Anderson Moraine Trail

If you’ve already put in the big miles to Anderson Pass, this primitive spur is the knockout finale. The Anderson Moraine Trail climbs quickly from the pass onto a stark, rocky moraine with commanding views of Mount Anderson, the receded Anderson Glacier, and a striking turquoise lake tucked in the basin below. It’s dramatic, remote, and absolutely feels like the Olympic high country.

The route

From Anderson Pass, the spur heads up about 0.8 mile one way (roughly 1.6 miles round trip) and gains around 700–1,000 feet. Expect a primitive tread: loose rock, steep grades, and occasional exposure as you crest a small ridge and the whole glacier basin opens at your feet. The route can be hard to follow when snow lingers, and signage has been reported missing at times—bring navigation and treat the moraine terrain with care.

What you’ll see

This is glacial geology in 3D: lateral moraines, scoured rock, and a high basin once filled by Anderson Glacier (now largely receded). Look and listen for marmots sunning on rocks, deer moving through the subalpine edges, and the occasional black bear far below in the valley. In late summer, small pockets of wildflowers find purchase among the rubble.

Getting there (context matters)

The spur starts at Anderson Pass, most commonly reached on a multi-day backpack via the East Fork Quinault/Enchanted Valley from the Graves Creek Trailhead (plan on a long approach—often 17–22 miles one way depending on route). The pass can also be reached from the West Fork Dosewallips. Either way, think of the moraine as a demanding side trip at the end of a serious backcountry journey, not a casual day hike.

Best time to hike

Late July through September is your sweet spot. Snow lingers well into summer around the pass and on the moraine, obscuring the route and upping the risk. Aim for a clear, stable forecast—high-country weather here can turn fast.

Regulations and logistics

No camping on the moraine. Fill all water at Anderson Pass; there’s typically no reliable water on the spur itself. Bear canisters are required in this area, and a wilderness camping permit is required for any overnight itinerary. No dogs on this backcountry trail.

Tips

• Treat the spur like alpine terrain: start early from your camp, carry layers, and turn back if snow, ice, or visibility make the route sketchy.
• The final viewpoint is fragile—stick to durable surfaces and avoid trampling the sparse vegetation.
• If you want big scenery without the extra exposure, stopping at Anderson Pass or spending more time in Enchanted Valley is a perfectly good trade.