Washington is home to some of the most spectacular trails. But there's one trail in particular that really takes hiking to a whole other level. A trek along the Hall of Mosses Trail in the Hoh Rain Forest is an easy, relaxing adventure that everyone should experience at least once. You’ll be able to see the jaw-dropping beauty of one of our state’s temperate rainforests (one of the only temperate rainforests in the world, in fact!) and be surrounded by a stunning Amazon-like scene. Let's go on an adventure along this rainforest hike in Washington!
There are a few trails you can take in the Hoh Rainforest, but the Hall of Mosses is truly an extraordinary adventure.
The easy, short loop starts at the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center and only has about 100 feet of elevation gain, making for an exotic trip that everyone can enjoy. Along the way you'll spot plenty of educational signs, and tons of old-growth trees covered in moss. The loop runs for only 0.8 of a mile roundtrip, and circles a section just above the Hoh River.
Throughout the winter season, the rainforest can receive up to 140-170 inches (or 12 to 14 feet) of precipitation, resulting in this gorgeous, lush green canopy.
The enchanting forest along this trail is definitely unlike anything you've ever seen. The old temperate trees stand over 200 feet tall and are covered in huge clumps of moss. Some of the types include Bigleaf Maples, Western Hemlocks and Sitka Spruces. There's also several signs along the way that will help identify all of the different trees and plants.
It almost looks like something out of an old storybook.
Along the main trail you'll come across a small 200-foot side path, which leads to a mesmerizing grove full of maple trees covered in moss.
Along the way, you may come across a number of fallen trees. Due to all of the water and nutrients in the soil from being in a rainforest, many of them have stunted roots and can fall down easily during heavy wind storms. Often times, moss will grow right over these fallen tree trunks.
Aside from all of the otherworldly trees, you may also spot an abundance of incredible wildlife here, including birds or Roosevelt elk.
On a rainy day, you may also see a gigantic banana slug, which is actually the second largest species of land slug in the entire world.
If you stop by on a day without many visitors, you'll find complete serenity.
All of the soothing sounds in the rainforest are so relaxing to hear along the trail in the background.
After completing this amazing loop, be sure to check out the Spruce Nature Trail for more rainforest explorations.
It's only about 1.2 miles, and can be found near the Hoh Visitors Center.
Between its short length and minimum elevation gain, the Hall of Mosses Trail only takes about an hour to complete.
Open year-round, this relaxing hike through the rainforest is a unique experience in our state you'll definitely never forget.
Have you been on this rainforest hike in Washington before? It's hard to believe such a wonder actually exists. That's the beauty of The Evergreen State -- it's just full of natural splendor.
Hoh Rain Forest is an absolute bucket-list must -- and here's why.
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