What is the current status of fall colors and berry availability?

Fall colors are in full swing, with reports from [September 20](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-21.210851098339) and [September 22](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-24.111410698764) noting their gorgeous appearance. Berries are mostly gone for the season as of September 20, with one report from August 26 also noting most huckleberries were gone.

Have there been any recent bear sightings?

Yes, bears have been reported recently. One hiker saw a giant bear about 30 feet away on September 3, and other sightings include bears on [August 30](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-30.104516344658), [August 30](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-30.141009561592), and August 26. One report from September 3 mentions heavy rain when they lost gear, suggesting caution.

Are there any notable trail obstacles or conditions to be aware of?

The trail is generally in good condition with no reported blowdown. However, it is described as rocky in certain sections, with the descent to Lunch Lake being a 'knee buster' of staggered uneven stone steps as of [September 17](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-20.202440017112). The trail can also be exposed to the sun, so sun protection is recommended as noted on September 17.

What are the parking conditions like at the trailhead?

Parking at the Sol Duc Trailhead is usually plentiful, with reports from [September 5](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-07.184343493984) and [August 26](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-27.095218279189) indicating that even with crowds, spaces become available quickly as day hikers depart. One report from August 30 specifically mentions that if you wait a few minutes, someone is usually heading back to their car.

High Divide - Seven Lakes Basin Loop

Olympic Peninsula

updated 3 days ago

The High Divide - Seven Lakes Basin Loop is in excellent condition, with reports from September 20 to September 22 indicating no snow and the roads are suitable for all vehicles. Hikers are experiencing gorgeous fall colors, with berries mostly gone, and are hearing elk bugling in the valleys. While no significant blowdown or major trail obstacles are mentioned, the trail is described as rocky in sections, particularly on descents. Wildlife sightings have included bears and deer. Most reports indicate no significant bug issues.

Generated from 67 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about High Divide - Seven Lakes Basin Loop

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 3 days ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

Fall colors are in full swing, with reports from September 20 and September 22 noting their gorgeous appearance. Berries are mostly gone for the season as of September 20, with one report from August 26 also noting most huckleberries were gone.