“Vampires behind us, mountains ahead”
Route Summary: Forks → US-101 → Sol Duc Hot Springs Rd → Lake Crescent Lodge
- Distance: 42 miles
- Terrain: Rolling hills with one significant climb
- Road Type: Paved highway shoulder and forest roads
Elevation Profile
- Starting in Forks: The route begins at an elevation of about 300 feet, with relatively flat terrain as you leave the town.
- Rolling Hills: Traveling along Highway 101, you’ll encounter a series of rolling hills through lush forests, with moderate climbs and descents.
- Climbing Toward Lake Crescent: The route climbs gradually as you approach the western side of Lake Crescent. This is the most sustained elevation gain of the ride.
- Around Lake Crescent: The stretch around Lake Crescent includes a mix of flat and gently rolling terrain, with stunning views. The Olympic Discovery Trail offers a cyclist-friendly path along this portion.
- Descent to Crescent Lake Lodge: As you near Crescent Lake Lodge, the elevation drops slightly, with a smooth ride into the lodge area near the lake.
This ride is more demanding than Forks to Rialto Beach but is rewarding with beautiful scenery and a variety of terrains.
Points of Interest
- Sol Duc Valley Entrance
- Olympic National Park gateway
- Ancient forest corridor
- Salmon Cascades Overlook
- Seasonal salmon viewing
- Lake Crescent
- Glacially carved lake
- Remarkably clear blue waters
- Historic Lake Crescent Lodge
- Roosevelt Fireplace Room
- Historic photos collection
Photo Opportunities
- Sol Duc River Bridge (mile 15)
- Morning mist over river
- Old growth forest backdrop
- Windy Point Overlook (mile 28)
- Olympic Mountain vistas
- Good spot for group photos
- Lake Crescent First View (mile 37)
- Afternoon light on lake
- Frame shot through trees
- Roosevelt Cottage (mile 42)
- Historic architecture
- Lake backdrop
Side Trips
- Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort (6 miles each way)
- Natural hot springs pools
- Day use available
- Restaurant on site
- Sol Duc Falls Trail (1.6 miles hiking)
- Worth the walk
- Lock bikes at trailhead
- Best waterfall photos in morning
Lodging Options
- Lake Crescent Lodge
- 416 Lake Crescent Rd
- (888) 896-3818
- Historic rooms from $159
- Roosevelt Fireplace Room worth splurge
- Secure bike storage available
- Fairholme Campground
- West end of Lake Crescent
- $20/night
- No reservations, arrive early
- Bear boxes provided
- Log Cabin Resort
- North shore of lake
- (888) 896-3818
- Cheaper alternative to Lodge
- Rustic cabins from $89
Food & Resupply
- Hungry Bear Café (mile 12)
- Last hot food before lake
- Huge portions
- Famous blackberry pie
- Fairholme Store (seasonal)
- Basic supplies
- Ice cream selection
- Limited groceries
- Lake Crescent Lodge Dining Room
- Reservation recommended
- Local fish specials
- Excellent wine list
- Pricey but worth it
Local Favorites
- Hungry Bear Café
- “Logger’s Special” breakfast
- Get slice of pie for later
- Local mushroom omelette in fall
- Lake Crescent Lodge Bar
- Local draft beers
- Happy hour 4-6pm
- Deck seating in summer
Daily Summary & Tips
A more challenging day with beautiful rewards. The climb up to Sol Duc Hot Springs Road is gradual but long. Lake Crescent provides a stunning finale, especially in evening light.
Pro Tips:
- Start early to avoid highway traffic
- Bring layers – temperature varies significantly in valleys
- Limited cell service after Sol Duc junction
- Call ahead for Lodge dining reservations
- Watch for elk near dusk
Gear Note: If staying at Lodge, take advantage of their laundry service – next opportunity isn’t until Port Angeles.
Local Knowledge: The lake water is safe to drink (but filter it). Fed by glaciers, it’s some of the clearest water in Washington.
Tomorrow: We join the Olympic Discovery Trail and head for Port Angeles!