The trail to Deer Lake follows the Sol Duc River to Canyon Creek and ascends that drainage to Deer Lake. It gains 1,600 feet in three miles.

The trail to Deer Lake lies with in the Sol Duc River valley. It climbs the Canyon Creek Valley to Deer Lake beyond which it joins the High Divide Trail. The trail ascends 1,600 feet to Deer Lake. It can be combined with the High Divide Trail and the Sol Duc Trail to form a 19 mile loop.

Begin this hike from the Sol Duc Trailhead at the end of Sol Duc River Road. The trail follows the northern bank of the river almost one mile before reaching a junction. The trail to the right leads across the river to Canyon Creek. Follow this trail, crossing the river to another junction. At this fork follow the left side. (The right side is the eastern terminus of the Lovers Lane Trail.)

From this junction the ascent begins. The trail uses switchbacks to climb the Canyon Creek drainage. Approximately one mile south of the Lovers Lane Trail junction the Deer Lake Trail reaches Canyon Creek. Cross the creek, the trail begins to climb steeply on the western side of Canyon Creek. The steep ascent continues for two miles on the western side of the creek. A short distance north of the lake the trail levels and crosses the lake outlet. It circles the eastern shoreline of Deer Lake, crossing the inlet stream and joins the High Divide Trail. The subalpine terrain surrounding the lake is very fragile and sees many visitors. Please lower your impact on the area by remaining on the developed trail.

Directions: From junction of Highway 101 and Sol Duc River Road, Drive southward on the Sol Duc River Road 14 miles to roads end and the Sol Duc Trailhead. Follow the Sol Duc River Trail almost one mile to a junction with the Deer Lake Trail. Cross the river and begin your ascent up the Canyon Creek drainage to Deer Lake.

Elevation: 2,000 feet

Ending Elevation: 3,600 feet

Usage: Moderate

Difficulty: Moderate

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