That’s the only hike we’ve done in Olympic National Park that I regret,” my hiking partner Bryan said as we reached the parking lot, legs heavy from the steep descent.
After tackling the Mount Storm King trail in Olympic National Park, I understand why this hike generates buzz—but not for the reasons you’d expect. Despite being frequently listed among the top Olympic National Park hikes, the Mount Storm King trail delivers more disappointment than scenic payoff.
Mount Storm King Trail Overview
Distance: 4.1 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Strenuous due to elevation gain
Elevation Gain: 1,700+ feet
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Best For: Cardio workout seekers
Not Recommended For: Scenic view hunters
Getting to Mount Storm King Trailhead
The Storm King trailhead offers the hike’s best feature: convenience. Located directly on Lake Crescent’s shore, the trailhead provides clean restrooms, ample parking (try the second lot if the first is full), and easy access without entrance fees.
Navigate to the Storm King Ranger Station to find the trailhead. Look for the “Marymere Falls Nature Trail” sign—this marks the correct starting point, as both trails share the initial path.
The Mount Storm King Hiking Experience
The Good: Easy Start
The Mount Storm King trail begins pleasantly enough. You’ll walk along Lake Crescent’s shoreline through lush Olympic Peninsula rainforest, surrounded by towering ferns and moss-draped trees. These early lake views actually surpass what you’ll see from the summit.
The Challenge: Relentless Climbing
After branching from the Marymere Falls trail (watch for the junction on your left), the real Mount Storm King hike begins. From this point, expect:
- Continuous steep switchbacks
- 1,700+ feet of elevation gain in just 2 miles
- Dusty, rocky terrain
- Need for hiking poles and good traction shoes
The Storm King trail difficulty comes from its unrelenting grade, not distance. While achievable for moderately fit hikers, it’s an intense cardio workout.
The Disappointing Payoff
Here’s where the Mount Storm King trail review takes a turn. After the grueling climb, the payoff feels anticlimactic. The lake views, while decent, pale compared to the vibrant lakeshore scenery you left behind.
The trail reaches an “End of Maintained Trail” sign before the main viewpoint. Continuing past this point leads to a mediocre lake view that “feels like looking down from an airplane window.”
The Mount Storm King Rope Scramble
The trail’s most talked-about feature is the Mount Storm King rope scramble—unmaintained ropes leading to the final viewpoint. Previous hikers leave gloves at the base, creating a communal atmosphere as people decide whether to attempt the climb.
We skipped this section (pregnancy was a factor), so the ultimate view remains a mystery. However, given the underwhelming views leading up to it, expectations should be managed.
Why Mount Storm King Trail Is Overrated
- Scenery Doesn’t Match the Effort
The Olympic Peninsula offers dozens of spectacular hikes with better view-to-effort ratios.
- Better Lake Views at Trailhead
The most striking Lake Crescent views happen at the beginning, not after climbing 1,700 feet.
- Hype Exceeds Reality
The trail’s reputation seems built on its challenging nature and cool name rather than scenic beauty.
- Steep Descent is Brutal
The return trip down those steep switchbacks is harder on your knees than the ascent.
Better Olympic National Park Alternatives
Instead of the Mount Storm King hike, consider these superior Olympic Peninsula trails:
- Hurricane Ridge trails for mountain views
- Hoh River Trail for rainforest immersion
- Ruby Beach for coastal scenery
- Sol Duc Falls for waterfalls with less elevation gain
Mount Storm King Trail Tips (If You Still Go)
What to Bring:
- Hiking poles for the steep sections
- High-traction shoes
- Plenty of water
- Download AllTrails map (signage is poor)
Best Time to Hike:
- Early morning for cooler temperatures
- Clear days for better views
- Avoid smoky wildfire season
Parking:
- Arrive early or try the second parking area
- Display your National Park pass
Conclusion
While I don’t regret checking off this Olympic National Park bucket list item, the Mount Storm King trail ranks among Washington’s most overrated hikes. The challenging climb builds expectations that the modest lake views simply can’t meet.
