Constance Pass Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Commonly Backpacked · Views · Wildflowers

From Boulder Camp, the path south, leading up to Constance Pass steadily climbs high and higher, giving off grand views of majestic mountains and stunning terrain. For 3.7 miles, as you head toward Home Lake Camp, the trail leaves the forest for good, exposing you to ever-growing views and panoramas behind you. Home Lake is a stunning lake that makes for a great camp far from the masses. It is also close enough to Constance Pass that those interested could go up and enjoy sunset form the Pass before making their way back down. While the trail is steep at times, the views refresh the soul as you push your way up past the lake to Constance Pass. Along this section, late lingering snow can impede your progress, as can the mountain goats who call the rocky mountains home.

At Constance Pass, the whole Olympic Range seems to expand out in every direction, showing off the ridiculously beautiful and isolated regions of the National Park. Take some time here and enjoy the sights and sounds, for the next 5.1 miles drop sharply down toward the Dosewallips River Valley. With amazing panoramas, make sure you snap numerous pictures here. Many are tired from the climb up and forget, but don't let the photos slip your mind!

Once the views have fed your wanderlust, start the descent. Losing over 4,000 feet in such a short distance, your toes may be screaming at you, but the view continues to impress. As you get closer to the river, the views are replaced by gorgeous stands of trees and the sound of running water.

During the late spring months, this trail erupts in wildflowers in all directions. In the distance, whistles from marmots can be heard, while occasional deer, mountain goat and rare black bear can be spotted.