Green Mountain Loop via Gold Creek Trail

Starting your adventure near Kitsap County, Washington, the Green Mountain Loop via Gold Creek Trail offers a rewarding 10 km (6.2 miles) journey with an elevation gain of approximately 300 meters (984 feet). This loop trail is rated medium in difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the Gold Creek Trailhead, located near the Green Mountain State Forest. The nearest significant landmark is the Wildcat Lake Park, which is a short drive away. For those using public transport, the Kitsap Transit system offers routes that can get you close to the trailhead, but you may need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare for the final leg of the journey.

Trail Overview The trail begins at the Gold Creek Trailhead, where you will find ample parking and basic facilities. As you start your hike, you'll be greeted by a dense forest of Douglas firs and western hemlocks. The initial section is relatively flat, allowing you to ease into the hike.

Key Landmarks and Sections - **Gold Creek**: About 1.5 km (0.9 miles) into the hike, you'll encounter Gold Creek. This is a great spot to take a short break and enjoy the serene sounds of flowing water. The creek is also home to various species of fish, so keep an eye out for them. - **Elevation Gain**: After crossing Gold Creek, the trail begins to ascend more steeply. Over the next 3 km (1.9 miles), you'll gain most of the 300 meters (984 feet) in elevation. This section can be challenging, so pace yourself and take breaks as needed. - **Green Mountain Summit**: At approximately 5 km (3.1 miles), you'll reach the summit of Green Mountain. Here, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. This is an excellent spot for lunch or a longer rest.

Flora and Fauna The trail is rich in biodiversity. In addition to the towering Douglas firs and western hemlocks, you'll find a variety of understory plants such as salal, Oregon grape, and ferns. Wildlife is abundant, with chances to see black-tailed deer, various bird species, and even the occasional black bear. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve this beautiful ecosystem.

Historical Significance The Green Mountain area has a rich history, originally inhabited by the Suquamish Tribe. The region was later used for logging in the early 20th century, and remnants of old logging roads can still be seen along the trail. These historical elements add an extra layer of interest to your hike.

Navigation To ensure you stay on track, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER. The app provides detailed maps and real-time GPS tracking, which can be particularly useful in the more remote sections of the trail.

Final Descent and Return After enjoying the summit, the trail loops back down through a series of switchbacks. This descent can be steep in places, so watch your footing. The final 2 km (1.2 miles) are relatively flat, leading you back to the Gold Creek Trailhead.

By the end of your hike, you'll have experienced a diverse range of landscapes, from lush forests to stunning mountain vistas, all while traversing a trail rich in natural beauty and historical significance.