Are dogs allowed on Happy Lake Ridge Trail?

No, dogs are not permitted on Happy Lake Ridge Trail. This is typical in many national parks and wildlife refuges — check for a nearby dog-friendly alternative.

Do I need a permit to hike Happy Lake Ridge Trail?

No, Happy Lake Ridge Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Happy Lake Ridge Trail?

Happy Lake Ridge Trail is rated expert. It is 19.2 miles long with 8,556 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Happy Lake Ridge Trail?

Happy Lake Ridge Trail is best hiked in summer and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Is Happy Lake Ridge Trail suitable for kids?

Happy Lake Ridge Trail is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Washington trail conditions

ExpertOut and Back

Olympic National Park/Washington

Happy Lake Ridge Trail

Port Angeles, Washington

19.2 mi

Distance

8,556 ft

Elev. Gain

10h 15m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

The Happy Lake Ridge Trail is a challenging 19.2-mile out-and-back trail located in the heart of Olympic National Park, near Port Angeles, Washington. This expert-level trail offers hikers a strenuous adventure, with a significant elevation gain of approximately 8556 feet. The trail leads through diverse ecosystems ranging from dense forests to alpine meadows, showcasing the remarkable biodiversity of the park. A dirt surface makes the trail rugged and potentially slippery, especially in wet conditions. The trail's high point reaches 1623 meters, providing sweeping views of the surrounding landscapes.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

steep elevation gainpotential for inclement weatherrugged terrain

Elevation Profile

Min:543 ft

Max:1,623 ft

2,608 ft

Trail Details

No dogs

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:360-565-3130
Address:Olympic National Park Visitor Center, 3002 Mount Angeles Road · Port Angeles, WA · 98362

Best Seasons

Summer Fall

Highlights

forest settingalpine meadowspanoramic views

Reviews

No reviews yet

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.