: 100 feet
: 1-mile lollipop loop
: Spring, Summer, Fall
: Forest, Old Growth, Stream, Wildlife, Kid-Friendly
: Restrooms, Potable Water, Visitors Center
: None
: Hikers
: US National Park Service
: Forks, WA
1. Head south on US-101 S/S Forks Ave toward A St SW
Continue to follow US-101 S
13.1 mi
2. Turn left onto Upper Hoh Rd
18.1 mi
Explore the richly vegetated Hoh Rainforest on the family-friendly Hall of Mosses Trail. This aptly-named loop exhibits stunning, moss-draped branches and towering old growth with an educational twist. Throughout the route are interpretive signs that provide a strong introduction to the diverse flora and fauna of Olympic National Park.
Set off on the well-marked Hall of Mosses Trail, adjacent to the visitors’ center. After a brief jaunt on the paved path, you will turn left at a well-marked intersection. Cross the bridge over a lovely, moss-shaded stream and proceed uphill.
After a 0.1-mile climb, the trail will level out and form a small loop. Take the left fork and follow the dirt trail as it arcs through thick forest. Soon you will arrive at a spur leading to the Maple Grove. Take this small detour to view an impressive array of gnarled, arcing branches draped with long sheets of clubmoss.
Return to the main trail and continue the loop. You will pass many more impressive moss-laden trees and towering stands of old growth. Keep right at an unmarked intersection midway through the loop. You will ascend a brief incline before the trail begins to slope gradually downhill. You will parallel an immense downed log shortly before returning to the start of the loop.
Retrace your steps downhill and over the bridge to return to your starting point.
As you walk, keep an eye out for wildlife. Small fish dart about the stream, a slew of birds (including several species of woodpeckers) call the forest home, and elk frequent the area.
Maps: Trails Illustrated: Olympic National Park; USGS: Owl Mountain, WA; Custom Correct: Seven Lakes Basin-Hoh
