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Hikes/United States/Washington State/Olympic National Park
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.
218 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
2.4 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.
1-1.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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PJ Lake Trail

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Table of contents

PJ Lake Trail is a heavily trafficked out-and-back trail in Olympic National Park that is rated as hard. This 1.5mi trek isn’t long, but it’s very steep on the way back from the lake, with a dusty trail that tends to slip out from under you. Some hikers feel the lake is underwhelming, but the waterfall along the trail is a pleasant sight. Take lots of water and trekking poles on this hike.

Route Description for PJ Lake Trail

PJ Lake Trail is a bit of a controversial hike. This trail is loved by some for its waterfall, its physical challenge, and its short length. It’s loathed by others for the somewhat underwhelming lake, the overgrowth and blowdown, and the very steep, slippery trail you have to climb on the return trip. Give it a shot and see what you think!

We strongly recommend bringing poles for this hike in addition to plenty of water. Also, if it’s socked in with fog, consider leaving it for another day.

The trail begins from the roadside, heading east down a forest slope. You’ll quickly lose elevation over some straight sections and some uneven switchbacks. If the blowdown is particularly bad, expect to need to climb under and over fallen trees.

The trail isn’t hard to follow, so you’ll be able to find your way to the lake without too much navigational difficulty. The lake itself can be buggy and it’s nothing spectacular, so we recommend spending a bit more time appreciating the waterfall instead.

There’s no good trail to loop the lake, so turn back and retrace your steps to the trailhead. This is where things get dicey—the trail is quite steep and loose in parts, so poles and some gusto are recommended to get back to the starting point.

Getting to the PJ Lake Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the PJ Lake Trail is on Obstruction Point Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    June-October

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

PJ Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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