Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center — Attraction in Forks

A couple things to consider…

Traffic WILL be backed up even if maps does not show it. There is a ranger station 5 miles before the visitor center. They stop you there and only allow so many cars through before it’s one in and one out. There are signs along the road prior to the ranger station that will say “expect delays” and “expect a 2 hour wait”. Those times are incredibly accurate from that point (they were for us at approx 2:45pm today). We finally arrived to the visitor center about 4:30pm. Plan to go VERY early if you can. We had small kids so it wasn’t so easy.

The staff in the visitor center were so friendly. There was a gentleman out front showing skulls and pelts. Very educational. Restrooms definitely needed attention as this was at the end of the day. The visitor center closes at 5, but people were still inside at 5:30.

Don’t forget your passport books to collect your stamps! They had the cutest stamp up here of a slug. After waiting so long in the car, we didn’t feel like doing any more hikes outside of the Hall of Mosses trail. Grab the Junior Ranger books for the kids as well!

Hall of Mosses is a must do. Most bang for your buck—according to the ranger. It reminded me of an enchanted forests with towering trees covered in moss. Lots of photo opportunities. My kids loved seeing the huge trees.

It’s a nice place to visit. If traffic remains the same, I wouldn’t go back. The drive is very pretty. Bumpy curvy road. Slow traffic doesn’t adhere to the sinks that say to pull over, so bring your patience.

**there is a restroom near the ranger station and some portable toilets about...

The Hoh Rainforest is truly one of the most magical places in the Pacific Northwest. Walking through it feels like stepping into another world—towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees draped in thick green moss, carpets of ferns, and the quiet hush of a living, breathing ecosystem. The Hall of Mosses Trail is short but absolutely stunning, with its ancient trees and whimsical atmosphere, while the Spruce Nature Trail offers a slightly longer loop with great views of both forest and river. Even on a rainy day, the mist and moisture only enhance the beauty—it feels otherworldly. Get there early in the morning to avoid long entrance lines and parking issues, especially in summer. Bring a rain jacket and waterproof shoes—you’re in a rainforest after all! Allow yourself at least a few...

The Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park is an absolutely magical place that feels like stepping into another world. Towering moss-covered trees, lush ferns, and the soft sound of the Hoh River create an atmosphere that’s both peaceful and awe-inspiring. The Hall of Mosses trail is a must-do — it’s short, easy, and packed with jaw-dropping views at every turn. Even on a rainy day (which is common here), the mist only adds to the enchantment. Wildlife spotting is a bonus; we saw deer grazing quietly near the visitor center. Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or simply a nature lover, this is one of those rare places that truly lives up to the hype. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and plenty of time to just slow down and...