Hiking Olympic National Park
By Erik Molvar

Sam's River Loop

This 2.8-mile trail begins from the Queets River trailhead running eastward along 
the open banks of the Sam's River. The trail soon turns inland into a rainforest 
of hemlock, Sitka spruce and bigleaf maple that is underlain by a rich assortment 
of ferns and shrubs. A grove of red alder surrounds a small woodland brook, and 
after crossing it the trail enters a tunnel of moss-hung vine maples. After some 
distance, this tunnel of greenery opens out into a large clearing, the former site 
of a homestead. A few feral fruit trees grow in the opening, the only remaining 
sign of the pioneers' efforts. Shrubs and ferns are encroaching as the forest 
slowly reclaims itself. The trail then passes through a stand of young spruce, 
then crosses the Queets River Road to reach the ranger station. Nearing the Queets 
River, the trail crosses one more meadow and turns east along its well-lit banks. 
The remainder of the trail passes among ancient spruces and through a lush growth 
of sword ferns. The trail emerges onto the road just below the camping area; turn 
left to follow the road back to the trailhead.