When we were driving to Sol Duc Falls in Olympic National Park, WA, we saw the trailhead for this little gem called Ancient Groves Nature Trail along the way. With it being so short, only 0.5 miles roundtrip, we didn’t have a lot of high expectations for it. Unexpectedly, we were quite impressed with this little hike. This short yet beautiful Ancient Groves Nature Trail takes you through dense old-growth forests in the lowland with hundreds of years old massive trees covered in green moss. There is only around 5% original lowland left so this protected place is quite important and super cool to see. This hike is also secluded so it felt like you are part of the forest rather than a marked hike. Although we don’t recommend going out of your way for this hike, it is a worthy quick 10 minutes stop on your way to other hikes in the area.
Stats
Where
Ancient Groves Main Trailhead
48.004007, -123.905487
Parking
Small pulled-out on the side of the road.
Restroom
There is no restroom
Fee
Olympic National Park charges a fee to enter, but you can also use a park-specific annual pass or the Interagency – America the Beautiful Pass.
Distance
0.5 mi Loop
Elevation Gain
52 ft
Level
Easy
Time:
10 – 30 minutes
Pet-friendly
Dogs aren’t allowed on this trail.
Ideal Time
The best times to visit this trail are March through October.
Weather
Video
Getting to Ancient Groves Trailhead
Ancient Groves Nature Trail is located right off Sol Duc Hot Springs Road in the Sol Duc area. To get here from Port Angeles, follow Olympic Highway 101 West for about 26.7 miles. Then, turn left onto Sol Duc-Hot Springs Rd. After about 8.8 miles, you should see a small sign on the right side of the road for “Ancient Groves Nature Trail.” There is a small turnout right after the sign where you can park.
The Adventure
We started our adventure on a narrow dirt trail. Ancient Groves Nature Trail starts at the far end of the parking area. It weaves among the massive trees, green ferns, and lush vegetation. There are little boardwalks along the way, keeping hikers off the forest floor. When you come to the “Loop” sign, you can go either direction. It will eventually lead you over to the far side of the grove and then traces along a wide-open ravine. This part along the ravine is our favorite part of this trail. The way the trees are hanging over the trail is just spectacular.
Even though there is nothing too dramatic along this trail like the ones in the Hoh Rainforest, Ancient Groves Nature Trail is a lovely, peaceful walk. It is perfect for beginner hikers, older hikers, and families. If you’re looking for more easy hikes in the area, check out Spruce Railroad Trail to Devil’s Punchbowl and Marymere Falls Trail.
These are the gear that we personally use and find them helpful for this particular adventure. Don’t forget to check out our Recommended Gear section as well.
adventure gear
This is our favourite hiking shoes. We use them for canyoneering as well. Lots of traction. Vy’s version.
Dustin’s version for La Sportiva shoes
Make sure to use lots of sunscreens! We use eco-friendly, reef-safe sunscreen, Stream2Sea SPF 30.
Face sunscreen is also important. We love these tinted, organic All Good Organic Sunscreen Butter.
You should always bring plenty of water. Vy loves the Camelback L.U.X.E.
For shorter hikes, the Patagonia Women’s Nine Trails Pack 18L is perfect to hold water and your essentials.
If you want something lighter, we love the packable Patagonia Women’s Houdini® Jacket and Patagonia Men’s Houdini® Jacket
other things to bring
Always good to bring some snacks with you. For healthy and easy snacks, check out some of our recipes.
camera gear
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