Petes Creek Trail #858

This route is rated as difficult. It features a substantial and steep elevation gain, climbing over 1,800 feet in approximately 2.4 miles. Hikers should be prepared for a strenuous climb on a rugged path, with some sections requiring you to hoist yourself up and down ledges.

The terrain is typically a standard ground surface trail, but it's often rugged with sections of rocks, roots, and debris. You'll hike through a dense, lush temperate rainforest, and some parts can be overgrown with berry brambles and even devil's club.

You'll experience an immersive temperate rainforest with towering conifers like Sitka spruce and Douglas-fir, and a forest floor rich with ferns, moss, and various wildflowers. As you ascend, there are openings offering views of the Humptulips River valley. From the summit of Colonel Bob Peak, you can enjoy panoramic views of Quinault Lake, the Pacific Ocean, Grays Harbor, and on clear days, Mount Olympus and Mount Rainier.

Yes, this route serves as a primary access point into the Colonel Bob Wilderness. It junctions with the Colonel Bob Trail #851, which leads to the summit of Colonel Bob Peak. You will also encounter sections of the Lower Pete's Creek Trail #858.1 and the Colonel Bob Summit Trail #851.1.

The trailhead for this route is the Petes Creek Trailhead. Parking is available there, but a valid Recreation Pass is required to park. You can find more information about passes on the USDA Forest Service website.

Yes, a valid Recreation Pass is required at the Petes Creek Trailhead for parking. Additionally, since the trail enters the Colonel Bob Wilderness, wilderness regulations apply. You can learn more about these regulations on the USDA Forest Service website.

While the trail is generally open to dogs, it's important to remember that it enters the Colonel Bob Wilderness. Wilderness regulations typically require dogs to be on a leash and for owners to practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all waste. Given the rugged and steep nature of the trail, ensure your dog is capable of handling the strenuous conditions.

The best time to hike is generally during the drier months, typically late spring through early fall, to avoid the wettest conditions. This allows for better trail conditions and clearer views from the summit. Be aware that some areas, like Moonshine Flats, can be wet during rainy seasons.

Yes, around 3.2 miles in and at an elevation of 3,500 feet, you'll reach Moonshine Flats. This area offers several viable dispersed campsites, though some may be wet during rainy seasons. Remember to follow all wilderness regulations for camping.

The trail showcases a diverse array of plant life typical of a high-precipitation temperate rainforest. You'll see towering conifers like Sitka spruce, Douglas-fir, western hemlock, and western red cedar. The forest floor is rich with ferns, moss, Douglas maple, fungi, salmonberry, huckleberry, and various wildflowers, especially in season. Be aware that some sections can be overgrown with berry brambles and even devil's club.

Due to its difficult rating, substantial elevation gain, and rugged terrain, this trail is generally not recommended for beginners or young children. It requires a good level of fitness and experience with strenuous hiking.