Obstruction Point hike

From Obstruction Point take the path leading to the left as you contour under Obstruction Peak. The trail will veer north as you enter the top edge of a humongous valley. As you continue heading north, you will reach an unsigned junction where you will continue straight.

As you contour around the valley the trail on the opposite end will be clearly visible. You will steadily gain elevation. Hiking directly underneath so many peaks can make you feel like a fish out of water. It’s almost as if you are in an alien landscape of black lichen-covered rocks and small, weathered shrubs.

Finally, after undulating up and down for approximately 20-30 minutes you will pass under Elk Mountain, and then you will reach another junction where you will again continue straight. The trail will now start to veer more to the northeast.

After reaching a pass, you will complete one more small climb before contouring around the south side of Maiden Peak. Looking to the south you will see a humongous ridge of snow-covered, unnamed peaks across the valley. From the east side of Maiden Peak you will start descending again and – in due time – enter the tree line, for the first time this hike!

For the next 2.0mi you will continue descending all the way past Green Mountain until you reach the Deer Park Trailhead, where you will find your parked car that you shuttled in before starting. Otherwise, you can retrace your steps back to your car.

Check out more amazing hikes in the Olympic National Park, like the Hoh River Trail or the Ozette Triangle.