Spruce Railroad Trail
This trail offers scenic views of Lake Crescent . The trail through
the forest follows an old railbed built during World War 1 to transport
Sitka Spruce from the great forests of the Pacific Northwest to Seattle
and points east.
The
trail has two main scenic points: Harrington Point, which is .8 miles
into the trail, and Devils Point, only .3 miles past Harrington Point.
At Harrington Point you will find a picnic table plus sweeping views of
Lake Crescent. Harrington Point is not marked on the trail, but a trail
does lead to it. Ahead is Devils Point and the Devils Punch Bowl. A
small climb and descent occurs before you reach this popular swimming
spot, but Devils Point is well worth the extra effort. The Devil's
Punch bowl at Devils Point is rumored to be almost 300 feet in depth,
but has never been measured. Ample large rocks lay along the trail
which are large enough to spread your lunch out and take in the view of
Mt. Storm King. Devil's Point is a good turn around spot.
The
trail continues for another 2.9 miles through lush forest and Pacific
Madronas. Aurora Ridge can be seen, along with Barnes Point, where Lake
Crescent Lodge awaits visitors. The trail ends at Camp David Jr. road.
This is a great trail for families with children, or a picnic along the shores of Lake Crescent. WATCH OUT FOR POISON OAK.
Directions: From
Port Angeles take U.S. Highway 101 west to mile marker 232 and turn
right onto East Beach Road. Following this winding road for 3.2 miles,
just past the Log Cabin Resort, you will find the sign for the Spruce
Railroad Trail, turn left. The parking area is near private homes just
a mile ahead.
Travel Time: 25-30 minutes
Mileage Distance: 19 miles from Port Angeles
Best Time of Year: Through out the year
Special Notes: No Pets, Mountain Bikes allowed, watch for poison oak
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