Walk the Spruce Railroad Trail at Lake Crescent
Why the Spruce Railroad Trail Is the Best Way to See Lake Crescent
Most old rail lines disappear once the trains stop running. The Spruce Railroad Trail took a different path, turning a World War I era railroad grade into one of the most scenic waterfront walks in Olympic National Park. The route follows the north shore of Lake Crescent for about eight miles round trip, passing two restored railroad tunnels and a detour to the famous Devils Punchbowl along the way. For anyone planning an adventure trip on the Olympic Peninsula, this trail belongs near the top of the list.
The Spruce Railroad Trail is a great starting point, but with so many things to do in Olympic National Park, it is far from the only reason to plan a trip here. Hurricane Ridge delivers some of the best mountain views in the park, the Olympic National Park beaches on the west side offer a completely different landscape, and Port Angeles adds ferry access to Victoria along with Sequim’s lavender farms and drier climate nearby. Between all of it, you will want more than a single day.
What to Expect on the Spruce Railroad Trail
The trail runs four miles one way between the Lyre River Trailhead and the Camp David Junior Road Trailhead, which puts the full out and back at close to eight miles, plus another mile if you add the Devils Punchbowl detour. It hugs the shoreline of Lake Crescent the entire way, follows the old railroad route as part of the Olympic Discovery Trail, and stays open to bicycles and leashed pets, which is rare inside the park. The path is paved from end to end, making it one of the more accessible hikes in Olympic National Park and a solid choice for families or casual walkers who want lake views without a steep climb.
About a mile in from the east side, you will reach the first of two restored railroad tunnels, with the turnoff for Devils Punchbowl just before it. That side trail is short but rougher, with roots and loose rock leading down to a footbridge over a striking blue-green pool. This spot is the most popular for Lake Crescent swimming, though the water stays cold year-round, so anyone getting in should use caution around the cold temperatures and varying depths.
The trail stays open year-round, but late spring through early fall offers the best conditions for hiking and biking. Bring water, sturdy shoes, and a light for the tunnels, especially on overcast days. Restrooms sit at both trailheads, and parking fills quickly on summer weekends, so an early start helps. If you have extra time, the historic Lake Crescent Lodge is a short drive from the eastern trailhead and makes a good stop for lunch or another angle on the lake.
Where to Stay After a Day at Lake Crescent
A day spent walking the Spruce Railroad Trail and cooling off near Devils Punchbowl is the kind of day that earns a good view to come home to. Olympic National Park Lodging offers vacation rentals across Port Angeles and Sequim built for exactly that. Spend the night twenty feet up in a craftsman treehouse overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca, soak in a private hot tub at a bluff-top cabin, or settle into a cozy log cabin with a fireplace after a long day outdoors. Whether you are traveling with your dog, your family, or just your hiking boots, there is a rental designed for the trip.
Full kitchens make it easy to cook dinner after a day on the trail, and several properties welcome pets, so bringing your dog along the Spruce Railroad Trail does not mean leaving them out of the stay. Browse the full collection of vacation rentals near Port Angeles and Sequim, and find the property that puts the Spruce Railroad Trail, Hurricane Ridge, and the rest of the Olympic Peninsula within easy reach.
Book Your Olympic Peninsula Adventure Trip
Whether the Spruce Railroad Trail is your first stop or your last on an Olympic National Park adventure trip, having the right home base changes the whole experience. Book your Olympic National Park lodging today and start planning your route from Lake Crescent to Hurricane Ridge and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim in Lake Crescent?
Yes. Devils Punchbowl along the Spruce Railroad Trail is the most popular swimming spot on the lake, though the water stays cold year-round and depths vary near the footbridge.
How deep is Lake Crescent?
Lake Crescent reaches depths of several hundred feet in places, making it one of the deepest lakes in Washington State and a major reason its water stays so clear.
Is Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park?
Yes. Lake Crescent sits within Olympic National Park along Highway 101, with the Spruce Railroad Trail tracing its north shore.
How far is Lake Crescent from Port Angeles?
Lake Crescent sits roughly 25 minutes west of Port Angeles by car, making it an easy day trip from Olympic National Park Lodging’s Port Angeles rentals.