Spruce Railroad

Description:

• This trail follows the path of the Spruce Railroad that leads along the northern shoreline of Lake Crescent. The trail is easy with little elevation gain. Abandoned railroad tunnels can be found along the route as well as sweeping views of the lake and terrain south of it. This route is accessible year round, but ticks and crowds make it less hospitable during the summer months. Mountain biking is permitted on this trail.

  This route can be hiked or biked from north to south or south to north. This description details the route from Boundary Creek Road southward. Park in the trailhead parking area and begin hiking eastward to the lakeshore. After a short distance the trail gains elevation slightly to reach the railroad grade. Beyond this the trail contours the shoreline after avoiding a few private residences early in the trek.

  Less than one mile from the trailhead a spur trail leads to the left. This short trail ends a Harrigan Point with views south across the lake to Mt. Storm King. Continuing along the main trail the next landmark is Devils Point. This headland lies one mile from the trailhead and serves as the high point of the Spruce Railroad Trail.

  Beyond Devils Point the track hugs the shoreline. Three miles from the trailhead you'll notice a railroad tunnel through the southeastern base of Pyramid Mountain. Across the lake from this, the second railroad tunnel, is the mouth of Barnes Creek and the Lake Crescent Lodge. The trail turns westward at this point and leads one mile to the southern terminus of the tread. The last segment of the route descends from the railroad grade to the trailhead.