Wynoochee Lake at Coho Campground in the Olympic National Forest offers hikers and trail runners epic wilderness to explore. In the foothills of the Olympic Mountains, miles of trails roll alongside Wynoochee Lake. Hiking enthusiasts, trail runners, mountain bikers and wildlife viewers enjoy time outdoors in this beautiful natural setting.
The best window for visiting the Wynoochee Lake Recreation Area is between late July and October, but it is open year-round. Leashed dogs are allowed, and families will find plenty to do here. There is very limited cell coverage or any services in the area, so be sure to gas up and pack any essentials before taking the 35-plus mile trek out. The “time to dirt” can take a while, depending on where you are coming from, but the payoff is worth the journey.
Wynoochee Lake Shore Trail
Classified as intermediate, the 16-mile Wynoochee Lake Shore Trail is a National Recreation Trail. According to their website, this designation highlights some of our country’s highest-caliber trails with the intention of providing recreational access.
This long loop around the stunning Wynoochee Lake can be accessed at Coho Campground, several trailheads around the lake, and even via boat. With moderate terrain and a relatively flat profile with an elevation of around 800 feet, find scenic views, waterfalls tucked in the woodlands and solitude while getting some miles in.
Starting near the Wynoochee Dam, find a pleasant picnic area, clean and spacious restrooms and the easily accessible trailhead. Trails in the area of the campground are well-signed.
While the trail is well-kept, you will encounter brush along the trail sides, the occasional downed log and creek crossings. The old-growth trees and stumps stand out among the second-growth forest. Rolling hills around the lake offer stunning views, and the Olympic Mountains pop out in various places, providing glimpses of their rugged snow-capped peaks, including Mount Church and Black Hill’s Capitol Peak.
Once you pass the lake head, you will need to ford the Wynoochee River (if it is doable) or continue on the trail for another couple of miles to Maidenhair Falls. If you choose to skip the falls, the loop is 12 miles around the lake or 16 miles if you want to do the entire route. From the east side of the lakeshore trail, you’ll return to your starting point. Take a rest near the day-use area and enjoy the calm waters of the lake.
Since this trail is near the lake, there is an option to have someone meet you at the river and take a boat back for a one-way hike, which is a fun way to explore the area by land and water.
Working Forest Nature Trail
For an easy, family-friendly hike, use the Working Forest Nature Trail from the north side of Coho Campground. Find the trailhead of this shaded loop hike, marked by a kiosk at the north end of Loop B. At just a half mile, this trail includes exhibits, including information on logging history in the area, a vista overlook, views of the river and glimpses of the lake.
Directions to Wynoochee Lake Area
Starting in Montesano, go west on Highway 12 for one mile and use the Devonshire Road exit. At the intersection, go straight and watch for the brown sign marking the Wynoochee Lake Recreation Area. Drive Wynoochee Valley Road for about 34 miles, then turn left while still on Wynoochee Valley Road for 0.3 miles. Then, turn right on Wynoochee Valley Road for 1.4 miles, turning right to Coho Campground.
Other Trails Near Wynoochee Lake
If you have a high-clearance vehicle and are looking for a hiker-only route, Wynoochee Pass Trail is remote but offers access to the Olympic National Park. Find this short 0.3-mile trail north of Wynoochee Lake at Forest Service Road 2270-400, accessed from the gravel Cougar-Smith Road.
The steep Church Creek Trail takes visitors 3.5 miles along Church Creek and through the forest. Ending at Satsop Lakes, this area is used less, given its remote location, but you may also encounter off-road motorized users.
To get there, use Wynoochee Valley Road (Forest Service Road 22) to a major intersection. Go forward just for a bit, and then turn right onto Forest Service Road 23. Travel about a mile, take a slight left on Forest Road 2372 and go west approximately seven miles to the unmarked Church Creek trailhead.
Whether you seek a solo trail run in the forest or a family adventure, the trails around Wynoochee Lake and Coho Campground offer something for everyone. So, lace up the sneakers, gas up the car, and find fun in the Olympic National Forest.
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