Dosewallips River Trail

Notices

Be aware that the Dosewallips Road is washed out, this adds an additional 6.5 miles of hiking to your trip
Learn how to obtain a Wilderness Permit

Ecosystem type: Montane forest
Trail tread types: Well maintained
General elevation trend: Moderate
Unique features: River, ancient forest
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 14.9 miles to Hayden Pass from Dose Ranger Station + 5.5 miles from road closure to ranger station
Elevation change: 2650 feet to 5847 feet (ranger station to Hayden Pass)
Best Season: The earliest Hayden Pass melts out is typically the middle of July. Lower sections may be snow free year-round but often have snow in winter and spring.

Food Storage Method: Bear wires are located at some camps. Bear canisters are required where food cannot be hung at least 12 feet high and 10 feet out from the nearest tree trunk.
Campsites: Dose Forks, Deception Creek, Bear Camp, Dose Meadows
Toilet Facilities: Dose Forks, Deception Creek, Bear Camp, Dose Meadows; elsewhere bury waste 6-8" deep and 200 feet from water sources and campsites. Please pack out toilet paper.
Water Source: Dosewallips River and nearby streams. Always boil, filter, or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent Giardia infection.
Stock: Allowed. Learn more about stock use.

Leave No Trace: Leave No Trace of your stay to protect vegetation and prevent further camping regulations. Camp in established sites or on bare ground.
Campfires: To protect sensitive vegetation, campfires are prohibited above 3,500 feet. Where fires are allowed, leave no trace of your fire ring. Burn dead and down wood only.
Respect Wildlife: To protect bears and other wildlife, all food, garbage, and scented items must be secured from all wildlife 24 hours a day. Bear canisters are recommended in this area.

Always carry the 10 Essentials: map, compass, flashlight, knife, matches, nylon cord, extra food and water, and rain gear with warm clothes.
Map & compass navigation skills may be necessary in places along this trail. Snow may cover higher reaches of this trail in any season, so know how to navigate without a trail for guidance.
Ice axe and self-arrest skills are necessary for higher elevations of this trail and connecting trails when snow covered.
Let someone know where and when you are taking your hike. Make emergency plans for them to follow if you do not return.
Watch the weather before and during your hike. Storms move quickly. Always check weather forecasts before your trip and watch weather closely during your trip.

Last updated: April 23, 2025

600 E. Park Avenue
Port Angeles, WA 98362

360 565-3130