Lena Lake Trail

Lena Lake is a scenic, relaxing spot. Most hikers can make it up this trail, which has a few steeper sections but requires no significant effort. You’ll hike through a wonderful mature forest, seeing waterfalls, creeks, old-growth trees, and wildlife as you hike.

This trail can be wet because of all the rivulets and creeks that cross it. Trail crews are continually working to divert water flow away from the hiking path, but waterproof footwear is the best choice if you’re planning a trip.

There is camping available at Lena Lake if you’re wanting to plan a backpacking trip.

Start from the trailhead off the road. You’ll begin hiking uphill into the forest on a fairly well-maintained trail. There are spots that are rocky or rooty, but for the most part, it’s smooth sailing. Listen for Lena Creek flowing downhill as you switchback through the trees.

Traverse away from the creek. There are plenty of water crossings to navigate, but the larger ones offer bridges to keep you dry. In the springtime when the water flow is high, you might need to do some hopping over rivulets.

After a 1.0mi, you’ll begin passing through an old-growth and second-growth forest. In here, there’s a bit of an oddity to be found: look for a genuinely massive boulder many, many years old. It was likely dropped off by a glacier.

Shortly after the boulder, you’ll (curiously enough) cross a bridge over a dry creekbed. Continue to a fork about three miles into the trail.

You can drop down to the lakeshore on the right-hand trail, but continuing on the left-hand path for about a quarter of a mile takes you to a fantastic viewpoint of Lena Lake. There isn’t lake access from this trail, but it’s a good spot to relax. We recommend taking the right-hand path first to explore the lakeshore and then backtracking to the left trail to see the viewpoint.

When you’re ready, retrace your steps back through the forest to the trailhead.

Trail Highlights

Lower Lena Lake

Lena Lake is a pretty lake nestled into the forests of Olympic National Park. This lake offers the chance to hike and camp and is accessible for beginners and families. Lower Lena Lake is the larger lake most groups visit. Further up the trail, the much smaller Upper Lena Lake can be found.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lena Lake dog-friendly?

Dogs are allowed to Lower Lena Lake, but not on the trail to Upper Lena Lake, as this trail is in national park territory. They must be kept on a leash.

Can you swim in Lena Lake?

Yes, you can swim in the lake.

What pass do I need for Lena Lake?

You’ll need a valid Recreation Pass.