High Divide Trail Loop
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The High Divide ridge is fully exposed with steep drop-offs on both sides. In fog or rain, route-finding becomes difficult and the rocky tread gets slick — turn back if visibility drops below a few hundred feet.
Snow lingers on the north-facing slopes well into July most years, sometimes requiring ice axe and microspikes. Check recent trip reports before committing to an early-season attempt.
Black bears are common in Seven Lakes Basin and along the Sol Duc corridor. Bear canisters are required for overnight trips, and even day hikers should know how to handle a close encounter.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Hike the loop counterclockwise — you'll hit the High Divide ridge in the afternoon when the light on Mount Olympus is best and the morning fog has burned off the valleys below.
Cache extra water before the climb out of Sol Duc Valley. The ridge section above Seven Lakes Basin can be dry by late August, and you'll want at least three liters for the exposed traverse.
If you can swing an overnight permit, camp at Heart Lake and catch sunrise from the High Divide before day hikers arrive. The permit system fills fast — apply through recreation.gov the moment the window opens in spring.
