Cascade Rock offers a unique hiking experience within Olympic National Park. While once easily accessible from the Elwha Campground, the removal of the Elwha Dam and subsequent flooding led to the campground’s closure. However, the trail to Cascade Rock remains, providing a sense of solitude rarely found on popular park trails. Often overlooked, this path promises a tranquil escape and the chance to connect with the rugged beauty of the Elwha Valley.
Your journey begins at the paved parking area for the Madison Falls trailhead. From here, you’ll walk along the old road, now closed to vehicles due to river erosion. This road section serves as the initial part of your hike, leading you deeper into the valley. Approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead, you’ll cross a distinctive one-lane bridge. Just beyond, about 50 yards further, you’ll arrive at the site of the former Elwha Campground.
As you reach the old campground area, head towards the river’s sound, keeping an eye out for a large day-use picnic area to your left. Your next step involves fording a creek to reach the Cascade Rock trail. The creek crossing is generally safest in late summer and fall when water levels are lower. However, if you’re hiking during spring or periods of high rainfall, carefully assess the creek’s flow before attempting to cross, as high water can pose a significant hazard.
Once you’ve safely crossed the creek, look for temporary signs guiding you to the Elwha Valley Access Trail. Follow the prominent yellow arrows that mark the path. The trail initially leads away from the creek before veering left at a junction. Here, you’ll see a sign indicating both the access trail and the nature loop.
From this point, the ascent begins. The trail climbs gradually, passing through a few damp, boggy areas before emerging onto drier ground. The forest floor is often carpeted with large maple leaves, especially vibrant in the fall. Take caution during this season as these leaves can be slippery underfoot. After about 0.2 miles of climbing, a worthwhile detour to a viewpoint appears on your right, offering arguably the best panoramic vista on the entire Cascade Rock trail.
Returning to the main path and continuing for roughly half a mile from the old campground, you’ll encounter another trail junction. A trail merging from the left marks an alternate, less obvious access point to Cascade Rock, originating from a small, unmarked parking area off Olympic Hot Springs Road.
Continuing straight, the trail steepens for a short section before transitioning into a more moderate traverse. As you ascend, the roar of the Elwha River gradually diminishes, replaced by a profound sense of quietude. Due to the campground’s closure, the trail sees less traffic, adding to its secluded feel. Sections of the path may be overgrown with knee-high salal, while others open up, revealing the distinctive red, peeling bark of madrona trees.
Traverse for approximately another mile, maintaining a steady but gentle climb. The trail eventually rounds a ridge just south of a saddle visible through the trees. To the north, you can observe the Madison Creek drainage. Here, the final push to the summit begins, with a steeper climb over the last 0.3 miles, gaining around 300 feet in elevation.
The summit of Cascade Rock is understated – a mossy, open expanse of granite. However, the tranquility is remarkable, broken only by the sounds of birdsong. Pause here to soak in the absolute silence and appreciate the solitude before retracing your steps back down the trail. This hidden gem offers a peaceful and rewarding hike for those seeking a quieter experience in the Olympic wilderness.
