Lena Lake, Lena Lake Trailhead, Olympic National Park, Washington
Lena Lake - 6.1 miles
Lena Lake Trailhead

Round-Trip Length: | 6.1 miles |
Start-End Elevation: | 695' - 1,935' (2,006' max elevation) |
Elevation Change: | +1,240' net elevation gain (+1,412' total roundtrip elevation gain) |
Skill Level: | Easy-Moderate |
Dogs Allowed: | Yes |
Bikes Allowed: | No |
Horses Allowed: | No |
Related Trails: |
Lena Lake - 6.1 Miles Round-Trip
Lena Lake is located 3 miles from the Hamma Hamma - Lena Lake Trailhead in the Olympic National Forest. Lena Lake formed only 1300 years ago when an earthquake produced avalanches that dammed Lena Creek, an area visible from Lunch Rock.
Old growth conifers were submerged as water filled the 55 acre basin, which can be seen breaching the surface at low water levels.
The Lena Lake Trail (#810) follows winding switchbacks through second and old growth forest to an outcrop over the lake, where a social trail circles north to campsites and additional view points. Visitors will enjoy moderate grades, diverse forests and geological insight at Lena Lake:
The trail rises steadily on long, winding switchbacks in a second growth forest. It gains 500' in the first mile, then moderates in a mix of new and old growth fir and cedar (1.5 miles : 1,440').
The trail reaches a scenic bridge spanning a dry creek bed where Lena Creek once passed (1.8 miles : 1,555'). The winding climb resumes to a second bridge (2.6 miles : 1,895'), and eases to the Lena Lake -- Upper Lena Lake split (3.0 miles : 1,953').
Follow signs (right) to a large rock outcrop over the west shore of Lena Lake (3.05 miles : 1,940'). Lena Lake fills a deep, heavily wooded bowl whose waterline is difficult to reach from this point. Continue up the west shore to campsites and more accommodating lake access points.
Upper Lena Lake is located 3.5 miles from Lena Lake and is significantly more strenuous. Only prepared hikers should attempt Upper Lena Lake. Note that a separate National Park Permit is required to camp at Upper Lena Lake. These are available at the trailhead. Additional fees and seasonal reservations apply.
Interactive GPS Topo Map
Key GPS Coordinates - DATUM WGS84
- N47 35.989 W123 09.067 — 0.0 miles : Lena Lake Trailhead (Trail #810)
- N47 36.079 W123 09.397 — .5 miles : Steady climb on switchbacks
- N47 36.183 W123 09.513 — 1.0 miles : Steady climb on switchbacks
- N47 36.641 W123 09.612 — 1.8 miles : Cross bridge over dry creek
- N47 36.931 W123 09.839 — 2.6 miles : Cross second bridge
- N47 37.217 W123 09.755 — 3.0 miles : Lena Lake - Upper Lena Lake split
- N47 37.205 W123 09.728 — 3.05 miles : Lena Lake
Worth Noting
- This is a heavily used trail. Anticipate heavy crowds, especially on summer weekends.
- Rails have been built to discourage short-cutting switchbacks. Support restoration efforts by remaining on designated trails at all times.
Camping and Backpacking Information
- Camping is permitted at Lena Lake.There are 28 campsites with fire rings on the lake's north shore.
Fishing Information
- Fishing is permitted at Lena Lake.
Rules and Regulations
- There's a $5 day use fee to park and recreate in the Olympic National Forest. Self registration and pay envelopes are available at the trailhead. There are several inter-agency passes (e.g. National Park Pass) that are accepted and waive the fee.
- Dogs are permitted in the Olympic National Forest. Dogs must be leashed at all times.
Directions to Trailhead
The Lena Lake Trailhead is located 7.5 miles west of HWY 101 on Forest Road 25 (Hamma Hamma Road).
FR 25 / Hamma Hamma Road is located approximately 14 miles north of Hoodsport, and 22 miles south of Quilcene. From 101, turn west on FS 25 and follow the paved road to the trailhead. Note the road splits right at 6.1 miles.
Contact Information
Olympic National Forest | Hood Canal Ranger District - Quilcene
295142 Highway 101 S.
PO Box 280
Quilcene, WA 98376
360.765.2200
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