Marmot Pass via Big Quilcene Trail

Follow the Upper Big Quilcene River through miles of mountainside greenery brimming with wildflowers in the summer and aglow with autumnal reds and oranges in the fall to reach alpine highlands and magnificent vistas showcasing the some of the most rugged peaks of the Olympic Range.

From the trailhead, the Upper Big Quilcene Trail #833.1 enters a dense, mossy forest soon crossing into the Buckhorn Wilderness in 0.1 miles and saddling up alongside the Upper Big Quilcene River. Follow the trail’s ups and downs as it works its way up the river valley, staying beneath sheltering trees and keeping an eye out for the flowers that thrive in the cool shade. At 2.5 miles reach Shelter Rock Camp, the namesake shelter now long gone and a popular rest stop before tackling the elevation ahead. With river access and plenty of room off the trail, this is also a good turn-around point for young hikers.

There's a lot more to Marmot Pass, and you can learn all about it in Washington Wildflower Hikes: 50 Destinations. You'll find a trail map, route descriptions, history, and more for this and many other hikes throughout the State. Help support hikingwithmybrother.com and the work we do by picking up a copy!