This trail leads nearly four and a half miles southward from Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. It passes Mink Lake two and a half miles from the trailhead.

The Mink Lake Trail leads nearly four and a half miles southward from Sol Duc Hot Springs to the Little Divide Trail. the route ascends 2,500 feet to the crest of Little Divide from the Sol Duc River floor. Good camping opportunities lie at Mink Lake. Backpackers can use the Mink Lake Trail in conjunction with various other routes in the Bogachiel and Sol Duc valleys to create a long wilderness trek.

Begin this hike from the trailhead at the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort at approximately 1,600 feet. The route crosses the Sol Duc River and begins to climb slowly out of the valley floor. Less than a mile into the hike the terrain steepens and the trail makes a few switchbacks.

The track reaches the outlet stream of Mink Lake approximately two miles from the trailhead. The elevation of the trail at this point is 2,790 feet. It continues to follow the western side of this small stream for a half mile to Mink Lake. Backpackers will find good camping at the lake with fishing and bird watching opportunities.

Beyond the lake the trail contours the western valley wall for slightly less than a mile then ascends westward. It turns southward again and crosses meadowlands for three-quarters of a mile to reach a trail junction four and a half miles from the trailhead. This junction lies at 4,130 feet. The Bogachiel River Trail leads to the right and the Little Divide Trail leads to the left.

Directions: From junction of Highway 101 and Sol Duc River Road, Drive southward on the Sol Duc River Road 12 miles to Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. Park in the day-use area and cross the river to begin the Mink Lake Trail.

Elevation: 1,600 feet

Ending Elevation: 2,500 feet

Usage: Heavy

Difficulty: Moderate

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