Wagonwheel Lake Trail

What to expect

If you like your hikes steep and simple, this is your Staircase bruiser. The Wagonwheel Lake Trail climbs roughly 3,200 feet in just under 3 miles to a small, serene lake tucked in forest. It’s about 5.8 miles total, out-and-back. The grade is relentless, the tread is natural (dirt, roots, rocks), and the switchbacks are limited—expect a sustained workout both up and down.

Scenery and highlights

Most of the climb tunnels through cool old-growth fir and hemlock, with a brief crossing of a brushy avalanche chute that pops out to limited views—on clear days you can spot Mount Lincoln and the Sawtooth Range. The lake itself sits in a wooded bowl with slim shoreline access; a small bench above the water makes a good lunch spot. Want views? From the lake, a primitive path charges up to a 4,755-foot knoll (often called Silver Snag Hill) for panoramic looks at Pershing, Washington, Ellinor, Copper, Skokomish, and The Brothers, with Wagonwheel Lake glittering below.

Difficulty and footing

This trail is one of Olympic’s steepest. The descent is knee-jarring; trekking poles help. Sections can be faint—especially beyond the main switchbacks and when snow lingers—so pay attention to the path. In early season, snow can obscure the route and make footing slick.

Logistics

Trailhead is behind the Staircase Ranger Station in the park’s southeast corner near Hoodsport. No wilderness permit is needed for a day hike, but standard park entrance fees apply. Pets aren’t allowed on this trail.

Best time to hike

Late spring through early fall is the sweet spot. Snow may linger into early summer on upper sections, complicating navigation. Summer and early autumn bring the driest tread and the clearest views from the knoll above the lake. Start early for cooler temps and a quieter trail.

Is it for you?

Come for solitude, a hard-earned lake, and the option to tack on a big-view bonus above. If you’re hunting constant vistas or an easy lakeshore hang, this one can feel underwhelming at the lake itself—consider continuing to the knoll for the payoff.