Trail of the week: Striped Peak
Striped Peak
HIKE DESCRIPTION: On a clear day atop Striped Peak, you can see Canada, ships navigating the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Mount Baker.
But the view from the short, tree-covered hill near Joyce is just one of the highlights of this walk that starts at the Salt Creek Recreation Area. The trail is well-marked thanks to signs made by a local Boy Scout troop, and it climbs sometimes gradually, sometimes steeply through lush green forest. The trail crosses several small creeks and offers a stunning side trip to a secluded cove.
The well-marked side trip is short but steep with a trail-side waterfall serving as a perfect spot for a quick break.
The steeper sections of trail can be muddy and slippery in winter and spring, so trekking poles are a good idea.
When you reach the top of the trail, turn right and continue about 80 yards to find the lookout area. Then return the way you came or descend via the dirt roads (if you have a map to find your way).
Your adventure doesn’t need to end when you return to the trailhead. Tongue Point is well-known for its tidepools. History buffs can explore the remains of Camp Hayden, which was used to guard the entry to Puget Sound during World War II.
DIRECTIONS: From Port Angeles, follow Highway 101 west to state Route 112. Turn right and continues west 7 miles, then turn right on Camp Hayden Road. Continue to Salt Creek Recreation Area. The trailhead is located to the right just past the entrance station.
DIFFICULTY RATING: 3 (5 is most difficult, 1 is easiest).
MILES ROUND TRIP: 5.4 (including side trip to cove).
ELEVATION GAIN: 1,100 feet.
BEST TIME OF THE YEAR: Year-round.
MAP: Green Trails 102; Joyce. A map is also posted on the trailhead kiosk.
PASS: None.
ALSO: Camping is available at Salt Creek Recreation Area for $23 per night for those who don’t live in Clallam County. Trails in the area are open to bikes. Whales are sometimes spotted from the park and the area is a popular destination for bird watchers. Park amenities include a play structure, basketball court, horseshoe pits, a softball field and a volleyball court. Pets on leashes are permitted. There is one geocache hidden in the area, according to geocaching.com.
INFO: clallam.net/Parks/SaltCreek.html
This story was originally published February 28, 2016 at 1:49 PM with the headline "Trail of the week: Striped Peak."