Big Quilcene River

The Big Quilcene River is located on the eastern side of the Olympic Peninsula. It has carved itself a wonderful gorge several miles long and up to 300 feet deep. There are a few small waterfalls and many wet seeps on the steep canyon walls. It is a strenuous trip which is well worth the effort. The river has part of its water diverted above the gorge to provide Port Townsend’s water supply. This description is based on conditions which existed during a trip in late September after a dry summer. The gage near the river mouth was over 40 CFS. There was considerable current in the river.

After dropping a shuttle car at the Rainbow Campground, head north about 3.5mi and turn left into Penny Creek Rd. At about 1.5mi, bear left on Big Quilcene River Rd (FR 27) for 1.8mi. At a Y-junction, bear left for a final 1.8mi to where it runs close to the river. Park and head down at any convenient spot directly to the river.

Head downstream and you'll enter the Quilcene Gorge quickly, soon reaching: Downstream, there are two other small waterfalls which can present a challenge. After about 0.5mi, One-and-a-Half-Mile Creek enters DCR.

After about 1.4 miles, the river abruptly turns left and heads off north. The canyon widens out and the walls are less steep. Look for a trail DCR leading up from the river to the Rainbow Campground. It can be easy to miss.