Sunnybrook Meadows

For Washingtonians with a passion for true wilderness adventure, Sunnybrook Meadows offers an unparalleled escape into the heart of Olympic National Park. This stunning backcountry destination, nestled within the Dosewallips region, is a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of our state's mountains. More than just a place to pitch a tent, Sunnybrook Meadows provides a profoundly immersive experience, characterized by challenging hikes, vibrant subalpine meadows, and access to some of the most spectacular high-alpine vistas in the Pacific Northwest.

The journey to Sunnybrook Meadows is an adventure in itself. While it involves a significant uphill trek, particularly after the initial "easy gradual uphill" on the abandoned Dosewallips Road, the effort is consistently described as "worth every foot" for the reward of flowering meadows and expansive views. This camp is a favorite among those seeking a multi-night backpacking experience, allowing ample time to explore the surrounding trails, including those leading to the dramatic Constance Pass and serene Home Lake. It's a place where you truly disconnect, leaving behind the hustle and bustle for the serene sounds of nature.

Sunnybrook Meadows embodies the spirit of self-sufficient wilderness travel, requiring campers to be fully prepared and adhere to strict Leave No Trace principles. For Washington locals eager to experience the majestic beauty of the Olympics in a genuine, unadulterated setting, this campground offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level, surrounded by pristine landscapes and breathtaking natural wonders.

The primary access point for Sunnybrook Meadows is via the Dosewallips River/Abandoned National Park Road trailhead. The initial portion of the hike involves an "easy gradual uphill" walk on a decades-old closed, washed-out road, extending approximately 5.5 miles past the unoccupied Dose Ranger Station. After this segment, the trail to Sunnybrook Meadows and Constance Pass branches off. This latter section is described as "all uphill" from approximately 1,736 feet to 5,500 feet in about 2.5 miles, indicating a steep and demanding climb. The entire round trip to Sunnybrook Meadows and potentially Constance Pass can involve mileage of 26.0 miles with an elevation gain of 5,500 feet and a high point of 6,500 feet. While the trail conditions are generally reported to be good, and the road suitable for all vehicles to the trailhead, hikers should be prepared for varying terrain and potential soggy conditions in the meadows through June. Due to its location within Olympic National Park wilderness, an overnight wilderness permit is required, and these must often be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov. It is crucial to check current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and park alerts, including any fire restrictions or bear activity, before embarking on this journey.

• Designated Campsites: Sunnybrook Meadows offers established, individual campsites within the subalpine meadow. Campers are required to use these designated sites to minimize environmental impact on the fragile ecosystem.

• Access to Natural Water Sources: Water is available from "the brook" at Sunnybrook Meadows and other natural sources along the trail. All water from natural sources must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption to ensure safety and prevent waterborne illnesses.

• No Potable Water: There are no developed potable water spigots at Sunnybrook Meadows. Campers must carry a water filter or other purification methods.

• No Toilets: Sunnybrook Meadows does not have vault toilets or privies. Campers must be prepared to dig an 8-inch deep cat hole at least 70 steps (200 feet) away from water, trails, and campsites, and pack out all toilet paper. Some nearby camps in the Dosewallips area may have privies (e.g., Dose Forks, Camp Siberia, Dose Meadows), but Sunnybrook Meadows itself does not.

• Bear Canister Required: Bear canisters are mandatory for food storage at Sunnybrook Meadows. There are no bear wires provided. This is a critical safety measure to protect both human visitors and wildlife.

• No Campfires Allowed: Campfires are generally prohibited at Sunnybrook Meadows, especially in this sensitive subalpine environment. Campers should plan to use a camp stove for cooking. This policy helps prevent wildfires and protects the high-alpine ecosystem.

• Permit Required: An overnight wilderness permit is mandatory for camping at Sunnybrook Meadows, obtained through Olympic National Park's wilderness permit system, often requiring advance reservations during the operating season (June 15 - October 15).

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: As with all wilderness campsites in Olympic National Park, campers are required to pack out all garbage and waste, leaving no trace of their visit.

• Stunning Subalpine Meadows: The namesake feature, Sunnybrook Meadows, is known for its beautiful and often flowering subalpine meadows, providing expansive open spaces amidst the mountain landscape. This is especially vibrant during peak bloom (late July/early August).

• Access to Constance Pass & Home Lake: Sunnybrook Meadows serves as a key access point for further exploration to Constance Pass, offering incredible panoramic views, and the pleasant Home Lake, providing additional hiking and scenic opportunities.

• Dramatic Scenery Changes: The hike to Sunnybrook Meadows is a highlight itself, with a gradual transition from the historic road walk through forest to the steeper ascent into the breathtaking mountain and meadow terrain.

• Views of Major Peaks: On clear days, the meadows offer views towards prominent Olympic peaks like Anderson and potentially the Brothers, providing a spectacular backdrop for your camping experience.

• Sense of Accomplishment: Due to the challenging nature of the hike (26 miles round trip, 5,500 ft elevation gain), reaching Sunnybrook Meadows provides a profound sense of achievement and rewards hikers with truly earned views.

• True Wilderness Immersion: With no fires allowed, no developed toilets, and mandatory bear canisters, the campsite strongly encourages a deep immersion in Leave No Trace principles and a genuine backcountry experience.

• Relatively Low Bug Activity (July): While conditions can vary, some reports indicate that bug activity (e.g., mosquitoes) may not be too bad in late July, making for a more comfortable experience during that period.

As Sunnybrook Meadows is a backcountry wilderness campsite located within Olympic National Park, there is no direct address or phone number for the campground itself. All essential information, including permit requirements, trail conditions, and safety guidelines, is managed by Olympic National Park.

Address: Washington, USA (Located within Olympic National Park, Dosewallips region, accessible via backcountry trails from the Dosewallips River/Abandoned National Park Road trailhead.)

Olympic National Park Wilderness Information Center: For the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding wilderness permits for Sunnybrook Meadows (required for overnight stays), current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and essential safety regulations (including bear canister requirements and fire restrictions), please contact the Olympic National Park Wilderness Information Center. Their contact information, including phone numbers and online resources for planning your trip and securing permits, can be found on the official National Park Service website for Olympic National Park. It is highly recommended to secure your wilderness permit in advance, especially during the peak season from June to October.

The unique blend of a historic road walk and a steep ascent into vibrant meadows, culminating in panoramic views of major Olympic peaks, provides a diverse and engaging hiking experience. Locals will appreciate the emphasis on Leave No Trace principles, including mandatory bear canisters and no campfires, which ensures the preservation of this pristine environment for future generations. This commitment to conservation aligns with the values of many Washington outdoor enthusiasts.

Furthermore, Sunnybrook Meadows serves as an excellent basecamp for further exploration, allowing multi-day trips to include spectacular side adventures to Constance Pass and Home Lake. This versatility makes it ideal for those seeking a deep immersion in the wilderness. For Washingtonians looking to truly challenge themselves and be rewarded with a profound sense of accomplishment and unforgettable natural beauty, Sunnybrook Meadows is an essential and deeply enriching backcountry destination.

Sunnybrook Meadows

Washington, USA