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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
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.
1,245 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
16.9 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.
6.5-9h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Lake Sundown Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

Lake Sundown Trail is a 10.5mi out-and-back hike in Olympic National Park that sees little traffic. Despite this, it’s quite well-kept and easy to follow. With undulating elevation changes and great viewpoints along the trail, it’s a hike that keeps you engaged despite a slightly longer total length. Note that this trail is subject to seasonal closures to protect the elk population of the area. This is normally from October through April.

Route Description for Lake Sundown Trail

Lake Sundown Trail is a lightly trafficked hike that offers gorgeous mountain and lake views. Despite being fairly remote, this trail is quite well-kept and easy to follow.

The last few kilometres before the trailhead are inaccessible October-April to protect elk in the area. Plan your trip outside of these times. While the road in isn’t terrible, you may want a 4WD vehicle with higher clearance.

Beginning from the end of the road on Wynoochee Pass Trail, begin gradually climbing, rounding the end of the rudge up to Discovery Peak. There are a pair of creek crossings before the trail straightens out again.

You’ll cross the Wynoochee River next. Some hikers prefer to cross a bit further up the trail than where the GPS route indicates, but you can cross wherever you prefer. The trail runs up alongside the river a ways on the other side, so you should be able to find it again easily.

Wave your way up the opposite side of the valley face, then straighten out as you climb. There is one sharp turn to the right that takes you across a stream to a set of narrow switchbacks. At the junction, stay left to the lake, which will be on your right.

After enjoying the lake, turn around and retrace your steps to the trailhead.

Getting to the Lake Sundown Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the Lake Sundown Trail is at Wynoochee Pass at the end of Forest Road 2270-400.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Lake Sundown

  • When to do:

    May-September

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Lake Sundown Trail Elevation Graph

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