Trip report by Martin Susser
Deer Park is a campground from which several trails begin/end. The trail my father and I took heads west towards Green Mountain. It is a beautiful hike which begins in a noble fir forest and slowly changes to a pine forest.
The trail is placed on top of a ridge, so as you walk you get occasional breath taking views of various unnamed peaks. After about an hour of walking you begin to break out of the trees into a wonderful alpine meadow with constant views. Lots of Lupine, Indian Paintbrush, Azaleas and a plethora of other flowers were in bloom (too many different varieties to count). The variety of colorful flowers was really incredible. There were blue, pink, red, fusia, yellow, orange, violet, white and various hues in between. I wish I'ld brought my camera (oh well, gives me an excuse to go up again :) ). As my father said, "It's like walking through a garden". If you scamble to some of the peaks you can get views of the Cascades and Puget Sound.
The trail was very easy to hike and would make for a great jogging path. Deer Park is at about 5200 feet or so and after 4 miles we were at 6200 feet.
Use USGS topo map: Maiden Peak. Looking at the map, there are many different places to hike to such as Obstuction Peak, Grand Lake, Grand Valley, Badger Valley, Cameron Creek and so on. Get the maps and you will see that there is a lot that can be seen and done from Deer Park.
Stats: 4 miles one way, 1000' elevation gain, trailhead 5200', highest point 6200'.
Getting there: To get there, take 101 past Sequim. Just before Port Angeles there will be a Toyota Dealer on the South side of 101. Turn South at the Toyota Dealer. This will place you on Dear Park Road. Now just drive about 17 miles and you will be there. Though the road is in good shape, towards the end it is quite narrow. In fact, one of the most narrow roads I've been on in the Olympics.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.