Hoh Lake Trail

Why hike it

If you want the full Olympic experience in one push—moss-draped rainforest, a lung-busting climb, and a quiet alpine lake—this is your trail. It’s strenuous and long, but the payoff is solitude at Hoh Lake and easy access to the celebrated High Divide, with sweeping looks toward Mount Olympus and Bogachiel Peak.

Route and distance

Most hikers start at the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center and follow the Hoh River Trail up-valley before turning onto the Hoh Lake Trail. It’s about 12.4 miles from the visitor center to the Hoh Lake junction, then roughly 2.7 miles of steep switchbacks to the lake. Total: about 15.1 miles one way, or 30.2 miles round-trip (via Hoh River Trail + Hoh Lake Trail). Expect a relentless ascent on the final spur—park info pegs it at 21 switchbacks and roughly 3,700–4,000 feet of climbing from river to the High Divide area.

What you’ll see

You’ll start in classic temperate rainforest—giant trees, dripping moss, and a roaring, ever-changing river corridor with braided channels and occasional waterfalls. As you climb, the forest thins into subalpine meadows with summer wildflowers, marmots, and big views. Hoh Lake itself is small, clear, and calm—an underrated, quiet corner compared to busier High Divide spots.

Difficulty and who it’s for

This is a hard, long backcountry outing. Strong day hikers can attempt it, but most will be happier as a 2–3 day backpack. If you want more payoff per mile with similar scenery, consider planning a High Divide loop—busier, but more views for the effort.

Season and conditions

Best time: late July through September. Snow can linger on the upper trail and around the lake well into early summer; early season travel may require traction/ice axe and solid navigation. This valley is famous for rain—pack waterproof layers year-round. Recent reports also note dynamic conditions along the Hoh River (washouts, downed trees, changing channels).

Current caveats

Lower Hoh River Trail sections around mile 8–8.5 have seen serious washouts in recent seasons, with flagged reroutes and knee-deep fords. As of April 2025, some sources list this route as closed—always confirm current status and advisories with the park before you go.

Permits, regs, and logistics

Overnight trips require an Olympic National Park wilderness camping permit, and bear canisters are required for food storage. No dogs are allowed on this route. Start early—parking at the visitor center can back up on summer days. Trekking poles help on the steep, rooty switchbacks and river detours. Download offline maps for the washout zones and the steep spur.