Despite the lack of accurate trail reports, we spent six days hiking from the North Quinalt Ranger Station to Whiskey Bend. We had a wonderful time! Except for about a half mile north of Lake Mary (heading down to Chicago Camp), the trail had been cleared of slash. Finding a route around and through the debris field just south of 12 mile camp on the Quinalt side was a bit of a challenge, otherwise the trail is in excellent condition. Low Divide still has a lot of snow and some caution is required to avoid falling through the snow in places just south of the first stock gate on the Quinalt side. The mosquitos were terrible at Trapper and almost bearable Chicago Camp. The crossings at 16 mile and Chicago Camp are made easier by the trees which span both rivers. The rope at 16 mile is very helpful if you don't mind getting a little wet. In both instances, the rivers were between 2 and 3 feet deep, and very swift. We hiked up to Happy Hollow and enjoyed a beautiful sunset. The Elwha Basin trail is in good shape as far as the Shelter. That's as far as we went. The Elwha River is still quite high, fishing will have to wait a year.

The North Fork Trail has been cleared by trail crew as far as Trapper Creek. Snow is first encountered at Kimpta Creek. Creek crossings may be hazardous.

NORTH FORK QUINAULT RIVER TRAIL, NORTH FORK TO LOW DIVIDE: Trail has been cleared of windfall to Rustler Creek, where the snow cover becomes solid. Stream crossings are extremely hazardous due to steep, tall snow banks; also watch for collapsing snow bridges over streams. The Wild Rose, Elip, and 16 Mile stream crossings have no foot logs or bridges and must be forded. Use caution, as these streams become deep and swift with melting snow, and may be difficult or impossible to cross during or after storms. Pay attention to the weather forecast and the weather, don't become trapped behind a rapidly rising stream. The Low Divide area is under deep snow, beware of the considerable avalanche exposure in the area. Trail is closed to stock use by order of the Park Superintendent until further notice.