A Guide to Visiting the Rainforests in Washington State

Washington State’s rainforests are some of the coolest places to visit in the Pacific Northwest. While most people associate rainforests with the tropics, Washington’s rainforests shouldn’t be overlooked. They offer a lush, green environment across seasons, especially the winter months. The rainy weather can bring pros and cons for your travels, so continue reading below for tips and tricks from a local. This blog post will explore what to expect when visiting the rainforests throughout the year, their driving distance from Seattle, camping options, hiking trails, and a glimpse into the historical significance of these ancient ecosystems.

The Rainforests of Washington State

I was shocked during my first few visits to Olympic National Park. The greenery in these ares is unlike anything I had ever seen before. Everywhere you look you’ll see moss, slugs, and often views of the Pacific Ocean. These are all things that you might be able to find in other areas of the world, but the dense forest in Washington is unique due to its difficulty to access. The drive from Seattle makes it challenging for tourists to visit, unless they dedicate a few days to the journey. Which, I must say, I highly recommend doing.

There are two main rainforests in Washington: the Hoh Rainforest and the Quinault Rainforest. These are both part of Olympic National Park. Washington’s rainforests are home to old-growth trees such as Sitka spruce and western hemlock, and a thick blanket of ferns, mosses, and lichens covers the forest floor.

The Hoh Rainforest

The Hoh Rainforest, nestled within Olympic National Park in Washington State, is a stunning example of a temperate rainforest, renowned for its lush greenery and towering trees. With an average annual rainfall of 140 inches (3,556 mm), the forest is perpetually damp, giving rise to a rich ecosystem of mosses, ferns, and old-growth trees such as Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and bigleaf maple. These trees, some reaching up to 300 feet tall, are draped in thick mosses, creating an ethereal, almost prehistoric landscape. The constant moisture in the air makes the forest feel vibrant and alive year-round, while the Hoh River, which flows through the forest from Mount Olympus, adds to its natural beauty and biodiversity.

Visitors to the Hoh Rainforest can explore a variety of hiking trails that offer immersive experiences of the forest’s enchanting surroundings. The popular Hall of Mosses Trail, a short 0.8-mile loop, showcases the forest’s lush canopy and the iconic moss-covered trees. The longer Hoh River Trail allows hikers to venture deeper into the wilderness, following the river toward the glacier-covered peaks of the Olympic Mountains. The Hoh Rainforest’s rich environment supports a wide array of wildlife, including Roosevelt elk, black bears, and diverse bird species, offering a unique glimpse into the natural splendor of Washington’s rainforests.

The Quinault Rainforest

The Quinault Rainforest, located in the southwestern section of Olympic National Park and surrounding the serene Lake Quinault, is another gem of Washington State’s temperate rainforests. Like the Hoh, the Quinault Rainforest receives significant rainfall, averaging around 140 inches (3,556 mm) per year. The forest is home to ancient stands of towering Douglas fir, western red cedar, and Sitka spruce, some of which are among the largest trees in the world. This rainforest also boasts the “Valley of the Rainforest Giants,” where visitors can see some of the tallest and oldest trees in the Pacific Northwest, including the world’s largest Sitka spruce. The moss-covered trees, dense ferns, and undergrowth create a thriving and vibrant environment teeming with life.

Exploring the Quinault Rainforest offers a wide range of activities, from scenic drives around Lake Quinault to hiking trails that wind through the lush, mossy forest. The Quinault Loop Trail provides easy access to the rainforest’s beauty, while the Big Tree Trail leads visitors to the massive Sitka spruce. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Lake Quinault Lodge, a historic lodge that offers a relaxing stay surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The Quinault Rainforest is known not only for its towering trees but also for its diverse wildlife, including black bears, Roosevelt elk, and various bird species, making it an incredible destination for nature enthusiasts looking to experience the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Seasons in Washington’s Rainforests

• Spring (March-May): Spring brings life to the rainforest as the temperature begins to rise, averaging around 50-60°F. This is when you can witness the forest awakening with blooming wildflowers and budding trees. It’s a great time for hiking, as streams are full from melted snow and fresh rains, but the paths aren’t as crowded as during the summer.
• Summer (June-August): Summer is the most popular time to visit the rainforests. Temperatures reach a pleasant 65-75°F, making it perfect for exploring the trails without the risk of heavy rain. However, summer also brings more visitors, so expect the campgrounds and trails to be busier. Early morning hikes offer a serene experience with fewer people.
• Fall (September-November): Autumn is a magical time in the rainforests, with cooler temperatures (50-60°F) and vibrant foliage. The mix of orange, red, and yellow leaves contrasts beautifully against the deep greens of the moss and ferns. This season also brings more rain, but fewer visitors, allowing for a peaceful exploration of the trails.
• Winter (December-February): The rainforests take on an enchanting, misty atmosphere during the winter months. While temperatures range from 40-50°F, the rain is constant, and parts of the rainforest can receive up to 140 inches annually. The forest looks like a scene from a fairy tale, with mist rising from the forest floor and the sound of rainfall setting a tranquil tone. This is the quietest time of year, perfect for solitude seekers.

Driving Distance from Seattle

The rainforests are about a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Seattle, depending on which part you visit. The Hoh Rainforest, located on the western side of Olympic National Park, is the most popular, and Quinault Rainforest is just a bit farther south. Both are accessible by car, though the drive requires a trip around the Olympic Peninsula, so be prepared for a scenic road journey.

Camping in the Rainforest

Olympic National Park is one of my favorite areas of camp in Washington. The forests are dense, making it feel dark and moody all day long. You’re also surrounded by ferns, large old growth trees, and many streams in these forests.

• Hoh Campground: Located near the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center, this campground has 72 sites, and reservations are recommended during the busy summer months.
• Quinault River Campground: A smaller, quieter option located in the Quinault area, ideal for those wanting a more secluded experience.
• Kalaloch Campground: Situated along the Pacific Coast, this campground gives you the best of both worlds, with easy access to both the rainforest and the beach.

Keep in mind that weather in the rainforest can be unpredictable, especially in the fall and winter, so bring adequate rain gear and waterproof tents.

Hiking in the Rainforest

There are numerous hiking trails in both the Hoh and Quinault rainforests, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes:

• Hall of Mosses Trail (Hoh Rainforest): A short 0.8-mile loop that takes you through some of the most iconic scenery in the Hoh, with dense, moss-covered trees.
• Spruce Nature Trail (Hoh Rainforest): This 1.2-mile loop trail is slightly longer but just as easy, taking you through a riverside forest.
• Quinault Loop Trail: A moderate 3.8-mile hike that offers beautiful views of the Quinault Rainforest, including waterfalls and river crossings.
• Enchanted Valley Trail: For the adventurous, this 13-mile one-way trail takes you deep into the Quinault Rainforest, where you can camp overnight and experience the isolation and beauty of the valley, often referred to as the “Valley of 10,000 Waterfalls.”

Don’t forget to check out my post on backpacking the North Coast Trail. It’s located near the rain forests and worth a visit!

History of the Rainforests and Nearby Tribes

The rainforests of Washington are not just ecologically significant; they hold a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The land is part of the traditional territory of several Indigenous tribes, including the Quileute, Quinault, and Hoh tribes. These tribes have lived in harmony with the forests, rivers, and coastline, relying on the land for sustenance and cultural practices.

The Quinault Tribe, for example, has long been stewards of the Quinault Rainforest and the surrounding areas. They’ve historically relied on the abundance of fish, game, and plant life found in the rainforests and nearby rivers, while their cultural traditions are deeply intertwined with the natural landscape. Today, many of these tribes are involved in efforts to preserve and protect the rainforests, while also offering educational programs for visitors interested in learning about their history and culture.

Conclusion

Washington State’s rainforests offer a diverse experience for visitors in every season. Whether you’re hiking the moss-laden trails, camping under ancient trees, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the area, the rainforests are an unforgettable destination. Take your time to appreciate not only the stunning scenery but also the history and significance of these lands to the Indigenous tribes who have called them home for millennia. Whether you’re visiting for a day or camping for a week, these rainforests will leave you with memories of Washington’s incredible natural beauty.