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Running along the side of the drained Lake Mills, this trail offers some of the most up-close views of the river.


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Map Key

1.8

Miles

2.9

KM

Point to Point

652' 199 m

High

598' 182 m

Low

119' 36 m

Up

141' 43 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

6%

Max Grade (4°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views

Family Friendly This trail's short length and manageable grades make it a viable option for families with children.

Description

Since the removal of the Glines Canyon Dam, Lake Mills has drained and has been replaced once more by the Elwha River. This trail travels along what was once the lakeside, with views of the rocky lakebed. From the parking lot at the Glines Dam, the trail lingers above the river for a short while before slowly turning down towards the lakebed. Some occasional views of the river are present here.

About a third of a mile along, the trail passes over a stream via a pair of logs. They can get slippery at times, but shouldn't be too difficult for most to cross. The trail continues to slowly approach the river as it heads through the regrowth. Parts of the trail can sometimes get muddy or washed out. Eventually, the trail slows its decline as it reaches the lakebed. It heads on a little longer until the trail suddenly stops, with an overlook of Boulder Creek, elevation 660 feet.

Flora & Fauna

Alder, madrona, fir. Osprey.

Contacts

Shared By:

Megan W with improvements by Steve Macdonald

Trail Ratings

  3.5 from 4 votes

#24474

Overall
  3.5 from 4 votes
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Trail Rankings

#1,130

in Washington

#24,474

Overall
2 Views Last Month
361 Since Apr 24, 2015
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

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Photos

The Elwha River flows alongside the Smokey Bottom (West Lake Mills) Trail.
Jan 28, 2017 near Port An…, WA
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Weather


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