Quartz Creek Trail #5(edit)

Overview

Stunning hike through an old-growth Douglas Fir forest. The trail begins at the Quartz Creek Trailhead and undulates up and down, sometimes steeply, above Quartz Creek. The hike requires fording/crossing several creeks, including Straight Creek. Easy in late summer or fall, although still over slippery rocks. There is an excellent campsite after crossing Straight Creek at the confluence of Straight and Quartz Creeks. Look for the waterfalls along Quartz Creek at the confluence. Shortly after a signed junction with the Quartz Creek Ridge trail this route drops again to Quartz Creek and another campsite, the turnaround point.

The Quartz Creek trail is usually uncrowded as most hikers head to the more popular Lewis River Falls.

Getting Started

Start at the Quartz Creek / Upper Lewis River Trailhead. From Cougar, take Forest Road 90 for approximately 35 miles to the trailhead just before crossing Quartz Creek.

Taking Children

Not suitable for young children due to the possible sketchy creek crossings.