An easy one-third mile walk, this maintained trail is a great warm up. The trail goes to the World’s Largest Sitka Spruce, as determined by the American Forestry Association, and can be accessed from a gravel pull-off just past the Rain Forest Resort Village about a mile past the Lake Quinault Lodge.  No visit to the Quinault Rainforest would be complete without visiting this 1000-year old giant.  Once used to build airplanes, the Sitka spruce is an ‘indicator species’, growing only in a temperate rainforest. This Sitka Spruce is one of 6 record-breaking trees located in the Quinault Valley. 

NOTE: Leashed dogs are permitted on this trail.

When people think of the temperate rainforest, they picture the long, draping Oregon selaginella moss, and the tree that attracts that moss - the Big Leaf Maple. The Maple Glade Trail is only one-half mile in length and absolutely beautiful. Located in the Quinault rainforest, 6 miles off Hwy 101 on the North Shore Road at the Park Service ranger station (open in summers), the trail is easy to get to.

In the early morning or late evening the low angle of the sun backlights the mosses and huge leaves and the forest displays every color of green imaginable. This is an easy trail, no hills, maintained by the Park Service, and is “handicapped accessible with assistance”. If you have time for only one short hike, this is the one to do.

NOTE: Dogs are NOT permitted on National Park Service trails.

Anton Kestner arrived here in 1889 and set about claiming his land under the Federal Homestead Act. He and his family lived on the North Shore homesteading the land for many years. The Park Service has developed a trail into the Homestead, which is in the process of being restored as an interpretative area.

For a glimpse into the past, park at the North Shore Ranger Station and access the Kestner Homestead trail via the Maple Glade trail.  You may walk this trail alone or with the Park Ranger during scheduled walks during the summer.

NOTE: Dogs are NOT permitted on this trail.

This trail is only one-third of a mile in length but it is steep with deep steps. It was constructed in the ‘30s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and during the heavy rains of winter can acquire many of the characteristics of a stream so go prepared!

The Western Red Cedar tree has a ‘cathedral’ top and buttress roots giving it multiple ‘rooms’ at the base. This is one of 6 record-breaking large trees in the Quinault Valley.

NOTE: Dogs are NOT permitted on this National Park trail.

The Pony Bridge Trail is perfect for those who wish to get into the back country—but not too far into the back country! The trailhead is located about 17 miles up the South Shore Road past Lake Quinault Lodge. Park at the Graves Creek Trailhead (at the end of the road) and begin your 2.5-mile (each way) hike through old growth forest.

The trail is well marked but be aware that trail conditions can change during winter storms so winter and early-spring hiking may require a certain amount of clambering over fallen trees or other debris. The trail rises gradually most of the way and then drops down to the Pony Bridge. Trekking poles or a hiking stick are handy during the descent to the bridge due to water that can be flowing down the trail much of the year. Roosevelt elk are often seen along this trail and you should also watch out for black bear. Be sure to read the cautionary signs at all trailhead.

NOTE: Dogs are NOT permitted on this National Park trail.