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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.
1,159 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
25.4 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.
7.5-11h
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

Royal Basin and Royal Lake Hike

Measurement:

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Table of contents

Royal Basin and Royal Lake make for a long hike, hitting over 15.5mi of distance and over 3609ft of elevation gain. This is a challenging hike, but there are no technical sections to contend with. You can backpack along this trail to break it up or just enjoy a big day of adventure! The terrain changes throughout the hike and the elevation gain is never overwhelming.

Route Description for Royal Basin and Royal Lake Hike

Royal Basin and Royal Lake are breathtaking, and the hike to get there will definitely leave you feeling like you earned the views. This long hike is tough, but it’s not technical and the elevation gain is somewhat spread out.

Begin from the trailhead off the road, taking Upper Dungeness Trail along the Dungeness River. At the junction with Royal Basin Trail, go right and then immediately keep left. Now hiking alongside Royal Creek, you’ll hug the river in the narrow valley all the way to the lake. Expect a smooth first three miles followed by a rockier push to the lake.

From the lake, things get a bit steeper as you climb up to the basin, where the trail terminates beside a small unnamed body of water. Not all hikers have the gas in the tank to get to the basin, but it’s worth the effort. The steep bits don’t last too long. It’s pretty divine up in the basin, so take some time to relax. When you’re ready, retrace your steps to the trailhead.

Getting to the Royal Basin and Royal Lake Hike Trailhead

The trailhead for the Royal Basin and Royal Lake hike is on Forest Road 2870 at the parking lot with the restrooms.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Royal Lake Backcountry

  • When to do:

    May-October

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Loop

Royal Basin and Royal Lake Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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