For a few days, Derek and I camped over by Lake Cushman in the Staircase section of Olympic National Park. This part of the park is accessed from Hoodsport, WA along the canal, and then a long road which turns to dirt along the north side of the lake.
How did it get it’s name? In 1890, Lieutenant Joseph P. O’Neil led the first exploratory expedition across the entire southern stretch of the Olympic Mountains. His group of soldiers and scientists surveyed the watersheds and peaks of nine rivers and their tributaries. They cut a 5-foot swath of trail across 93 miles of wilderness. The rock bluff across the river from our camp spot was a major obstacle. To get over it they built a cedar staircase and the name lasted.
After setting up the trailer we headed out to hike the Rapids and Four Stream Trails from camp. The trails winds through old growth forest to a bridge over the North Fork Skokomish River. Before crossing the bridge, we opted to continue left on the Four Streams Trail. This is more rugged with lots of roots and rocks to negotiate. We stopped at Beaver Flats to check out the river, and continued on a bit before doubling back.
Back at the bridge intersection, this time we crossed it and took in the sights. This is a fantastic spot to take a dip on a hot day, or just sit and enjoy the river. It can get pretty busy here on hot days and weekends I’m told. I didn’t encounter any mosquitos, thankfully! From here the hike goes up and then inland a bit as it circles back to the campground.
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