How to Hike Ludlow Falls Interpretive Trail in Port Ludlow, WA

Washington State has tons of beautiful waterfalls, many are easily accessible. On our way from Seattle to Olympic National Park, we actually made a quick stop at one of those waterfalls to stretch our legs. Located at Port Ludlow, Washington, Ludlow Falls is a small, 30-foot waterfall hidden between a short, yet beautiful hike, the Ludlow Falls Interpretive Trail. This trail is quite popular among the locals.

Stats

Where

Ludlow Falls Trailhead
44 Breaker Ln, Port Ludlow, WA 98365
47.918645, -122.705426

Parking

Small paved parking lot

Restroom

There is no restroom

Fee

It is free to hike

Distance

0.5 mi Loop

Elevation Gain

98 ft

Level

Easy

Time:

15 – 30 minutes

Pet-friendly

You can bring your pet, but they have to be on a leash.

Ideal Time

This trail is beautiful year-round. It is a popular trail for walking and running so get there early, or on a weekday if you want some solitude.

Weather

Video

Getting to Ludlow Falls Interpretive Trail

0.2 miles northwest of the Hood Canal bridge, on Highway 104, turn north on Paradise Bay Road. After about 6 miles, turn left on Breaker Lane. Then, take the first left and follow the access road all the way to the end of the road. There is a small parking where the trail starts.

The Start of the Trail

After we parked, we headed toward the gravel trail, cradled in between the green grass. There is a big sign, in the beginning, marking the way. The trail quickly leaves the grassy area and enters a lush forest. After a short distance, we reached the metal sign that signifies the start of the Ludlow Falls Interpretive Trail Loop. Since this is a loop, you can go either way. We went left first.

Once we went left, the trail follows through a forest full of ferns and moss. Along the way, we ran into a couple of adorable dogs. The trail also went under a really cool fallen tree that still has many smaller trees growing on top of it. It was quite interesting to see. Apparently, this is quite normal here. However, coming from Southern California, we were very intrigued. There are many interpretive signs along the way. It was very informative to learn about this beautiful area. Eventually, we reached a junction where we turn right to follow the trail downhill.

The Second Half of the Loop and Ludlow Falls

The Ludlow Falls Interpretive Trail then continues to snake through a luxurious green forest with many tall trees where it reaches a creek. The view of the creek is quite lovely. We couldn’t help but stop for some photos. Then, we followed to trail to climb up the stairs to a view of the waterfalls. We noticed that we could walk down a steep path to get closer to the waterfalls. We recommend going down to the fences so you’ll have a better look at it.

Once we were done spending time at the waterfalls, we continue to follow the loop trail back. After a short walk, we reached a small wooden bridge. Soon after crossing the bridge, we reached back to the start of the Ludlow Falls Interpretive Trail loop. From here, go left to get back to the car. If you like short trails with big payoffs, check out Sol Duc Falls, Marymere Falls, Devil’s Punchbowl, and Ancient Groves. We also recommend Dungeness Spit if you want to hike to a super cool Lighthouse. This hike is easy but very long though, 10 miles total.

These are the gear that we personally use and find them helpful for this particular adventure. Don’t forget to check out our Recommended Gear section as well.