Lower South Fork Skokomish Trail

Parking is available at the main trailhead, known as the Skokomish Lower South Fork Trailhead. You will need a Northwest Forest Pass for day use. An alternative starting point is the LeBar Horse Camp, which can help you bypass some of the initial steep climb.

Yes, a Northwest Forest Pass is required for day use at the trailhead. This pass covers the parking fee for recreational sites in the Olympic National Forest. You can find more information on the USDA website: usda.gov.

The trail is generally rated as easy to moderate. While the initial section from the main trailhead has aggressive, steep uphill switchbacks, much of the path levels out and meanders alongside the river. It's a multi-use trail, popular with hikers, runners, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Families can enjoy shorter segments, especially if starting from LeBar Horse Camp to avoid the steepest initial climb.

This trail is suitable for year-round use due to its lower elevation, making it an excellent option even during the rainy season when higher-elevation trails are snow-covered. Mid-summer is ideal for easier river crossings, as water levels are typically shallower. Spring and summer offer wildflowers in the meadows, while the lush forest is beautiful in any season.

The terrain varies from wide, well-maintained sections to more rugged paths further along. You'll encounter some steep uphill switchbacks near the main trailhead, followed by gentle grades alongside the river. There are plenty of 'ups and downs' and some steep climbs throughout. You may also need to cross cascading creeks, which can wet your boots, and potentially navigate river fords, especially outside of mid-summer.

You'll be immersed in dense forests of Douglas fir, western hemlock, and cedar, including magnificent old-growth trees. The trail parallels the South Fork Skokomish River, offering serene water views. Look for small waterfalls and cascades around the 3.1-mile mark, bluffs with great river views, and a beautiful meadow that blooms with wildflowers in spring and summer. The forest floor is rich with ferns, mosses, huckleberries, and blackberries.

Yes, the Lower South Fork Skokomish Trail is dog-friendly. As it's a multi-use trail, please ensure your dog is on a leash and you practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all waste.

The area is home to diverse wildlife. Hikers might spot river otters, beavers, various bird species like kingfishers and herons, and even Roosevelt elk. Keep an eye out for these creatures, especially near the river.

Yes, the route primarily follows the South Fork Skokomish River Trail 873. It also passes through sections officially known as the Lower South Fork Skokomish River Trail #873 and Trail 873.2. For those seeking extended backpacking, it connects to the Upper South Fork Skokomish Trailhead.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can find historical points of interest such as the old LeBar Claim, Church Creek Shelter, and Harps Shelter. These add a touch of history to your journey through the ancient forests.

To bypass some of the aggressive, steep uphill switchbacks at the beginning of the trail, consider starting your hike at the LeBar Horse Camp instead of the main Skokomish Lower South Fork Trailhead. This alternative starting point offers a gentler introduction to the trail.