The third annual State Lands September is sponsored by the Sierra Club and features events hosted by local groups across Western Washington. These events explore what the forests of the future look like and the tools we have to make that future happen! To see the other State Lands September Events see the Sierra clubs calendar here.

Last year 111 acres around Lake Sutherland were put into conservation through the Climate Commitment Act. This legacy forest was scheduled to be clear cut in 2028 but the local community and Elwha Legacy Forest coalition stepped in to stop it. We will have special access to some of the biggest old growth trees in the forest through the trails at the adjacent Wandering Joy Campground. We are grateful to the campground owners for inviting us to walk the forest and learn about forest conservation in their beautiful private campground!

What to Bring: Weather appropriate clothing, trekking poles, hiking footwear, drinking water, snacks.

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate. 1.6 miles round trip, completely on a trail. Expect slight inclines and uneven rocky surfaces. Trekking poles are recommended.

Directions: From Port Angeles (21 min, 15.2 miles)

Wandering Joy Campground

233035, US-101, Port Angeles, WA 98363

Accessibility Statement: While we strive to create an inclusive and accessible experience for all participants, we recognize that individual needs may vary. If you have specific accessibility concerns or require accommodations to participate in the hike, please contact us in advance so that we may assist you to the best of our ability.

Photo of the Lake Sutherland forest, from Scott McGee @forest2seaphotography