Place · 0.6 mi away
Overview
Two historic rail tunnels—McFee and Daley‑Rankin—punctuate the north shore of Lake Crescent along the Spruce Railroad section of the Olympic Discovery Trail. The path hugs turquoise water and forested bluffs, making this a rare blend of history walk and lakeside cruise that’s equally good for a mellow stroll or a bike spin.
What You'll See
- McFee Tunnel (about 450 feet) and the shorter Daley‑Rankin Tunnel cut through rocky headlands with dramatic lake views between them.
- The trail threads shoreline forests, cliffs, and clearings with constant glimpses of mountains across Lake Crescent.
- A short spur crosses a pedestrian bridge to Devil’s Punchbowl, a deep-blue cove that’s a favorite rest and swim stop on warm days.
Why It’s Unique
This corridor started life in 1918 as a U.S. Army Signal Corps railroad to move Sitka spruce for WWI airplanes. The line never fulfilled its wartime purpose, and the tunnels were blasted shut in the 1950s. Decades later, they were reopened—McFee in 2017 and Daley‑Rankin in 2020—restoring a lakeside route that’s now a showcase segment of the Olympic Discovery Trail.
Trail Feel & Use
The tread is wide and mostly paved, shared by walkers, cyclists, and equestrians. Expect a social scene near the tunnels and at Devil’s Punchbowl when the weather’s nice. Bring a small light if you want extra comfort in the darker tunnel stretches.
Wildlife
This lakeshore corridor is good for casual nature watching—songbirds in the woods, deer along the margins, and fish activity visible in the glassy coves. Early mornings are your best bet for quieter wildlife moments before bike traffic and swimmers pick up.
Know Before You Go
The trail has experienced closures from rockfall near the Daley‑Rankin Tunnel; check park alerts before you commit your day. Primary trailheads have vault toilets and parking, but spaces go fast in summer. There are no services along the route—carry water and snacks.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring–fall for the full lakeside experience; summer brings the best swimming but also the biggest crowds.
- Aim for early morning or late afternoon for softer light on the water and easier parking.
- Weekdays are noticeably calmer than weekends in peak season.
Pros
- Restored WWI-era rail tunnels on Lake Crescent's north shore
- Easy, scenic path with a fun Devil's Punchbowl detour
Cons
- Very popular; parking and lakeside spots fill fast
- Occasional closures from rockfall near Daley-Rankin Tunnel
Tips
- Check park alerts—rockfall has closed the route near Daley‑Rankin before.
- Arrive early for parking and a quieter walk through the tunnels.
- Bring a small flashlight; parts of McFee Tunnel are quite dark.
- Pack swim gear if you plan to detour to Devil’s Punchbowl.
- Share the path—expect fast-moving bikes and announce when passing.
