Nestled in majestic old-growth forest on the banks of the crystal clear cascading river of the same name, Ohanapecosh welcomes visitors to the national park’s lush, emerald southeastern corner. At an elevation of only 1,900 feet and surrounded by deep primeval forest, Ohanapecosh offers quite a contrast to the alpine meadows and snowfields found in the park’s higher elevations. Visitors to Ohanapecosh won’t find any lodging or food service like at Longmire, Sunrise, and Paradise, but instead can set up their tent or RV in the park’s inviting campground. And due to Ohanapecosh’s low elevation and sheltered environment (sitting somewhat in a rain-shadow), the campground opens earlier and closes later than the park’s Cougar Rock and White River campgrounds.
The National Park Service policy of not developing resorts within park boundaries has barred its use as a soaking/swimming spring, with the goal of maintaining its natural state. It opens during the summer and closes during the winter, usually starting around mid to late June. The trail loop is around a half mile long and will take around 13 minutes to complete, though dogs are not allowed on the trail.
