Posted by Richard | The Hunter Gatherer Society
Category: Foraging, Camping, Adventures
The Call of the Trail
There’s something deeply grounding about backpacking and foraging in Washington. Recently, my wife Rebecca, our dog Dozer, and I packed up and headed into the Olympic wilderness for a multi-day adventure on the Dosewallips River Trail near Brinnon.
This trip was more than just a hike—it was a test of our gear, a chance to forage wild foods, and an opportunity to reconnect with nature. It was exactly the kind of experience that defines what The Hunter Gatherer Society is all about.
Setting Up Camp Along the River
We started our journey with a 3-mile hike in, carrying more gear than necessary on purpose—testing filters, hammocks, and a few new meal options. The Dosewallips River kept us company the whole way, its sound guiding us deeper into the woods.
Dozer led the charge, full of energy, while Rebecca and I found rhythm with every step. When we found a flat, shaded site right on the riverbank, we knew we’d found our home base. There’s no better way to begin a weekend of backpacking and foraging in Washington than with your tent pitched beside a glacial-fed river.
Hiking to the Falls and Foraging Thimbleberries
With camp secured, we ventured out on a 6.5-mile round-trip day hike toward a waterfall farther up the Dosewallips trail. The elevation gain—about 900 feet—shifted the terrain and views in beautiful ways.
Along the trail, we hit a wild edible jackpot: thimbleberries. Their bright red clusters were perfectly ripe, and we snacked as we climbed. Foraging along Washington trails always adds something special to the journey—and this was no exception.
When we reached the waterfall, cool mist hung in the air and the roar echoed through the trees. It was one of those moments that makes the climb worth it.
Cold Feet, Fresh Water, and a Happy Dog
Back at camp, I kicked off my boots and stepped into the icy current of the Dosewallips River. My sore feet welcomed the cold. Dozer danced beside me, eager to play. I grabbed a stick and tossed it downstream—he charged after it again and again, as happy as I’ve ever seen him.
These small, wild moments are why backpacking and foraging in Washington has become a core part of our lifestyle.
Camp Life: Filtering, Hammocks, and UNO by the River
We put Rebecca’s WaterDrop gravity filter to the test and were impressed with how efficiently it delivered fresh, cold water straight from the river. Dinner was a new experience too—Mountain House meals. Lightweight, easy, and surprisingly good after a long day of hiking.
Evenings were simple: hammock time by the water, laughter over rounds of UNO, and pure stillness under the trees. I ended the night in my day hammock with a cigar, letting the sounds of the forest soak into my bones.
What We Learned Backpacking and Foraging in Washington
This trip reminded us of why we do this—why we make time for the wild.
Here’s what stood out:
- Field-testing gear adds confidence for future trips
- Wild thimbleberries are pure gold
- Dozer never gets tired of fetch
- River water and hammocks are therapy
- Simplicity in camp makes space for presence
Whether you’re new to backpacking and foraging in Washington or a seasoned adventurer, the Dosewallips River Trail offers the perfect mix of challenge, beauty, and peace.
🎥 Watch the Video
👉 Watch our Dosewallips River Trail adventure on YouTube
Step Outside. Grow Within.
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