Hoh Rain Forest
4.7(3.5K)google
4.6(174)yelp
HikingNatureOutdoorHealing
Overview
Universal celebrated as one of the single most spectacular, pristine, and visually stunning examples of a temperate rain forest in the world, the Hoh Rain Forest is a magical jewel of Olympic National Park. Fed continuously by extraordinary annual rainfall, this lush sanctuary is blanketed in a dense, vibrant canopy of massive Sitka spruce and Western hemlock trees. The famous Hall of Mosses trail wraps visitors in a dreamlike green world where ancient, towering branches are completely draped in thick curtains of glowing club moss, creating an unforgettable sensory experience.
Practical Info
Best TimeA stunning World Heritage site year-round, but early mornings from 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM are legendary. Dawn mist routine clings to the ancient, moss-draped Sitka spruces in the Hall of Mosses trail, producing a prehistoric, Jurassic-like atmosphere. Arriving early is also critical to bypass the notorious summer multi-hour traffic queues at the gate.
Getting ThereDeep within the western wilderness valleys of Olympic National Park at 18113 Upper Hoh Rd. Drive south from Forks on US-101 S for 13 miles, make a left turn eastbound onto Upper Hoh Road, and follow the river road straight for 19 miles into the dense rainforest to arrive at the visitor center parking loops.
Travel Tips
- The entrance gate experiences severe gridlock from 9 AM to 4 PM in summer, causing 2-3 hour wait times; arrive before 8 AM or after 5 PM to bypass the massive vehicle queue.
- With over 140 inches of annual precipitation, heavy downpours are frequent even during summer; heavy-duty waterproof outerwear, gore-tex boots, and electronics protection are vital.
- Stepping off paths into delicate moss beds is strictly prohibited; maintain a safe buffer of at least 25 yards from native Roosevelt Elk, as they can become highly aggressive.
Reviews
Positive
- The moss-draped centuries-old giants and dense temperate rainforest canopy are stunning; the Hall of Mosses' pristine serenity cleanses the soul—truly authentic.
- Belonging to Olympic National Park, a single ticket lasts seven days and offers great value, packed with world-class rainforest creek hikes and exceptional fun.
- The park rangers are highly dedicated, restrooms are clean, and the accessible loop paths are so flat that strollers and wheelchairs can easily pierce the rainforest's heart.
- The air carries extremely high negative oxygen ions and ecosystem preservation is flawless; strolling lets you meet massive Roosevelt elk safely under mature management.
Heads up
- Due to its immense fame, summer peak cars back up for miles at the gate, often requiring a two to three-hour wait in place under crowd caps—very hard to access.
- The location is extremely remote on the westernmost edge of the Olympic Peninsula without major towns; driving one-way takes three to four hours, making transit poor.
- With nationwide famous annual rainfall, it pours most of the time; dirt trails become incredibly muddy and slick, and the lack of rain shelters makes walking grueling.
- Aside from basic water at the visitor center, the interior lacks any food outlets; forgetting to bring your own snacks leaves you starving in damp, cold woods.