Quinault Rain Forest Loop Drive, Lake Quinault, Washington

2013.09.08

After stopping for lunch, we took an extended break from walking to drive the Quinault Rain Forest Loop Drive.  About 30 miles in all, it extends up the Quinault River above the lake, with a bridge across connecting the South Shore Road and the North Shore Road.  The pavement soon gave way to gravel and dirt, which made for a dusty and bumpy ride.

Merriman Falls

Along the southern stretch, there are two waterfalls just off the road.  The first is Merriman Falls.

Merriman Falls near Quinault River, Washington
Merriman Falls near Quinault River, Washington

Bunch Creek Falls

The second is Bunch Creek Falls, just inside the Olympic National Park boundary.

Bunch Creek Falls near Quinault River, Washington
Bunch Creek Falls near Quinault River, Washington

Quinault River

Less than a mile from Bunch Creek Falls is the bridge over the Quinault River.

Quinault River, Olympic National Park, Washington
Quinault River, Olympic National Park, Washington
Quinault River, Olympic National Park, Washington
Quinault River, Olympic National Park, Washington

After crossing the bridge to the north side of the river, there was a large sign warning that the road was not suitable for RV’s and trailers.  We didn’t think the south side was particularly suitable, but the northern road turned out to be steep and winding, while still narrow and unpaved.

Before begining the climbing drive, we paused at a meadow not far from the bridge, hoping to see Roosevelt Elk.  Alas, we did not see any on our entire trip.  However, to our surprise, there was a Sooty Grouse (Dendragapus fuliginosus) on the side of the road.

Sooty Grouse (<em>Dendragapus fuliginosus</em>), Olympic National Park, Washington