Lunch Lake Trail

Why go

If you want the classic Olympic combo—thundering waterfall, deep rainforest, and big alpine views—this out-and-back to Lunch Lake delivers. You’ll start in lush, mossy old-growth along the Sol Duc River, pass near photogenic Sol Duc Falls, then climb steadily to the subalpine meadows and tarns of Seven Lakes Basin. The payoff is Lunch Lake itself, a striking blue bowl tucked into a rocky cirque with wildflowers in season and frequent wildlife sightings.

The hike, at a glance

Plan on about 15 miles round trip (out-and-back) from the Sol Duc Trailhead to Lunch Lake and back, with roughly 3,000–4,000 feet of total gain depending on minor variations. The tread is typical Olympic backcountry: dirt, roots, rocks, and occasional mud. Once on the High Divide, the scenery opens to sweeping vistas of the Olympic Range and, on clear days, Mount Olympus and distant glaciers. The spur down to Lunch Lake is steep and rocky—great for getting close to the water, tough on knees on the way back out. Trekking poles help.

What you’ll see

• Temperate rainforest: towering conifers, moss-draped maples, and ferny understory in the lower miles.
• Water features: an early bridge near roaring Sol Duc Falls is a crowd-pleaser—snap your photos on the way in while you’re fresh.
• Subalpine basin: open meadows dotted with lakes and tarns; Lunch Lake sits in a glacially carved cirque. Expect marmots whistling from talus, deer in the meadows, and occasional black bears foraging below the Divide.

Trail notes and tips

• The Lunch Lake spur is the crux: steep, rocky, and can be slick after rain. Budget time and energy to climb back out.
• Late summer water can be scarce between Heart Lake and Lunch Lake—fill up before you commit down the spur and always treat/filter.
• Camping: Lunch Lake has designated backcountry sites and is a popular overnight on the Seven Lakes Basin/High Divide Loop. Overnight permits are required and competitive in peak season; a bear canister is required for food storage. No fires.
• Route strategy: Day hikers typically do this as an out-and-back. If you’re backpacking the full loop, many hikers go clockwise for a steadier grade and evolving views.

Season and conditions

Late July through September is the sweet spot—trails are usually snow-free, wildflowers pop, and bugs taper off. June and early July can bring lingering snow on the High Divide and chilly nights. Weather changes quickly at elevation; carry layers. This is a celebrated route—expect company in midsummer. For more solitude, start at dawn or aim for shoulder season.

Best time to hike

• Time of day: Early morning for cooler temps, easier parking, and softer light on the basin.
• Time of year: Late July–September is best; June–October is the broader window if you’re prepared for snow and variable weather.
• Crowd hack: Weekdays beat weekends; if you only want a taste, the early section to Sol Duc Falls offers a rewarding, much shorter outing.

Know before you go

No dogs on this trail. Day hikers don’t need a backcountry permit, but you’ll need a park pass to park at the trailhead. Expect a strenuous full day (around 9 hours on average) and make conservative turnaround times—especially if snow lingers.