How to Hike to the Base of Hamma Hamma Falls
Hamma Hamma Falls is a two tiered waterfall located not far off the 101 and is a must see if you are doing a trip around the Olympic Peninsula. The view from the bridge is beautiful, but the real magic lies below.
How do I get there?
If you type “Hamma Hamma Falls” into your Google app, it’ll send you to where you need to go!
When is the best time to visit?
To ensure you can drive all the way to the top, wait until after May. The first time we visited Hamma Hamma was probably around the beginning of May and we had to park about a mile and a half down the road because there was still so much snow left.
On a cloudy summer day, I’m sure it doesn’t matter what time you visit the falls. The lighting will never be too harsh to create that washed out look in your photos. On a sunny day, I suggest waiting until early evening.
Will I need a 4x4?
No. We did the drive to the bridge in a 2WD. For about 7.5 miles after you get off the 101 you will be on a paved road. Shortly after the Lena Lake trailhead the road become gravel the rest of the way. It does have some potholes, but honestly it’s nowhere near the worst road we’ve been on.
Where is the trail?
Before the bridge. As you are approaching the last curve before the bridge, the road will widen for parking along the side. You will see a railing start on the left side and a sign by the railing. Just a couple feet beyond the sign is the start of trail to the bottom.
The first 100 feet or so (my measurements are estimates) are pretty steep. At this point, you will come to a an intersection. The right will dead end very quickly, but you are awarded with a view. To the left the trail continues, but it is not well worn and at some points it may look like it has almost disappeared. Just take your time. There are a couple places where you may turn right towards the water too soon, but it will be obviously when the trail ends and you have to backtrack a few steps. Eventually you will come to a big tree stump. You will be able to see the river bank from here. I’m guessing at this point you’ve walked about a quarter of a mile. This is where you’ll have another steep descent (maybe about 50 feet). Once you get to the river bank you will start to walk upstream towards the waterfall. After approximately 75 feet you will see another not-so-worn path a little inland. (If you don’t take this you’d be forced into the water by fallen boulders) You’ll have to navigate under and over a few fallen logs, walk through a mossy floored area and then you’ve made it to the falls. Please take your time through this section as to not destroy the moss. Follow where others have walked as much as possible.
How long does the hike take?
To get to the bottom should take you no longer than 30 minutes. The more often and familiar you become with the hike, you should be able to easily do it in 20 minutes. As with any hike, make sure to bring water. The hike back up is harder and you may need to stop for a couple breaks. Also worth noting, you probably won’t have cell service so maybe this is best done with another person.
