Deer Ridge Trail

Let's hike the stunning Deer Ridge Trail in Olympic National Park! This trail climbs steadily through shaded forest and open meadows to Deer Ridge and Deer Park Campground, with sweeping alpine views of the surrounding Olympics. A classic PNW gem that earns every bit of its reputation.
📍 Hike Details

• Trail: Deer Ridge Trail (Olympic National Park)
• Distance: 9.8 miles out & back
• Elevation Gain: ~2,962 ft
• Difficulty: Hard
• Route Type: Out & back to Deer Ridge / Deer Park Campground
• Pass Required: America the Beautiful Pass or Olympic National Park Pass (fee required if parking at top; free if starting from Slab Camp trailhead at the bottom)

🚗 Schedule & Meeting

• 6:30 AM – Meet at Green Lake P&R (NE 65th St & I-5, Seattle)
• Carpool and depart promptly
• 7:10 AM – Edmonds Ferry departure (Edmonds → Kingston)
• Drive south from Kingston toward Sequim/Port Angeles area
• ~10:00 AM – Arrive at Slab Camp trailhead
• 10:15 AM – Begin hiking
• ~3:30 PM – Return to trailhead
• ~6:30 PM – Back at Green Lake P&R

🎒 Required Gear

• Sturdy waterproof hiking boots – trail can be muddy in sections
• Hiking poles – highly recommended, steep sustained climb
• Standard day hike essentials: 2–3L water, lunch, snacks
• Layers – temperature varies significantly between forest and exposed ridge
• Bug spray – horseflies reported above treeline in warmer months
• Sun protection: sunglasses, sunscreen, hat for exposed sections near the ridge

⚠️ Trail & Access Note The access road (NF-2875 from Slab Camp) has significant potholes — go slow and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Recent hikers have made it in a Prius but it requires very careful navigation. The trail itself is steep and relentless — the bulk of the 2,900+ ft gain is packed in before you reach the ridge. We'll hike at a comfortable group pace and turn around when ready.
For an optional extension, the nearby Blue Mountain summit offers absolutely phenomenal 360° views and is worth the extra push if conditions and energy allow.
💰 Cost Sharing

• $40 per person to cover gas, ferry, and vehicle wear. Cash or Venmo.

⚠️ Disclaimer This is a group-organized hike, NOT a guided tour. The host is not a professional guide, trip leader, or outdoor expert. They are simply organizing a gathering of fellow hikers and are participating in the hike themselves.
You are solely responsible for your own safety, preparedness, and well-being throughout the entire event. Please honestly assess your fitness and experience level before joining — this is a genuine hard-rated trail with nearly 3,000 ft of gain.