A Morning in Sol Duc

WashingtonOlympicNational Park

Overlook Overlook

During our recent trip to Washington, we set out for a hike on the Lovers Lane, B-Loop, and Sol Duc Nature Trail Loop in Olympic National Park. At 5.8 miles, the trail is moderately challenging but absolutely worth the effort. It was a warm and sunny morning, and the forest felt alive with the sounds of nature.

Trail View Trail View

Forest in Motion

Trail View Trail View

The moment we stepped into the lush, moss-draped woods, we were met with the gentle sound of rustling leaves and bubbling streams.

Spanish Foxglove Spanish Foxglove

Towering evergreens arched overhead, filtering soft sunlight onto the ferns and forest floor below. The trail meandered past ancient trees, wooden bridges, and quiet glades.

Trail View Trail View

A Welcome from the Thrush

Varied Thrush Varied Thrush

Not long into the hike, we heard the ethereal call of a Varied Thrush. It perched on a low branch, offering us a clear look at its bold plumage and striking black band.

Overlook Overlook

Seeing it so early on set the tone for what would become a wonderful morning of birdwatching.

Trail View Trail View

Tiny Voice, Big Presence

Pacific Wren Pacific Wren

One of the loudest voices in the forest came from one of its smallest residents: the Pacific Wren. Its energetic trill echoed through the trees as we spotted it hopping along a mossy log.

Trail View Trail View

It’s always amazing how such a small bird can fill the woods with its song.

Trail View Trail View

Drumming in the Distance

Hairy Woodpecker Hairy Woodpecker

As we made our way deeper into the loop, we heard a rhythmic drumming sound echoing through the trees. Sure enough, we soon saw a pair of Hairy Woodpeckers working their way up two neighboring trunks. Their crisp black-and-white plumage stood out beautifully against the green backdrop.

Trail View Trail View

A Splash of Yellow

Wilson’s Warbler Wilson’s Warbler

Near a creek crossing, we came across a group of Wilson’s Warblers flitting through the undergrowth.

Waterfall Waterfall

Their bright yellow bodies and black caps were a cheerful sight, and we paused to watch them forage among the low branches and leaves.

Trail View Trail View

The Classic Forest Sentinel

Steller’s Jay Steller’s Jay

A pair of Steller’s Jays made a dramatic entrance with their bold blue feathers and sharp calls. They were curious and animated, hopping through branches and occasionally glancing our way. We always enjoy their confident, slightly mischievous personality.

Trail View Trail View

A Loop Full of Life

Trail View Trail View

The loop took us through a beautiful range of environments—shaded trails, open meadows, and stretches along the Sol Duc River.

Trail View Trail View

Each section had its own charm and sounds, and the birds added a vibrant soundtrack to the experience.

Banana Slug Banana Slug

A Perfect Morning in the Park

Waterfall Waterfall

The Lovers Lane and Sol Duc Loop turned out to be one of our favorite hikes of the trip. With scenic views, peaceful surroundings, and a great variety of birds, it was a perfect way to spend a morning in Olympic National Park.

Bunchberry dogwood Bunchberry dogwood

We'll definitely be back to explore more of its quiet beauty.

Trail View Trail View

Length: 5.8 (miles)
Difficulty: moderate
Date of the hike: 2025-07-06