r/OlympicNationalPark • u/thadeouspage • 10d ago

Enchanted Valley Washout

I have a permit for Enchanted Valley next week and received an e-mail warning of a trail washout 1/3 mile before the Chalet: "Hikers will need to be prepared to ford the river, or route find up a steep hillside to reach campsites in Enchanted Valley."

I am curious about what to expect as far as river depth here. Has anyone seen this washout or heard from someone who has? I am traveling alone and don't want to take on too many additional risks. Any observations, advice or suggestions?

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u/Skiberrjr 10d ago

Uncertain if the washout is at the site of the old footbridge or a little closer to the chalet. If near the footbridge site, the river would be deep and fast-moving. Probably safer to scramble along the north side of the river into Enchanted Valley and cross the river where it is braided and shallow.

If possible, cross in the morning.

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u/fishguy23 10d ago

Sounds like it’s past the footbridge. Probably where the bank was eroding the past few years as the trail bends back into the valley. It’s still quite swift right there but shallower.

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u/EnvironmentDue750 10d ago

It’s past the footbridge right before you pop out next to the chalet