State: Washington
Location: Olympic National Park
Length, Round Trip: 3.8 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 600 feet
Maximum Elevation: 700 feet
Elevation Change: 100 feet
Trail Surface: Maintained
Best Season: Summer
Difficulty: Easy
Usage: Heavy
Mount Ranier
Trail Information
The West Lake Mills Trail begins at the boat launch on the northern shore of Lake Mills. The trail leads south gaining elevation slightly. Within a half mile of the trailhead the track crosses a small stream and continues to ascend steadily. The trail reaches a high point of 700 feet less than one mile south of the trailhead then follows the contours of the lake at that level. The trail enters occasional clearings with views east across the lake and north and south along the lake. Just under two miles from the trailhead, the trail ends abruptly on a high cliff above the lake. Boulder Creek empties into the lake immediately below of this cliff.
Directions
From Port Angeles:
Take Highway 101 west approximately 8 miles to Elwha River Road. Turn left and follow the road south into Olympic National Park veer right as the Whiskey Bend Road leads to the left. Follow this road to the Lake Mills boat launch. Park in the day-use parking area and begin this hike from the trailhead along the lake.
