Seven Lakes Basin & the High Divide

Trail notes from one of the most exceptional 2-3 day backpacking trips in Olympic National Park.

Last fall, in need of inspiration and late summer sun, I took a day hike up to the High Divide in Olympic National Park.

The first time the High Divide and I became properly acquainted was a few of years ago when I was hiking up from Sol Duc Falls to Deer Lake. Though I’d been hearing about it for a while as the most popular backpacking trip in Olympic National Park, I’d shied away from it as the name itself — the High Divide — sounded daunting to my nascent backpacking ears. Even still, I was lured by the mountains to go beyond Sol Duc Falls and up the rocky trail to Deer Lake.

Deer Lake it was so stunning, it took my breath away. My heart burst wide open and I cried with joy right then and there.

For a while, Deer Lake was the furthest I’d go on the trail, still wary of what lay beyond. Terribly afraid of heights as I am, I’d pictured the High Divide as a narrow, rocky ridge-line that steeply plummeted on both sides of the trail. But as my hiking skills grew stronger, so did my curiosity. What did the High Divide actually look like…? Could it possibly live up to the hype?

So putting on my courage cap, I decided to give it a try.

The first time I made it up to the High Divide was in late spring of this year, and due to the snow above Deer Lake, very few people had ventured in — which means I had it all to myself (a near impossibility in summer months). The exposed northern slopes were filled with snow, but it was springtime in the forested areas where snowpack had melted and flowers were blooming.

When I stepped out into the High Divide from one of these forests, my jaw dropped and my heart again flooded with joy. This was no narrow rocky precipice-! This was a sanctuary of the most exquisite beauty. The mountains were vibrating with aliveness, flowers and plants in full bloom, with all of it radiating love to anyone who was willing to receive it.

So last fall, I wanted to come back — after the crowds of summer had gone, mind you — so that I could see what it looked like without snow. I am delighted to say that it did not disappoint!

Again I felt such love radiating from these mountains, as though we were old friends who were once again united.

One day — once I’m properly permitted as a trip-leading business in ONP — I’ll lead a trip here. But for now, dear reader, may this post serve as hiking inspiration. 💜 🥾 🏔️