Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,197 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
23.5 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
7.5-10.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

Appleton Pass via Sol Duc Falls

Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Table of contents

Appleton Pass via Sol Duc Falls can be done either as a long day hike or a backpacking trip. To complete this hard hike in a day is a feat, but it can be done. With 14.6mi and 3927ft of elevation gain required, it’s a big trip, but the views from the pass are quite rewarding. Poles, lots of water, and food are recommended for this day trip.

Route Description for Appleton Pass via Sol Duc Falls

Getting to Appleton Pass and back is a full-day venture, but the views from your perch beside Mount Appleton will be worth it. This is a hard, lightly trafficked trail, so come prepared.

Begin from the end of the road on the trail to Sol Duc Falls. You’ll hike to the falls, always a pretty stop, before continuing on. More and more of the crowd will thin out as you hike above the Sol Duc River. As you rise above the river to start climbing the valley wall, stay left onto Appleton Pass Trail. There is a creek crossing that can be used to refill your water just after the junction.

After the crossing, begin switchbacking and traversing up the valley wall, packing in elevation gain up to the pass. It’s a grind, but the trail remains easy enough to follow. Cresting the pass, there are trails that continue on to your left and right, but your journey ends at the junction. From here, retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Appleton Pass via Sol Duc Falls Trailhead

The trailhead for Appleton Pass via Sol Duc Falls is at the end of Sol Duc Hot Springs Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Appleton Pass

  • When to do:

    July-October

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Appleton Pass via Sol Duc Falls Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews

0.0
No reviews
Write a review
×

Add a review

You must be logged in to post a comment.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

10Adventures Trail App

Take your trails online! Keep track of your route along the way.

Download for free today.

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter