duc Trailhead, the trail follows the Sol Duc River through old-growth forest. The first 0.9 miles to Sol Duc Falls are shared with the day hike and involve minimal elevation gain. From the falls, the trail begins climbing through forest above the river canyon.

The route passes Appleton Pass junction and continues toward the Sol Duc Park meadows, gaining significant elevation through the transition from old-growth forest to subalpine terrain. Sol Duc Park is a broad meadow at approximately 4,500 feet and a common first-night campsite.

From Sol Duc Park, the trail climbs to High Divide ridge at 5,050 feet. The transition onto the ridge brings sudden views of Mt. Olympus, the Bailey Range, and the Hoh drainage below. The view of the Blue Glacier on Mt. Olympus from this ridge is one of the most memorable in the Olympic Mountains.

Day 2 Segment (Miles 7.0 to 13.0): High Divide and Seven Lakes Basin

The High Divide trail traverses the ridge with consistent views. Heart Lake and the Seven Lakes Basin are visible below to the north. The descent into the basin passes through heather meadows and krummholz before reaching the lake zone.

The lakes themselves range from small tarns to Heart Lake, which has the best camping. Fishing for trout is possible in several of the lakes; check current regulations with the park. The basin is a logical two-night location for hikers wanting to slow down and explore.

Day 3 Segment (Miles 13.0 to 19.2): Bogachiel Peak and Return

The loop climbs out of the basin toward Bogachiel Peak and Hoh Lake before descending back toward the Sol Duc drainage. This section passes through more open terrain with views into the Bogachiel River valley to the south. The trail returns to the Sol Duc system and the trailhead via the Canyon Creek route.

When to Visit

July through September is the practical season. Snow covers the High Divide and Seven Lakes Basin through most of June in average years. Late July offers the most reliable snow-free conditions on the ridge. September brings fewer crowds and stable weather but requires awareness of early season snowfall.

What to Bring

  • Many backpackers carry 3 to 4 liters of water capacity, filtering from the numerous lakes and streams. Individual needs vary.
  • A bear canister is strongly recommended and may be required in some zones; verify current regulations and see bear canister requirements.
  • Layered clothing for both warm valley hiking and cold ridge conditions.
  • Detailed topo map and compass. Cell service is absent throughout.
  • Poles for the steep ascent and descent sections.
  • A rain shell for the reliable precipitation.

Practical Details

Olympic National Park entrance fee ($35/vehicle for 7 days as of 2026) and a backcountry camping permit (fee applies as of 2026, verify current amount) are required. Permits can be reserved through the park or obtained as walk-ins at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles. Book early for July and August trips.

Dogs are not permitted. No campfires in the backcountry; a backpacking stove is required for cooking.

For details on the free pass program for veterans, see veteran benefits for national forests. Check current conditions for trail snow reports before your trip.

Getting There

Follow Sol Duc Road from Highway 101 approximately 13 miles to the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort and trailhead. See the Sol Duc Falls guide for full driving directions. The Sol Duc Road opens seasonally; verify current access at the Olympic National Park website.

Trailhead Parking

Sol Duc Falls Trailhead at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. Large paved lot. Olympic National Park entrance fee required ($35/vehicle for 7 days, as of 2026). Backcountry permit required for overnight camping.

← Back to Olympic National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a permit required for the Seven Lakes Basin Loop?
Yes. Olympic National Park backcountry permits are required for overnight camping on this route. Permits can be reserved in advance through the park's permit system or obtained as walk-ins at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles. As of 2026, there is a per-night fee for backcountry permits. Verify current fees and availability at the park website.
How many days does the Seven Lakes Basin Loop take?
Most backpackers complete the loop in 2 to 3 days. A 3-day itinerary is comfortable: Sol Duc to Heart Lake area on day 1, High Divide traverse and descent on day 2, return to trailhead on day 3. Strong hikers can do it in 2 days. A 4-day trip allows for exploration side trips.
Which lakes are in the Seven Lakes Basin?
Heart Lake, Lunch Lake, Lunch Lake (upper), and several unnamed tarns are the primary bodies in the basin. The basin sits just below the High Divide ridge at approximately 5,000 feet and drains into the Sol Duc River system. Hoh Lake is a separate lake on the south side of the route near Bogachiel Peak.
What is the best campsite in the loop?
Heart Lake and the Sol Duc Park area near the High Divide are consistently cited as the most scenic campsite options. These sites require booking in advance in peak season. The park assigns sites by permit zone.
Can I see Mt. Olympus from this route?
Yes. The High Divide ridge provides one of the best non-technical views of Mt. Olympus, the highest peak in the Olympic Mountains at 7,980 feet. The Blue Glacier and Hoh Glacier are visible on clear days from the ridge.