Flapjack Lakes Trail
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Flapjack Lakes Trail is a hard 15.8mi hike in Olympic National Park that offers the chance to relax or camp among two pretty alpine lakes. This trail is long, but it doesn’t offer technical challenges, so it’s suitable for intermediate hikers. There are lots of spur trails to nice viewpoints, and the lakes themselves are easy on the eyes.
Hikers report that some parts of the trail are narrow and steep, but they’re passable for most. Download your GPS route before this hike to help with junctions covered by downed trees.
Getting there
The trailhead for the Flapjacks Lakes Trail is at Staircase Campground. Head up to the parking loop and take the trail near the washrooms.
About
Backcountry Campground | Staircase Campground, Spike Camp, Flapjack Lakes Camp |
When to do | March-October |
Pets allowed | No |
Family friendly | No |
Route Signage | Poor |
Crowd Levels | Moderate |
Route Type | Out and back |
Flapjack Lakes Trail
Elevation Graph
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Flapjack Lakes Trail Description
Flapjack Lakes are two lovely lakes tucked into the mountains. With a campground in between, they’re a popular destination for hikers and backpackers alike. These lakes are reached on a trail that offers enough of a challenge without being technical, although expect steep sections and narrow trail at times. When you soak your feet in the water and enjoy the view, it’ll all be worth it!
Begin from the trailhead at the parking area. Stay to the left as you get on the trail next to the washrooms. The trail to the right is a different hike. The first 4.0mi are easy and the last 4.0mi to the lake get a little more challenging, so enjoy a chill cruise along the river valley. There are lots of creek crossings as you traverse along the North Fork Skokomish River Trail.
At Spike Camp, the trail splits. Stay right onto Flapjack Lakes Trail and begin to switchback before levelling out on a northward traverse. Shortly after crossing Madeline Creek, you’ll begin a straight-up ascent to the lakes.
Dip your feet and soak up the scenery. When you’re ready, return to the trailhead by retracing your steps.
Note: Some parts of the trail are obscured by blowdown. Watch for pink flagging tape marking the way.
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