Hoh River Trail to Five Mile Island

This is the classic Hoh Rain Forest day hike: a long, gentle out-and-back through dripping moss, giant spruce, and steady river views. Plan on about 10.6 miles round trip with roughly 200–300 feet of easy gain. The tread is natural dirt with roots and wet patches, plus a few short boardwalks near the start. It begins at the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center and follows the river upstream to Five Mile Island—a favorite lunch or camp spot perched above the braids of the Hoh.

What you’ll see: old-growth Sitka spruce and bigleaf maple draped in moss, ferny understory, and frequent glimpses of the glacier-fed Hoh River. Along the way, look for waypoints like First River Access, Mineral Creek Falls, and Cedar Grove. Keep an eye out for Roosevelt elk and, occasionally, black bears. Five Mile Island itself offers open riverbank views—including toward Bogachiel Peak—perfect for a long break in the sun when it appears. A fun tidbit: this trail corridor is home to the famously dubbed “quietest square inch” in the U.S., so give yourself a few moments to simply listen.

Is it worth it? Yes—especially if you want more than the short Hall of Mosses or Spruce Nature Trail loops without committing to a steep climb. It’s long but flat, with good tread and big scenery the whole way. If you’re feeling strong, continue beyond Five Mile Island toward Olympus Guard Station; backpackers use this corridor to reach Glacier Meadows and even Mount Olympus. For day hikers, Five Mile Island is the clean turnaround.

Tips: Waterproof footwear is smart, and sandals can help with minor stream crossings in spring. Pack layers—the rainforest stays cool and damp even in summer. If you plan to camp, backcountry permits are required; Five Mile Island has designated sites, toilets, and allows fires. Wildlife etiquette matters here—make noise, store food properly, and carry bear spray if you have it. Expect about 10–11 miles total, depending on exact turnaround.

Best time to hike: Spring through fall delivers the greenest canopy, friendlier water levels, and milder weather; summer has the warmest temps and the most people. Winter can be wonderfully quiet but also wetter, muddier, and cooler. Aim for early mornings or weekdays for a calmer experience. Always check official park updates for current conditions and any access changes.