Hoh Rain Forest
Hoh Rain Forest
4.5
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The Olympic Coast national park.
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13 within 3 miles
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11 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,512 reviews
Excellent
1,083
Very good
301
Average
102
Poor
15
Terrible
12
nolamoca
Portland, OR4 contributions
Jul 2021 • Friends
Worth doing if you go early! if you are going to Hoh be there by 9 am at the latest. We got right in and it was totally worth it — even after the heat waves — enjoyed both the moss and spruce hikes. Don’t miss the visitor center. $30 entrance fee gets you into any national park for 5 days. When we left the forest at 11:30 am and 75 cars were waiting and another 20 arriving!
Pro tip #2: there is a coffee shop in the Forks Thriftway that opens at 6 am and they have OK breakfast sandwiches. There is also a drive through coffee place there. A neighborhood grocery store just re-opened vat the entrance to Julie’s neighborhood (there is a post office there too) but they were not yet outfitted with drip coffee and all the accoutrements, but said they will be doing so.
Pro tip #3: Drive the speed limit on Hwy 101. We witnessed a tragic fatal accident much further south that day :(. Someone had a medical event and went off the road, killing a 10 year old Native American girl who was there in a turnout with her sister and Dad. 101 appears to be dangerous all around the west coast, so consider taking your time and going slowly to see the sights and be safe. You just never know, be careful out there ❤️
Pro tip #2: there is a coffee shop in the Forks Thriftway that opens at 6 am and they have OK breakfast sandwiches. There is also a drive through coffee place there. A neighborhood grocery store just re-opened vat the entrance to Julie’s neighborhood (there is a post office there too) but they were not yet outfitted with drip coffee and all the accoutrements, but said they will be doing so.
Pro tip #3: Drive the speed limit on Hwy 101. We witnessed a tragic fatal accident much further south that day :(. Someone had a medical event and went off the road, killing a 10 year old Native American girl who was there in a turnout with her sister and Dad. 101 appears to be dangerous all around the west coast, so consider taking your time and going slowly to see the sights and be safe. You just never know, be careful out there ❤️
Written July 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
jkweebs
Omaha, NE538 contributions
Jun 2021
This is something you just have to see. You would not expect this in the Northern United States. The trails are easy to walk and anyone could do them. The different things you can see and the way the trees grow with all the moss and ferns is amazing. If I can make one recommendation go very early. This is a one road in one road out place with very limited parking. We went early and spend the entire morning walking around. We saw some elk and even found a couple different slugs. But if you don't go early you could be waiting in line for hours because as a certain point they will only let a car in if a car comes out. Don't miss it but go early.
Written July 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kristi B
109 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
We tried to go to Hurricane ridge first but the road was closed so we drove to the Hoh rainforest & did our itinerary backwards. It took about 2 hours to get there from hurricane ridge. There were at least 3 spots where the road was closed & each direction had to take turns. The road to Hoh is 1 lane each way & a car flipped over on our way out. I was surprised how many deer we saw on the roads. Plan more time for the roadwork! There are a few gas stations (unlike a lot of national parks) before you start down the main road to get there. We got there around 8:00 am. There were already quite a few people/cars but people were doing various hikes so it was not crowded. We walked through the hall of mosses and did the spruce trail. It was beautiful with easy, clear paths to walk. Photos don’t do this place justice - such a cool experience! It was cold in the morning and I recommend wearing layers. The visitor center is very small but there are bathrooms.
Written August 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Marie W
Bakersfield, CA3 contributions
Aug 2022 • Solo
Although I would recommend coming to the rainforest, the wait outside the park was really long! When I got there I spent about an hour walking along some of the trails and then left. Unless you’re going to go for long hikes within the forest, it’s really not worth the long line. It’s just OK.
Written August 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
NaperNewsie
Chicago, IL26 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
This was the most interesting part of the park. Was it worth traveling 2,000+ miles to see during a week of endless rain? Debatable. Olympic National Park is not easy to get around. So you are forced to literally go to one site a day due to the lack of connecting roads. Major areas of the park are not upgraded and offer little interpretive information compared to other Canadian and US properties. Antiquated is not the right word—beat up, sparse and lacking investment are the best words to describe Olympic. There are so many sites that are more accessible and offer more bang for your buck in North America. Really look at other park options before making the trek out to the West Coast.
Written June 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
tumbleweedchris
Richland, WA840 contributions
May 2022
Hoh Rainforest is one of the longest detours from route 101 in the national park, but is well worth it. I got there early in the morning, so parking was not an issue, but it appears parking can be a nightmare during busy times. I'd suggest shooting for an early arrival. I did the Hall of Mosses and Spruce Nature Trails on my visit. The Hall of Mosses is a hike through some of the older growth forest. I saw some elk near the path during the early hours. The Spruce Nature Trail is definitely worth doing as well and shows folks some of the newer growth by the river. This was my second favorite area of the park behind Rialto Beach and should be on any Olympic itinerary. You don't have to stay too long as you can get those two hikes done in a pretty short amount of time. There are some longer hikes, but I didn't have the time to venture out.
Written June 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
redhead_roaming
Seattle, WA2,486 contributions
Sep 2019
I had read so much about the Hall of Mosses that I think I had hyped it up a little too much in my head. Don't get me wrong - it was gorgeous! - but there were A LOT of people and it's fairly short and there were only a few spots that were actually really magical.
When you walk from the parking lot, there's an obvious sign that points towards the trails, all of which kinda start from this main trail. Part way down, Hall of Mosses goes to the left and Hoh River Trail (the other trail we did) was straight on. We chose to do Hoh River Trail based upon the extremely helpful person in the Visitor Center. You would tell them your fitness level (if you wanted) and/or how much time you had and they could recommend a trail for you. Based upon how much time we had, we were recommended to go on part of the Hoh River Trail, as far as the waterfall, and turn around. The elevation gain was minimal so we had a nice easy walk and really enjoyed the scenery. There's a stretch where you can walk right next to the river and if the clouds agree, get a peak of some fantastic mountains (when my husband saw those, he said it made his heart happy and it completed his weekend). On the way back, it started misting so it might be smart to check with the visitor's center for incoming weather (as our weather apps totally missed it).
Hoh Rain Forest is not dog friendly as a heads up!
When you walk from the parking lot, there's an obvious sign that points towards the trails, all of which kinda start from this main trail. Part way down, Hall of Mosses goes to the left and Hoh River Trail (the other trail we did) was straight on. We chose to do Hoh River Trail based upon the extremely helpful person in the Visitor Center. You would tell them your fitness level (if you wanted) and/or how much time you had and they could recommend a trail for you. Based upon how much time we had, we were recommended to go on part of the Hoh River Trail, as far as the waterfall, and turn around. The elevation gain was minimal so we had a nice easy walk and really enjoyed the scenery. There's a stretch where you can walk right next to the river and if the clouds agree, get a peak of some fantastic mountains (when my husband saw those, he said it made his heart happy and it completed his weekend). On the way back, it started misting so it might be smart to check with the visitor's center for incoming weather (as our weather apps totally missed it).
Hoh Rain Forest is not dog friendly as a heads up!
Written January 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Robert S
Chaska, MN342 contributions
Sep 2021
We did the Hall of Mosses Nature Trail 0.8 mile loop. It was a very easy and very beautiful hike. We were there in late September in a drought year and it was still fantastically beautiful. You can imagine in a forest with everything covered with moss. Check out the attached photo.
Written October 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kathleen C
Ventura, CA89 contributions
Jul 2022
We had a great experience hiking the Hoh river trail and the Hall of mosses loop. When we arrived at 9 the parking was nearly full and when we left in the early afternoon people were lined up for a 2+ hour wait. As beautiful as it is, if you cannot get there before 10am, I would suggest going to the quinault rainforest instead, another beautiful temperate rainforest on the Olympic peninsula with cool nature trails but no lines and no crowds.
Written August 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Janelle D
Kansas City, MO64 contributions
Aug 2020 • Friends
We loved walking through the Hall of Mosses. Beautiful drive getting to the parking area and only a short walk to the trails which are to the right of the visitors center, which isn’t open due to Covid. Restrooms are open. There were a lot of people, but most wore masks and gave each other space on the one way trails. Only the Olympic National Park $30 entrance fee. If you’re going to Mt. Ranier National Park also, you may want to get the $80 pass that gets you and anyone with you in for free at any national park nationwide for a year from your purchase date.
Written August 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Melissa E
Eagle Mountain, UT6 contributions
Is the Hoh rainforest bright green all year round (August)? Or does it just look that way in June.
Dixie P
Provo, UT30 contributions
How should I dress for the forest? Shorts or long pants? We plan on being there .I'd afternoon. Will the bugs bite?
Julian C
Kent, WA7 contributions
Sorry about the delay, I just received this. The weather varies Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter. It is a rain forest. Expect rain. Often it’s a lite mist. There are weather storms that can in from time to time. However, the news will update you with a 10 day forecast. Durning severe storms wind can be a factor. Spring, Summer, or Fall younger people enjoy shorts & hiking shoes. Most people in Washington like to layer. Zip off pants give you the travel advantage. Short & pants. A hooded light rain jacket. I’ve seen other with blue jeans. However, summer heat make that uncomfortable. People will dress differently. I wouldn’t be too concerned. You will enjoy.
Morgan K
Seattle, WA
Hi, I'm planning on camping at the Hoh rainforest around the end of July/beginning of August. I know that's peak season and all the campsites are first-come, first-serve. Would I have the best chance of snagging a campsite on a Sunday afternoon or Monday afternoon? Thanks!
Sagg Traveler
7 contributions
When does the Hoh Rain Forest start to get crowded? I went for the first time a few years ago in mid-April and hardly anyone was there. It was divine. I am wondering if the beginning of May would be a similar experience, or if people start to arrive in spring.
Radhakrishnan R
Kirkland, Washington, United States215 contributions
I am not sure. Normally the summer period in these parts attract visitors. Probably the month of May may be better than June to August.
ADieselWorkLemon
Fort Lauderdale, FL42 contributions
Hey guys we gonna be hiking this winter on Hoh rainforest trail and try to reach the view of Blue Glacier...
Please if anyone have done this on winter time tell me what I should know
Thanks
D L
Casa Grande, AZ293 contributions
Sorry, but we just did the Hoh rain forest trail...0.8 miles. That said , so many trails, this NP is really one of the best for hikers and campers. Be ready for rain, and snow higher elevations.
Roop
Coral Springs, FL4 contributions
This question is for the photog. Lovers! 📸 ❤️
I have a Canon Rebel xti.
I’m going to Olympia National State Park ( HoH Rainforest)and San Juan Islands to go whale watching.
I’m looking to purchase 1 additional lense that can take really good nature photos for up close and distance.
I’ve had my eye on Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS II Telephoto Zoom Lens
I want to be able to take close ups and also really great landscape photos
Any recommendations?
Roop
Coral Springs, FL4 contributions
This question is for the camera junkies. Any recommendations on which camera lens would be best for taking photos at Olympia national state park, Ruby beach, HOH rain forest, and whale watching? I have a Canon rebel and would like to get one lens that can do it all. Hoping to pack light during the hikes.
Roop
Coral Springs, FL4 contributions
Hello everyone!
I’m planning a road trip to Portland Oregon and Washington around labors day.
If anyone has any advise or is familiar with this route please free to drop a comment.
We will be flying into PDX and flying out of Seattle Washington. We have about 7 days to road trip through the two states.
Here’s the itinerary and what I have planned so far -
stephanie roopsingh travel itinerary.
VIEW IN GOOGLE TRIPS
Friday, 30 Aug
flying to Portland (PDX)
Arrival 11:30p
Saturday , 31 August - Portland, Oregon
- day - sat ( full day)
- Sunday morning
Things to do:
Portland ( the city) +Monmouth falls
- Sunday afternoon - 1pm -Head to Forks Washington ( approx 4hour drive)
Sunday, Sept 1
Arrive at forks -
- arrival 5pm
Things to do: Ruby beach
Monday, 2 Sep
HoH rainforest
(Monday evening after rainforest
Drive to Sequim - check into hotel ( approx 1 hour drive)
Tuesday, 3 sep
Hot springs, Olympic National part - Dul Soc
Wednesday , 4 Sep- check out early
Sept 4th- Leave Port Angeles Depart to port Townsend ferry to coupville, drive 48 mins -1hour to Anacortes to Friday harbor ( San Juan island) whale/ orca watching excursion -4:30p Wednesday stay at Friday harbor - check out Thursday
Thursday -Sept 5th
Friday harbor to ana Cortes - Washington state ferry to Seattle
Friday -Sept 6th
Explore Seattle
Any insight on this trip would def help!
Thanks in advance!!
Wuckers
Midland, MI227 contributions
Doubling back from Sequin to Sol Duc will take time. Consider doing Sol Duc on your way to Sequim. Consider Cresent Lake as well- right on 101 near Sol Duc. It's more than an hour from Forks Sequim- much more if the construction by Crescent Lake holds you up much. On your way to Forks stop at Kalaloch campground, see the beach and the Tree of Life. My family just did a loop from Seattle to Port Angeles to Forks, tacoma and back to Seattle. I would avoid Portland like the plague- just not a good place to visit these days. Get over to Astoria and the coast rather than Portland.
Michelleslc
Salt Lake City, UT1 contribution
What is the best time of year to visit?
Ngoc T
Redmond, WA23 contributions
It's gorgeous all year round. But it is my preference to go there when it's raining and definitely the most beautiful time is Fall. Pray for rain during Autumn and it's like heaven on earth.
Hoh Rain Forest (Olympic National Park) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Hoh Rain Forest
- We recommend booking Hoh Rain Forest tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 6 Hoh Rain Forest tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Hoh Rain Forest:
- Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach Guided Tour in Olympic National Park (From $140.00)
- Olympic Mountains Seaplane Tour from Lake Washington (From $928.21)
- Olympic National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour (From $11.99)
- Full-Day Private Tour and Hike in Olympic National Park (West Peninsula) (From $919.94)
- 5 Day Olympic Backpacking - Hoh Rainforest and the Blue Glacier (From $1,595.00)
- Hotels near Hoh Rain Forest:
- (0.08 mi) Olympic Suites Inn
- (0.28 mi) Sol Duc Riverside Cottages - A River Runs Through It
- (0.82 mi) The Pacific Inn Motel
- (0.84 mi) Miller Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast
- (0.47 mi) Huckleberry Lodge Cabins
- Restaurants near Hoh Rain Forest:
- (0.19 mi) Subway
- (0.44 mi) Sully's Drive-In
- (0.42 mi) D&k Bbq
- (1.23 mi) Forks Outfitters Thriftway Food Store
- (0.76 mi) Mocha Motion
- Attractions near Hoh Rain Forest:
- (0.44 mi) Kalaloch Ranger Station
- (0.62 mi) Twilight Tours in Forks
- (0.58 mi) John's Beachcombing Museum
- (0.53 mi) South North Gardens
- (0.64 mi) Springer's Sport Fishing