Morse Creek Trail

View from Morse Creek Trail

UPDATE: 23 May 2009 - Sad news. The last bit of trail has been paved. The view of the sea is as pretty as ever, but the trail no longer offers a respite for tired feet and the footworn. It was nice while it lasted.

The Morse Creek Trail is just east of Port Angeles, so it is not as wild as many of the national park trails. Still, it is easy to get to and an easy wander along the Strait of San Juan de Fuca. Since it is so close to town it has a coterie of regulars who come to enjoy the strait and the views. You can see the Ediz Spit, Striped Peak, Victoria, and on clear days, Mount Baker in the distance.

How to Get There

The parking lot at the trail head is visible on Route 101 a bit east of Port Angeles. The highway dips in a deep U where it crosses the creek. The parking lot is visible north of the road. Just pull in and cross the street to the restored railroad bridge and start the walk. (The bridge was rebuilt by volunteers and they've done a great job!)

The Kaleberg Hike

Morse Creek to Port Angeles - 2 stars - a bit tame, but great views of the strait

You can take this trail from downtown Port Angeles and head east, but this means you have to walk through the maze at the old Rayonier site. Until this portion of the trail is improved, we'll continue starting at Morse Creek.

The trail starts with the railroad bridge and the trailhead is, if anything, well marked. This trail is part of the Olympic Discovery Trail and runs east, as well as west, from the parking lot. We always head west, up the ramp and over Morse Creek on the railroad bridge. You'll often see people fishing down by the river.

After the bridge, the trail descends for the better part of a mile. You will be in some people's back yards, so give them a break. The trail is lined with wild roses and popcorn plant, but the real payoff comes when you reach the strait. From here, you follow the rocky shore at the base of the bluffs and Port Angeles seems far away.

You can wander for several miles, even into town if you want. You can clamber around on the rocks, but do be careful. When the winds are high, the waves can knock you off the trail or the rocks and into the icy strait. Down there, the beach logs lurk, ready to kill. Ordinary common sense should be sufficient.

Kaleberg Hints

Mind the weather. You can often see large rocks dislodged here by the power of the sea.
Bring your dog and a leash. Dogs love it here and there are places for them to romp.
Bring your bicycle. The trail is completely paved and everywhere easily passable on an ordinary bicycle.
Drive carefully, especially when turning onto Route 101. Cars pick up speed at the bottom of the U.