Local guide

Staircase Rapids Loop, step by step.

The Staircase Rapids Loop is a 2.1-mile loop along the North Fork of the Skokomish River in Olympic National Park. Old-growth Douglas fir, a suspension bridge, and a fallen cedar 14 feet in diameter. About 200 feet of elevation gain, rated easy, doable for most fitness levels and for kids. This is the classic first hike at the park's southeast entrance.

The trail, in order, from the parking lot back to the parking lot.

Written by Assaf, the Olalla Bay editor. Updated October 2026.

Trail stats

• Distance: 2.1 miles, loop
• Elevation gain: About 200 to 225 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Trailhead: Staircase Ranger Station, just over the river bridge
• Fee: National Park entrance fee applies ($30 per vehicle, 7 days; $55 annual park pass; $80 America the Beautiful)
• Dogs: Not allowed on trails inside the national park
• Season: Year-round, though the access road can close in winter

Getting to the trailhead

From the house, drive south to Hoodsport on US-101, then turn onto SR-119 toward Lake Cushman. Drive 9.3 miles to a T-intersection, then turn left and continue 5.4 miles (the road becomes Forest Road 24) to a junction. Turn right, drive 1.2 miles, then turn right at the Staircase Ranger Station for trailhead parking. Total drive from the house: about two hours.

Park in the day-use lot across from the Staircase Campground. Walk to the end of the road and cross the bridge over the Skokomish River to get to the trailhead. There is a sign marking the start of the trail.

Note: the last 1.7 miles of road are gravel. A 2WD sedan can make it if you take your time.

The hike, step by step

The loop can be hiked in either direction. Most people hike clockwise, and that is what this guide follows.

Start: Ranger station to the fork

From the parking lot, cross the bridge over the North Fork Skokomish River. The trailhead is on the other side. Walk a short distance to a fork. Go left for a short out-and-back detour to the fallen western red cedar.

Detour: The fallen cedar

A fallen western red cedar, 14 feet in diameter, with huge root systems. The tree is a fun detour, especially for kids. It adds about 15 minutes to the hike. This is optional, but worth it.

Upstream along the river

Continue on the main trail upstream along the North Fork of the Skokomish River. The west bank is more scenic; this is where you will spend most of your time. The trail follows the river through old-growth forest: Douglas fir, western hemlock, western red cedar. Moss covers the trees and the ground. The river is visible through the trees, with rapids and pools.

There are some sections where the trail narrows and there are small ups and downs and parts with rocks in the trail. Pay attention to where you are stepping.

The suspension bridge

About halfway through the hike, you reach the suspension bridge. It is short but scenic. Cross it for views up and down the river. Many hikers stop here for a snack. Some walk down to the sandy area by the river below the bridge.

After the bridge, the trail continues on the east bank. This side is wider and less scenic than the west bank, but still pleasant forest walking.

Slate Creek crossing

You will need to cross Slate Creek by using a large log bridge. There is a small wooden railing on one side that you can hold onto. The creek is often dry in late summer.

Finish: Back to the parking lot

After Slate Creek, there is a short uphill followed by a short downhill that takes you to the end of the hike. This is probably the hardest part for elevation gain and loss, with rocks and tree roots in the trail. You will finish at the info boards just above the parking lot. Walk down to the toilets if you need them before you leave.

What you will see

Old-growth forest. Douglas fir, western hemlock, western red cedar, some trees hundreds of years old. The forest floor is covered in moss, ferns, and fallen logs.

The river. The North Fork Skokomish River runs alongside the trail for most of the hike. Rapids, pools, and gravel bars. The water is cold and clear.

The bridge. A suspension bridge over the river, the centerpiece of the hike.

The fallen cedar. A massive western red cedar, 14 feet in diameter, fallen across the forest floor with its root system exposed.

Wildlife. Frogs and toads along the trail, birds in the canopy, and the occasional deer. Black bears live in the park; make noise and carry bear spray.

Shady Lane Trail: A second hike

If the Rapids Loop leaves you wanting more, or if you want a shorter, flatter option, try Shady Lane Trail. It is 1.8 miles round trip, also starting near the ranger station. It follows the river downstream, then moves into towering cedars and spruce. A good second hike, or a fine choice for anyone who wants the old-growth feel without the bridge crossing.

Beyond the loop

Staircase is also the launching point for longer days. The North Fork Skokomish River Trail heads deeper into the park toward Flapjack Lakes. Wagonwheel Lake is a longer haul. These are full-day efforts for experienced hikers. Backcountry permits are required for overnights.

Important: as of 2026, wilderness trails beyond the Rapids Loop remain closed due to Bear Gulch Fire damage. The Bear Gulch Fire of July 2025 grew to more than 20,000 acres and became the largest wildfire on the Olympic Peninsula since 1951. The developed area, campground, ranger station, and Rapids Loop reopened on July 8, 2026, but wilderness trails beyond them remain closed while crews assess hazards and repair bridges. Check nps.gov/olym before planning anything longer.

Practical notes

• There are no toilet facilities on the trail. Toilets are at the parking lot and ranger station.
• Bring water. There is no drinking water on the trail.
• Leave No Trace: stay on the trail, pack out what you bring, do not approach or feed wildlife.
• Staircase access road can close in winter. If the road is closed, park at the picnic area and walk one mile up the road to the trailhead.
• Cell service is sparse. Download maps before you leave the house.
• Check nps.gov/olym for current alerts before any trip.

Questions people ask

How long is the Staircase Rapids Loop?

2.1 miles, loop. About 200 to 225 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers finish in 1.5 to 2 hours.

Is Staircase Rapids Loop kid-friendly?

Yes. The trail is rated easy, with mild elevation changes. It works for kids and for most fitness levels. The suspension bridge is a highlight for kids.

Are dogs allowed on Staircase Rapids Loop?

No. Dogs are not allowed on trails inside Olympic National Park.

Do you need a pass for Staircase?

Yes. Olympic National Park charges an entrance fee. Private vehicle $30 for 7 days. Annual park pass $55. America the Beautiful pass $80.

Is Staircase open in 2026?

The developed area, campground, ranger station, and Rapids Loop reopened July 8, 2026 after the Bear Gulch Fire. Wilderness trails beyond the loop remain closed. Check nps.gov/olym for current status.