Staircase Rapids Loop

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · River/Creek · Waterfall

This is a short, beautiful loop hike that leaves from the Staircase Ranger Station and follows the North Fork of the Skokomish River upstream to Staircase Rapids. At just over 2 miles, this mostly level loop is a great option for families staying in Staircase Campgroun,d or anyone looking for a short walk to combine with a day on Lake Cushman. - Overview by Halvor Tweto, Outdoor Project.

Olympic National Park fee or parks pass is required for entry. Note that in the winter, the trailhead may be reachable but the road does not receive winter maintenance.

Beginning from the ranger station, the Staircase Rapids Nature Trail crosses a bridge and ventures into quintessential Olympic forest of tall trees. Lush sword ferns and mosses create a dense understory, and the trail cuts a narrow path through the foliage. The trail sticks close to the river, providing views of rushing water for most of the way.

In just under a mile you'll reach a junction. Take a right and cross an impressive suspension bridge over the river. Enjoy the long and terraced rapid from several perspectives, including from the bridge. At low flows, the setting here can be calm and tame. Seasonal snowmelt and rains can transform this area into quite a torrent, however, so be sure to watch younger hikers if you are exploring during the winter and spring. Once you have finished here, cross the bridge and return downstream along the North Fork Skokomish River Trail.

For much of this portion of the loop, the trail stays farther away from the river, leaving you to enjoy the thick woods. You'll encounter Slate Creek, which is worth a little exploration, and roughly a half-mile later the trail returns you to the campground and ranger station.

Western redcedar, hemlock, and Douglas-fir are the dominant trees in this Olympic rain forest.