USA Kestner Creek Trail

The Quinault Valley receives an average of 12 feet of rain per year which maintains the temperate rainforest ecosystem. This 1.3 mile (2.1 km) loop trail leads you through large big-leaf maples hanging with rain forest mosses. The enormous moss-draped maples give the forest a cathedral feel. Elk are commonly seen here. The trail ends at the Kestner Homestead, established in 1891.

I like early morning light here. The bears do too so be “Bear Aware”. On the one hand, you want to respect the solitude of the rainforest. On the other hand, you don’t want to surprise large 700 pound carnivores. Make noise while walking through bear country. Bears are most active early in the morning and late in the afternoon. We carry bear spray, talk loudly, and sing (scary but effective) or whistle. I’ve been there numerous times though, and have never seen one up close.

Drive north on Highway 101 from Hoquiam for 41 miles. Here, you're in Amanda Park. Turn onto North Shore Road (a right) and drive for 5.7 miles to the Olympic National Park ranger station. The trail departs from a trailhead near the ranger station.  National Park Pass is required. The Maple Glade trail leaves from the same parking lot.