Olympic National Park, Washington
Hoh River Trail to Five Mile Island
A moss-draped valley walk in the Hoh Rain Forest. Mileage adds up on a gentle grade. Mud, river weather, and Roosevelt elk are part of the day.
Parking: The visitor center lot can fill on summer weekends. Morning is easier.
Permits: Day hike to Five Mile Island does not need a wilderness permit. Overnight camping does. Treat the numbers on this page as planning ranges rather than measurements, and check the park’s trail report before you commit.
Overview
The Hoh River Trail is how you go deeper than the short Hall of Mosses loop without committing to a backpack toward Glacier Meadows. Five Mile Island is a sandbar-and-forest camp area that works as a day-hike turnaround: far enough to feel the valley, close enough to return to the visitor center. The trail is roots, mud, and quiet river noise. Elevation gain is not the story. Wet feet and underestimating 10 miles of rainforest walking are the story. The Hoh Road is long, sometimes closed by trees or washouts, and worth checking the morning you drive.
Why Hike This Trail
- You want Olympic’s rainforest, not only the visitor-center loops.
- You prefer a valley walk to a steep alpine climb.
- You will pack rain gear even if the forecast looks kind.
Route Description
- Start at the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center. The Hall of Mosses is a separate short loop worth doing the same day if you have light left.
- Follow the Hoh River Trail west. Junctions to Mount Tom Creek and other spurs are signed; stay on the main river trail unless you intend a longer day.
- Five Mile Island is the turnaround used on this page. Look at the time, the sky, and your group’s feet before continuing toward Olympus-related camps.
- Return the same way. Mud is slower on the way out when you are tired.
What to Expect
- Rain. The Hoh is a rainforest.
- Elk. Give them a wide corridor; do not surround animals for photos.
- Limited cell service. The drive out is part of the day.
Best Time to Visit
June–September is the usual window for fewer road surprises, but rain is still normal. Shoulder seasons can be excellent and quieter. Winter storms close the road.
What to Bring
- Rain jacket and pants, not just a wind shirt.
- Gaiters if you have them. Mud is real.
- Extra socks.
- Food for a full half-day plus the drive.
See also the full-day packing guide and hiking checklist.
How to Prepare
- Check the Olympic road report. The Hoh Road is a single long access.
- Fuel in Forks or before. Services thin out.
Nearby Attractions
- Hall of Mosses and Spruce Nature Trail
- Ruby Beach on the coast the same trip
- Hurricane Ridge on a clearer-weather day (separate road)
Nearby Places to Stay
- Hoh Campground near the visitor center
- Forks
- Kalaloch area lodges on the coast
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Five Mile Island required?
No. Any turnaround on the Hoh River Trail is valid. The moss forest starts within the first miles.
Safety Notes
- Do not ford side channels in high water just to shortcut.
- Hang or canister food if you picnic near camps; follow current park food-storage rules.
- Hypothermia is possible in 50°F rain. Cotton is a poor choice.
Official Resource Links
Keep planning
Destination: Washington. Nearby drive: Pacific Coast Highway. Itinerary: 7-Day Pacific Northwest Road Trip.
