Pack Forest - Trail of the Giants

In the foothills west of Mount Rainier is the 4,300-acre University of Washington research site known as the Charles Pack Experimental Forest. Second-growth Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar dominate most of the forest, but the Trail of Giants winds through 300 acres of lowland old-growth forest. This loop takes you up a gravel road, then along the Trail of the Giants, and back along the Hugo Peak Trail.

From the visitor parking area, hike up Road 1000, which ascends steadily and passes several hiking and equestrian trails. The road winds through deep shade, sunny clearings, and eventually into an old-growth forest. At about 1.8 miles, you’ll reach a junction of gravel roads (with a porta-potty). On the right, you’ll see a wooden trailhead sign for the Trail of the Giants, a narrow footpath that beckons you into the mystery of the old-growth forest.

A short distance in, a worn wooden sign provides information about the age of this stand of old trees. The trail dips down a bit and then ascends again, and at one point, a fallen giant, leveled off for secure walking, serves as part of the trail. After about 0.5 mile, the trail becomes a little difficult to distinguish as the forest opens up. Look to your left (uphill) and you’ll see where the trail climbs a little more and intersects a gravel road. Turn left on the road and return to the junction.

Cross the junction and take Road 1080 uphill, where you’ll soon see a sign for the Hugo Peak Trail. You can turn right if you want to climb a little more and reach the top of Hugo Peak (elevation 1,752 ft). Otherwise, turn left. You’ll soon come to a fork, where you should bear right to follow the Hugo Peak Trail downhill until it reaches Road 1000. Turn right to return to the parking area.

There are many miles of trails available for hiking, biking, or riding in the Pack Forest. It may be tempting to drive to the more distant trailheads, but please don’t — private motor vehicles are not allowed on the Pack Forest roads.

WTA Pro-Tip: Keep your eyes and ears open for wildlife: there are deer, elk, coyotes and bears in Pack Forest. Hunting is allowed Fridays through Sundays during hunting season.