The best running trails in Olympic National Forest

The Mount Townsend Trail offers a challenging yet incredibly rewarding jogging experience, transitioning from dense forests of Douglas firs and hemlocks to expansive alpine meadows. As you climb, the scenery dramatically opens up, revealing sweeping vistas of the Olympic Mountains, the Salish Sea, and even the distant Seattle skyline. In late June through August, the trail is particularly vibrant with wildflowers like lupines and scarlet paintbrush, adding a splash of color to the already stunning landscape.

This difficult 7.8-mile (12.5 km) route involves a substantial 2887 feet (880 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 6 minutes to jog. The climb is steady with many switchbacks, so be prepared for continuous uphill effort and ensure you carry plenty of water. The trail is often snow-free earlier than others in the Olympics, but the best time to visit for wildflowers and clear views is generally late June through August.

Mount Townsend is one of the most frequently climbed peaks in the Olympics, celebrated for its truly epic 360-degree panoramic views from the summit. Its accessibility, combined with a remote, high-alpine feel and the opportunity to traverse diverse ecosystems, makes it a standout destination on the Olympic Peninsula for trail runners and hikers alike.

The Lena Lake Trail #810 offers a classic Olympic Peninsula experience, winding through lush, moss-covered old-growth forest to the serene Lower Lena Lake. You'll follow a singletrack path, crossing impressive bridges and listening to Lena Creek, as you steadily climb towards the picturesque 55-acre sub-alpine lake. Expect a beautiful journey through ferns and wild rhododendrons, making the consistent uphill effort well worth it for the scenic reward.

This difficult 6.2 miles (9.9 km) route involves 1497 feet (456 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hours and 27 minutes for joggers. Parking at the trailhead fills up quickly, especially in summer, so an early start is highly recommended. Remember to bring waterproof footwear, as the trail can be wet with numerous streams, and a $5 per vehicle/per day fee or a Recreation Pass is required.

Beyond its natural beauty, the area holds historical significance as the site of Camp Cleland, a 1930s Boy Scout basecamp. Around 1.9 miles in, you'll pass a dry creek bed with massive boulders, a geological reminder of an ancient earthquake that helped form Lena Lake. The trail also offers extension options, connecting to the Upper Lena Lake Trail #811 and The Brothers Trail #821 for those seeking more challenging adventures into Olympic National Park.

The Mount Walker Trail loop Run offers a challenging journey through lush, moss-covered forests, where dense Douglas-fir and cedar create a serene, green tunnel. As you ascend, the forest occasionally opens to reveal glimpses of the Olympic Mountains, building anticipation for the summit. The highlight is undoubtedly the panoramic vista from the Mount Walker North Viewpoint, showcasing the Hood Canal, Puget Sound, and distant peaks like Mount Rainier.

This difficult 6.2-mile (10.0 km) jogging route involves a significant 2005 feet (611 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 25 minutes. The trail is steep, with sections up to 25%, making it an excellent option for vigorous hill training. While accessible year-round, note that the road to the summit closes to vehicles in winter, potentially adding a short walk to the trailhead.

Mount Walker is unique as the only peak facing Puget Sound with both a trail and a road to its summit, offering year-round access that's rare for the region. The profusion of Pacific rhododendrons in late spring and June is a particularly notable feature, transforming the mountain into a "purple mountain majesty" and making it a standout trail in the Olympic National Forest.

The Kloshe Nanitch Trail offers a challenging jogging experience, transforming from a gentle forest path into a steep climb through a diverse temperate forest valley. As you ascend, you'll pass small waterfalls and enter a higher elevation Silver Fir Zone, culminating in the Kloshe Nanitch Viewpoint with its sweeping views of the Sol Duc Valley, Mount Olympus, and Lake Crescent. This difficult 5.7-mile (9.2 km) route, with its 2201 feet (671 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for those seeking a rewarding workout and a sense of solitude.

Access to the trail is primarily from the West Snider Road entrance. While specific parking information isn't detailed, arriving early is always a good strategy, especially during peak seasons. The trail is dog-friendly from this entrance, making it a great option if you want to bring your canine companion along. Spring and summer are ideal for visiting, offering abundant wildflowers and the best chances for clear, expansive views from the summit.

If you're seeking a truly immersive forest run, the Lower Big Quilcene Trail delivers a captivating experience. This route winds through primeval old-growth cedars and towering hemlocks, often on a moss-lined path, with the Big Quilcene River as your constant companion. You'll encounter moist earthy needled duff, damp roots, and rocks underfoot, making for engaging lowland forested singletrack. Keep an eye out for small waterfalls tucked away in the ancient woods, especially after rain.

This moderate 7.3-mile (11.7 km) jogging trail features 965 feet (294 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 31 minutes to complete. Access requires a valid Recreation Pass (Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Pass) for day use at the trailhead. The trail is dog friendly, but be mindful of other users as it's a multi-use path shared with hikers, mountain bikers, and even pack animals.

The Lower Big Quilcene Trail is notable for its consistent proximity to the river, providing a soothing natural soundtrack throughout your run. It's located within a drinking water watershed, so users are reminded to respect the environment. The presence of ancient trees and the river's energetic rapids make this a standout option among jogging trails in the Olympic National Forest.