Pros & cons
PROS
- Suspension bridge and old‑growth river walk make the approach fly by
- Photogenic twin lakes with a narrow isthmus that shines at sunrise
- Straightforward add‑on to Gladys Divide for bigger alpine views
CONS
- Long mileage with a very steep, rocky final push that punishes late in the day
- Trail can be muddy with blowdowns and a reported washed‑out/exposed section
Park at the Staircase area/North Fork Skokomish trailhead near the Staircase Ranger Station and campground; toilets and water available.
Expect a long day with 3,000+ ft of gain; final miles are steep, rocky, and slippery when wet. Occasional blowdowns and a reported washout/exposed section. Early season may hold lingering snow. Weather can change quickly. No dogs.
Why go
If you like big payoff after a long grind, Flapjack Lakes delivers: two subalpine lakes tucked beneath the Sawtooth Range, mirror-still on calm mornings, separated by a skinny isthmus. The approach starts mellow along the North Fork Skokomish through towering old-growth, then turns rugged and steep for a proper Olympic workout. It’s a classic Staircase-area objective—rewarding for strong day hikers and ideal for a one‑night backpack.
The hike, at a glance
Plan on roughly 15.4 miles total (out-and-back) with about 3,050 feet of gain. The first several miles follow an old decommissioned roadbed beside the river—fast walking with the sound of rushing water and mossy forest all around. Expect a photogenic suspension bridge and old footbridges en route, plus small cascades near Madeline Creek. The character changes in the final miles: steeper switchbacks, rocky and rooty tread, and occasional blowdowns or muddy stretches, especially after rain. The lakes sit in a glacially carved basin beneath rugged ridges of the Sawtooth Range; sunrise or calm mornings often bring perfect reflections.
Day hike or overnight?
Fit hikers often do this as a strenuous day—start early and be ready for a long return. Newer hikers tend to backpack it, which makes the final climb far more pleasant. There are designated sites at the lakes (permit required), and camping on the narrow isthmus is not allowed.
Extensions
If you arrive with gas left in the tank, many continue above the basin toward Gladys Divide for bigger, wilder views of the high country.
Trail feel and logistics
Crowds can show on summer weekends, but it’s still quieter than some Olympic hotspots. The Staircase area has parking, toilets, water, and a ranger station. The road in can have potholes, though it’s paved inside the park. The route is well signed, but bring a map—weather shifts happen fast here.
Best time to hike
Mid‑June through October typically offers the best, mostly snow‑free conditions. Early summer can hold lingering snow or mud up high. For photography, aim for morning at the lakes for glassy reflections; afternoons can bring wind and cloud build‑ups.
Permits and rules
No permit is needed for day hiking. An Olympic wilderness permit is required for overnight camping at the lakes. Standard park entry fees apply. No dogs on this trail.
Elevation
15.4 mi · 8 hrWhere it starts
47.5159, -123.3312Near Flapjack Lakes Trail
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayStaircase Rapids LoopShort, lush loop with roaring river, big bridge, and old growth.Easy · 2.1 mi · 1.5 hr
0 mi awayFirst Divide TrailForest-to-alpine marathon to sweeping Olympic views at First DivideChallenging · 25.4 mi · 14 hr
0 mi awaySix Ridge TrailA rugged, lonely ridge run for navigators who earn their viewsChallenging · 21.1 mi · 18 hr
0 mi awayShady Lane TrailA cool, mossy river stroll under giant cedars near Staircase.Easy · 1.8 mi · 1.2 hr
0 mi awayStaircase Picnic AreaShaded riverfront tables steps from Staircase Rapids loopTrailhead · Restroom
0.1 mi awayStaircase Ranger StationSeasonal hub for Staircase trails beside the Skokomish RiverTrailhead · Restroom
0.1 mi awayStaircase CampgroundShady, riverside camps under towering old-growth with trails at your doorCampground · Restroom
0.2 mi awayStaircase RapidsAn easy old-growth loop with turquoise rapids and a suspension bridgeTrailhead · Parking
