May 2, 2016
Another great workout hike in the Olympic Peninsula. I'd put Mt. Storm
King next to Mt. Rose as the trail is equally steep, but just a mile
shorter.
The hike begins from the Marymere Falls Nature Trail by the Storm King Ranger Station, and in less than a quarter mile you come to the trail sign of Storm King.
The trail climbs steep from the beginning and continues that way all along the journey with little ease. The good news is the hike is less than 2 miles one way! So, take your time and pace yourself. It's worth the effort after all and the reward is a spectacular view of Lake Crescent from the top.
After grueling march through the treeline, views open up with Lake Crescent and surrounding deep green mountain range. There are a series of vantage points along the ledge/saddle, but very exposed!....so, be careful. The trail continues along the narrow ridge gaining more elevation to the top.
To reach the top for a grand vista point, you have to ascend a couple of exposed steep and slippery dirt slopes....sheer drop. There is a rope setup for those steep sections so that you can safely climb. I had a pair of gloves in my pack and they became handy specially for descending....I learned this trick for better grip and not getting blistered when I climbed Yosemite's Half Dome.....no worries, however, Storm King is not that steep or long.
After the exciting and thrilling climb, you finally come to a rocky peak....the vantage point you were waiting for. Take in the breathtaking view....Lake Crescent, Olympic range, Strait of Juan de Fuca and Vancouver Island. I was amazed to see how blue the water is. It was also interesting and educational to be able to look at the region from a bird's eye view and understand how the geological terrains are formed and divided by mountain ranges and waters, which creates characteristic climate conditions in the Olympic region - rain, snow, sunshine/clouds, dry/wet...and sustaining ecology of different landscapes and living things.
When you descend, just be careful and take your time not to slip as you hike down the steep slopes with the assistance of the rope! By the way, wildflowers are blooming....quite a few orchids and they were beautiful! After the hike, I made a quick stop at Lake Crescent Lodge and strolled along the lake shore trail....I was greeted by a couple of deer! The lodge has a picturesque lake view and there is a restaurant/gift shop inside....it's a nice place to relax after the hike and before you hit the road back home!
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