Backpack to O'Neil Creek, where we camp beneath an old growth forest and fall asleep to the hum of the Quinault
Meet your guides and fellow travelers early this morning at our Seattle area host-hotel. We're then off on our transfer to the Enchanted Valley trailhead.
Dripping mosses. Towering old growth. Luscious fern. Creeping lichen. Only a few steps down the trailhead and we're already enveloped into a fairytale land of vibrant shades of green. A favorite foraging site for many of park's resident mammals, this area is also prime habitat for deer, elk, beaver, river otter, and bear. The deeper we travel into the valley the easier it is to see why Franklin Roosevelt designated the area a National Park in 1938 and why it has also been named an International Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site. Once in camp we'll set up our comfortable home-away-from-home before enjoying a well-deserved backcountry meal with new friends. Lunch and Dinner included.
Backpacking: 6.7 miles, elevation gain: approximately 1,273'; Transfer: 3.5-4 hours.
Hike from O'Neil Creek to the majestic Enchanted Valley
Today's journey is into the heart of the Enchanted Valley. The lush rainforest and mighty Quinault River continue to be our constant companions throughout this section of trail. As the route climbs gently, our guides provide valuable insight, tips, and tricks on backpacking technique. Just before reaching Enchanted Valley, we're treated to spectacular views of the Quinault River as we cross a high bridge spanning its crystal-clear waters. We'll take a breather here before our final push into the valley. Finally, with much anticipation, we've arrived! Breaking out of the forest we're surrounded by craggy peaks, expansive meadows, and tumbling waterfalls. We'll set up camp here and the rest of the afternoon is up to us. Whether relaxing amidst jaw-dropping scenery or taking photos of the famous Enchanted Valley Chalet, the evening promises to be a memorable immersion into this backcountry paradise. All meals included.
Backpacking: 6.4 miles, elevation gain: approximately 1,060'.
Hike from Enchanted Valley back to our charming campsite at O'Neil Creek
As we bid the Enchanted Valley farewell, we'll follow our original footsteps back to O'Neil Creek. With a practiced set of eyes and more trail experience under our belts, our return journey takes on new meaning. We may now be able to identify the petals of a native wildflower or notice the signs that a bear has been foraging for insects in an old stump. This evening we'll set up our final camp at O'Neil Creek and enjoy a last backcountry meal together. All meals included.
Backpacking: 6.4 miles, elevation loss: approximately 1,060'.
Follow the path of the beautiful Quinault River back to the Graves Creek trailhead
We wake this morning and enjoy a backcountry breakfast before packing up camp and hiking back to the trailhead. Our last few hours together are spent on a journey of reflection. We'll compare highs and lows and talk through the things we've learned during our adventure. Back at the trailhead, with a successful adventure behind us, we'll load into our shuttle van and begin our transfer to the Seattle area. We anticipate arriving in the late afternoon, though this may vary depending on group pace, trail conditions, weather, and other factors beyond our control. Breakfast and lunch included.
Backpacking: 6.7 miles, elevation loss: 1,273'; Transfer: 3.5 hours.