Overview

The Spruce Railroad Trail is a 4-mile waterfront trail along the Northern shoreline of Lake Crescent. After finishing final renovations in 2020, the Spruce Railroad Trail is now one of the most iconic and accessible sections of the 134 mile Olympic Discovery Trail as a paved ADA trail. Originally built to haul Spruce timber for World War I aircraft, the Spruce Railroad Trail wasn’t completed until 1919, a year too late for its intended purpose. At around 700 feet elevation, this amazing “rail to trail” is a great year-round trail for biking, running, dog-walking, and swimming. About 1 mile from the Eastern Trailhead, the Devil’s Punchbowl and bridge is one of the most picturesque sections and is a favorite among thrill-seekers that cliff jump into the cold, glacial-fed waters.

Quick Facts

• Trail: 4.0 miles one-way, 250 foot gain

• Mileage: 8 miles roundtrip

• Highest Point: 700 feet

• Difficulty: Easy

• Region: Lake Crescent

Via Camp David Jr. Road

Via Piedmont/East Beach Road

Updated Trip Reports