Hoh Rainforest Closure: Alternatives for Your Hoh Rainforest Elopement in Olympic National Park
If you’ve been paying close attention, you might have seen that as of the end of December 2024, the road to the Hoh rainforest Visitor Center is washed out indefinitely. If you’re planning a 2025 wedding or elopement in the Hoh, that may come as devastating news.
What you need to know about the indefinite Hoh Rainforest Closure:
Olympic National Park’s Hoh Rainforest is one of the most breathtaking spots in the Pacific Northwest, famous for its towering moss-covered trees, lush ferns, and the magical Hall of Mosses trail. But if you’ve been dreaming of visiting, there’s some important news—you won’t be able to get there right now. The main access road to the Hoh Rainforest is closed indefinitely, which means some of the park’s most iconic trails are currently off-limits, including:
- Hall of Mosses – This short but stunning 0.8-mile loop is straight out of a fairytale, with massive trees draped in vibrant green moss, creating an enchanted forest atmosphere. It’s one of the park’s most famous hikes for a reason!
- Spruce Nature Trail – A peaceful 1.2-mile walk through the rainforest and along the Hoh River, where you’ll find crystal-clear streams, moss-covered logs, and plenty of birdsong to keep you company.
- Hoh River Trail – A longer, more adventurous 17.3-mile trek that winds deep into the wilderness, leading all the way to Glacier Meadows beneath Mount Olympus. This trail offers some of the most pristine, remote sections of the rainforest, with old-growth trees towering overhead.
Unfortunately, the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center and Campground are also closed, with no estimated reopening date. Based on the National Park Service’s latest photos and coverage from local news, the damage looks pretty significant—so it could be quite a while before this area is accessible again.
But not to fear! The Hoh is just one of FIVE west-facing river valleys that all have alternative trails with that lush, dripping-with-moss, emerald rainforest vibe: The Sol Duc, the Bogachiel, the Quinault, and the Queets River Valleys all feature areas that look similar or even more stunning than the trails around the Hoh Visitor Center. There are trails as close to Port Angeles as Lake Crescent and as remote as the Duckabush — whether you want an easy stroll in the forest near with accessible bathrooms and amenities, or a challenging back-country adventure.
Your 2025 Guide to the best alternatives to the Hoh Rainforest & Hall of Mosses Trails
Why do couples love eloping in the Hoh Rainforest anyways?
The Hoh Rainforest is like something straight out of a storybook—lush, green, and teeming with life all year long. With up to 14 feet of annual rainfall, it’s a magical world of towering Sitka spruces, ancient trees draped in moss, and the soothing sounds of rustling wildlife and birdsong. Walking through its misty trails feels like stepping into a fairytale, where every turn reveals another breathtaking scene. Plus, it’s home to Roosevelt elk, adorable banana slugs, and a stunning variety of plant life that thrive in the damp, dreamy atmosphere.
With its dense canopy and soft, filtered light, the Hoh Rainforest creates an enchanting setting that’s perfect for elopements, photography, and simply soaking in nature’s beauty. But because of its popularity, it can get pretty crowded—especially in peak season, when wait times to enter can stretch over two hours!
The Hoh Rainforest is lauded as one of the quietest places on earth, with all the moss and foliage to dampen any noise from planes passing overhead. The noise and tumult of the Seattle Metropolitan area is over three hours drive away, on the other side of an entire mountain range. By the time Highway 101 winds up the coast to the western side of the Olympic Peninsula, it’s a rural two-lane interstate that never sees the level of traffic equivalent to busier parts of the state. Most of the vehicles are other visitors to the National Park, locals, and occasional log trucks that still run loads of timber from the remaining state-managed timber forests. The only noises you hear on the forest trails are the dripping of water running off the leaves, the rustle of ferns and huckleberry bushes against your clothing, and the flap of wings and intermittent birdsong from the feathered natives of the area. Once in a while you might encounter a herd of Roosevelt Elk, but odds are you won’t hear them until you realize they’re only yards away from you amongst the trees!
No Hoh? No Problem—Plenty of Other Magical Places Await!
While we may not be able to visit the Hall of Mosses Trail this year, the silver lining is that there are other options to get those enchanting, otherworldly forest vibes throughout the western side of Olympic National Park. Arching maples, hemlock, and fir trees literally dripping with lush moss and ferns, streams and little rivers meandering through the woods, acres of sword ferns creating a lush carpet under the canopy of leaves are all part of the scenery you can find in the Sol Duc, Bogachiel, Quinault, and Queens river valleys. There are still a few locations that are accessible in the Hoh area on properties outside the boundaries of Olympic National Park, as well as a handful of lesser-known National Park trails, but it helps to have someone local who knows the area well!
I’m as disappointed as you—the closure of the Hoh Rainforest is a bummer. But here’s the good news: Olympic National Park is packed with equally stunning spots that offer the same mossy trees, lush green ferns, and moody forest vibes. And honestly? Even when the Hoh is open, it can be so busy that finding a peaceful moment can be tough—definitely not the stress-free experience most couples dream of for their elopement!
Luckily, I know some incredible hidden gems that have all the magic of the Hoh but without the long lines and crowds. Below, I’m sharing the best alternative locations that deliver those dreamy rainforest vibes—some of which might even be better than the original!
Dreamy Hoh Rainforest Alternatives
Olympic National Park is full of breathtaking landscapes that rival the Hoh Rainforest in beauty and charm. Whether you’re drawn to moss-covered trees, serene rivers, or lush greenery, these alternative locations offer stunning scenery and a peaceful, crowd-free experience—perfect for an unforgettable elopement!
Don’t Worry—There Are Plenty of Other Magical Forest Elopement and Wedding Options!
If you were hoping for that iconic rainforest backdrop for your trip, hike, or even an elopement, don’t worry! There are plenty of other magical spots in Olympic National Park that offer the same lush, mossy beauty. I’ve rounded up the best alternatives so you can still experience the enchantment of the rainforest—without the wait.
Here is everything you need to know to plan an elopement or wedding that will look just as spectacular as the Hoh Rainforest ceremony you’ve been dreaming of!
Olympic National Park boasts some of the most acres of temperate rainforest in North America. There are dozens of trails throughout the park that will give you all the ferns and moss and mist your heart desires. While the Hoh Rainforest itself is stunning, many other areas of the park offer similar enchanted forest vibes, rushing year-round river valleys, and all the moss your heart desires.
The west side of Olympic National Park is home to one of the largest temperate rainforests in North America—a stunning, one-of-a-kind destination that feels like pure magic! Whether you’re a longtime lover of the Pacific Northwest or visiting for the first time, this lush, mossy wonderland is accessible year-round and ready to wow you. Keep scrolling to see more breathtaking locations that capture the same enchanting beauty as a Hoh Rainforest elopement!
The Hoh Rainforest and other rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula are located in the northwestern corner of Washington state, separated from mainland of Washington by the Puget Sound, and from Canada by the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north.
There aren’t many towns on the west side of the Olympic Peninsula. Forks, of Twilight fame, is the largest community west of Port Angeles and north of Aberdeen. You’ll need a car, which I recommend renting in the Seattle area if you’re planning to fly from outside of Washington State. Plan for a minimum of four hours to travel from the Seattle area to the west side of Olympic National Park, and allow plenty of travel time between locations like Kalaloch, Forks, Bogachiel,
Olympic National Park is home to four temperate rainforests, each with its own unique characteristics and stunning landscapes. These rainforests are some of the most pristine examples of temperate rainforests in the world! Each one is named after the river valley in which it is found:
1. Hoh Rainforest
The most famous and iconic of the rainforests, known for its towering trees, lush moss, and the Hall of Mosses Trail. The Hoh receives around 140-170 inches of rain annually, creating an incredibly dense, green environment. Sadly, unless you have access to a private property, the Olympic National Park-owned areas of the Hoh Rainforest are likely inaccessible for 2025.
2. Quinault Rainforest
Located near Lake Quinault, this rainforest features the Maple Glade Trail and some of the largest trees in the world, including record-holding Sitka spruce and Western red cedar. The Quinault area is also rich in wildlife and has beautiful hiking opportunities.
3. Bogachiel Rainforest
Often overlooked, this rainforest lies just northwest of the Hoh. It offers a quieter, less-traveled experience with beautiful trails and a similar lush environment of moss-draped trees and ferns.
4. Queets Rainforest
The most remote and wild of the four rainforests, the Queets is perfect for adventurers seeking solitude. The Queets River Trail is a highlight, but visitors must ford the river to access it, adding to the sense of adventure.
Alternate Locations That Look Like the Hoh Rainforest
Best Place to Elope that look like the Hoh Rainforest and the Hall of Mosses
I’ve scouted numerous locations that have a similar look and feel to the Hoh Rainforest. Arching, dramatic maples and mossy conifers, acres of sword firms, and beautiful rivers winding through the forested mountains evoke all the mystery and tranquility of the Hoh!
Bogachiel Rainforest
- Bogachiel River and Ira Springs Wetland Loop
Pronounced “Boga-sheel,” the Bogachiel river valley is just south of the town of Forks. While that reduces travel time somewhat in comparison to the Hoh Rainforest, it’s balanced by the fact that the road to the trailhead is extremely rough. Four-wheel drive and good tires are absolutely necessary. I personally wouldn’t make this drive in a smaller car; a SUV or a truck would be preferable.
The hike itself is fairly easy; it begins with a short descent from the parking area into a lush, forested valley featuring numerous trails, acres of lush ferns, and some of the most massive and stunning trees I’ve ever seen.
- Features: Similar mossy trees, ferns, and fewer crowds.
- Accessibility & permit requirements.
Quinault Rainforest
Lake Quinault Loop Trail
Quinault Rain Forest Nature Trail
- Features: Towering trees, moss-covered canopy, serene rivers.
- Key spots: Quinault Loop Trail, Gatton Creek Falls, Maple Glade Rainforest Trail.
- Accessibility & permit requirements.
Sol Duc Valley
While the Sol Duc Valley in Olympic National Park isn’t officially classified as one of the park’s four temperate rainforests (Hoh, Quinault, Bogachiel, and Queets), it does share many of the lush, green characteristics of a rainforest. The valley receives significant rainfall annually—close to 100 inches—which fosters a vibrant ecosystem of moss-draped trees, ferns, and abundant wildlife.
The Sol Duc area is best known for its hot springs, waterfalls, and beautiful hiking trails, such as the Sol Duc Falls Trail, which winds through mossy old-growth forests. While it’s not designated as a temperate rainforest, its environment feels very similar, and it offers an equally magical, immersive experience. So while it’s not technically a rainforest by name, it’s a lush, verdant destination well worth visiting!
Ancient Groves Trail
Sol Duc Falls and Lovers Lane Trail
- Features: Deep forest, waterfalls, and hot springs.
- Key spots: Sol Duc Falls Trail, Lover’s Lane Loop.
- Seasonal road closures, best visiting times, and accessibility.
Lake Crescent
Moments in Time Trail at Barnes Point
Fairholm Campground/Boat Launch
- Features: Lake views, mossy forests, and mountain backdrops.
- Key spots: Marymere Falls Trail, Spruce Railroad Trail, Devil’s Punchbowl.
- Accessibility & permit requirements.
Here are few other spots I’m hoping to explore this year that promise to have those rainforest vibes along with rivers, lakes, & waterfalls:
Queets River
Lake Cushman and Duckabush
Kestner Homestead – Maple Glade Trail (Hoh area, alternate road)
This enchanting trail offers a short, easy loop through a lush landscape of towering maples draped in moss, providing a quintessential rainforest experience. To reach the trailhead, head to the Quinault Rainforest area near Lake Quinault; the trail is situated close to the Quinault Ranger Station and the Rain Forest Nature Trail. It’s a perfect spot for visitors seeking a serene and accessible hike amidst the verdant beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Rocky Brook Falls – Brinnon
Murhut Falls Trail – Duckabush
ADA-Accessible Areas in Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park offers a few ADA-accessible trails and features designed to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. These trails are generally paved or have smooth, well-maintained surfaces, making them easier to navigate for those using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids. Here are some of the key ADA-accessible areas:
- Madison Falls
- Hurricane Ridge area trails
- Spruce Railroad Trail
Service animals are allowed anywhere in Olympic National Park, including on trails.
Where to Stay for Your Hoh Rainforest Inspired Elopement:
Lodging Near Alternative Rainforest Locations
- Port Angeles (close to Sol Duc & Lake Crescent)
- Red Lion
- Olympic Lodge
- PA Airbnbs
- Forks (close to Bogachiel Rainforest)
- Miller Tree Inn, Rustic Forest Cabin Airbnb, Woodland Retreat Airbnb.
- Quinault (close to Quinault Rainforest)
- Lake Quinault Lodge, Rainforest Retreat Airbnb, Lakeview Cabin Airbnb.
While you could book a hotel in Forks or Port Angeles, I recommend an AirBnb or boutique hotel for your Olympic National Park Rainforest Wedding. There are dozens throughout the peninsula — here are a few that caught my eye:
Hoh Valley Cabins | Manitou Lodge | Quillayute River Resort
The Hoh House | Oceanfront Olympic Cabin | Tiny Sol Duc River Cabin
Camping near the Hoh Rainforest
There are several campgrounds that offer a similar experience to the Hoh Rainforest. A couple of my favorites are Mora Campground at Rialto Beach, Klahoya Campground (National Forest), Fairholm Campground on Lake Crescent, and Sol Duc Campground. You’ll feel totally immersed in the towering evergreen forest and all of those options also have an incredible body of water or river nearby. Falling asleep to the sound of water steps away from your bed is one of the best experience you can have, in my humble opinion! You can camp in a tent, an RV, or even rent a camper van for a modern twist on traditional camping! If you plan to camp, I recommend reserving a campsite through Recreation.gov or Hipcamp https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US
There are a few places that offer more of a glamping experience in the vicinity of the Hoh:
Mossquatch Resort | Menizei | Aliya Preserve
Bringing Your Dog To the Hoh Rainforest
While dogs are able to be in parking lots and campgrounds, dogs are not allowed on most trails or inside buildings in Olympic National Park, service dogs being an exception. There area a handful of trails where dogs are welcome; I’ve listed them below. However, dogs are allowed on many trails outside the National Park, including Olympic National Forest, Washington State Parks, and DNR and BLM trails. It’s still important to make sure your dog is on a leash and practice leave-no-trace principles.
Places You Can Bring Your Dog
- Peabody Creek Trail (Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles)
- Rialto Beach parking lot to Ellen Creek (1/2 mile)
- The beaches between the Hoh and Quinault Reservations (Kalaloch area)
- Madison Falls Trail (Elwha)
- Spruce Railroad Trail (North shore of Lake Crescent)
- July Creek Loop Trail (North shore of Lake Quinault)
- Drive-up campsites
- Paved or dirt roads
Legal Requirements for Eloping in Olympic National Park
If you want to have a legal elopement or wedding ceremony in Washington State, you’ll need to plan for obtaining a marriage license. You can get a license from any county clerk’s office in Washington. The Port Angeles Courthouse is a convenient option if you’re headed for the rainforests of Olympic National Park. There is a three-day waiting period, and the license is valid for 60 days.
If you’re having family or guests attend, you’ll need a special use permit if your ceremony will take place in Olympic National Park.
Washington State law requires two witnesses in addition to your officiant.
- Special use permits for ceremonies.
- Officiant and witness requirements.
Legal Requirements for Eloping in Olympic National Park
Eloping in Olympic National Park requires some planning and legal considerations. Here’s what couples need to know before saying ‘I do’ in the park:
- Marriage License: Couples must obtain a marriage license from any county clerk’s office in Washington State. There is a three-day waiting period, and the license is valid for 60 days.
- Permits for Elopements: A special use permit is required for ceremonies held within Olympic National Park. Fees vary, so it’s best to check with the National Park Service for current rates and application processes.
- Officiants & Witnesses: Washington State law requires an officiant and two witnesses. If eloping with just the couple, consider hiring a photographer or guide who can also act as a witness.
Best Time of Year to Elope in Olympic National Park
Spring: Lush foliage, full waterfalls, frequent rain.
Late spring is a great time to visit the Hoh Rainforest. The summer crowds haven’t arrived yet, so the trails are wonderfully peaceful. The forest is coming alive after a long, wet winter, and the mossy greenery is at its most vibrant, bursting with fresh life. If I had to pick the perfect time to visit, late May to mid-June would definitely be my sweet spot. The colors and energy are just magical!
Summer: Best weather, long daylight hours, but crowded.
Summer comes in as a close second for the best time to visit the Hoh. It’s the most accessible season—trails are dry, shops and amenities are buzzing, and the nearby towns are full of life with visitors. But it does come with its challenges. The trails get busier, lines grow longer, and finding a place to stay can be tricky. If you’re craving some quiet moments, try an early sunrise hike or a weekday—Mon-Thurs to beat the weekend crowds!
Fall: Beautiful foliage, fewer tourists, moody foggy mornings.
Autumn in a rainforest is like nothing else. While the green might be tinged with browns after a dry summer, the atmosphere is still pure rainforest magic. Fall is a busy time for outdoor enthusiasts, as everyone rushes to soak up the last bits of warm weather before winter hits. But there’s still something wonderfully “summery” about the forest during this time, and it feels like the perfect time to squeeze in those last adventures before the rains come.
Winter: Quiet and serene, possible snow closures.
Winter in the Hoh is what I like to call the “muddy season.” If you don’t mind a little mud (okay, maybe a lot of mud!), you’ll be rewarded with a uniquely private experience in the forest—because let’s face it, not many people are brave enough to tackle the trails during this time! The weather can be unpredictable, with some days offering bursts of sunshine between the soggy branches, but more often, it’s thick grey clouds and steady rain. It’s a gamble, but the raw beauty of the Hoh in winter is like no other!
What should you wear for your Rainforest Elopement?
Even during the warmest months of the year, rain can happen anytime — it’s a rainforest, after all! Late Fall, Winter, and Spring are almost guaranteed to be wet; if it’s not falling from the sky, there will be mud and puddles to navigate.
- For Brides: Lighter fabrics and draped styles that are easy to walk and move in. You’ll be clambering around in the forest, hopping across streams, and weaving your way through ferns and bushes, so movement is key. Flowing dresses with lace or crepe that can move with you are your best friend! A cathedral veil adds extra drama, and a shawl or wrap can add warmth on chilly days. Practice moving, sitting, and climbing stairs in your dress and shoes.
- For Grooms: Movement is important for grooms too, as well as shoes or boots that are waterproof or water resistant. Choose footwear that has good traction; consider boots, especially during wetter times of the year. Choose a fabric like wool that won’t show dark spots from rain or drizzle.
- Weather Protection: Bring a light raincoat, even in the summer; clear umbrellas can also be helpful on drizzly days! I also encourage bringing a dry change of clothes for the ride home
Activities for Before & After the Elopement
- Hike to the Northwestern most point of the contiguous US at Cape Flattery
- Paddle board or kayak on Lake Crescent or Lake Quinault
- Skip rocks and run from the waves at Rialto beach
- Stroll the sandy beach at Kalaloch
- Hike to a waterfall at Marymere Falls
- Go stargazing at Hurricane Ridge
- Look for wildlife in the river valleys and on the coast!
- Visit some of our great local restaurants: Yodelin Broth Company, Nextdoor Gastropub Moby Duck Chowder and Seafood in Port Angeles, Lake Crescent Lodge, Lake Quinault Lodge, Kalaloch Lodge, The Salmon House in Quinault, Creekside Restaurant at Kalaloch Lodge
Vendors for your Hoh Rainforest style elopement
Officiants
Officiant Jimmie https://www.instagram.com/officiantjimmie
Northwind Nuptials – http://northwindnuptials.weebly.com/
Leslie Sundquist Officiant – https://www.instagram.com/lesliesundquist/
The marriage mate – Brooke bakogeorge – https://themarriagemate.com
Hair & Makeup Artists
Liz Kellerman https://msha.ke/lizkellermanmakeup/
Halle Elise Beck https://halleelisemua.godaddysites.com/
It’s Likely Makeup by Min – https://www.itslikelymakeupbymin.com/ Blushing by Jen https://www.instagram.com/blushingbyjen
Yessie Libbie https://www.yessiemakeupartistry.com/makeupartist
Florists
A&E Event Florals https://www.aeeventflorals.com/
LVF Floral https://lvffloral.com/?
Manette Flower Co https://www.manetteflowerco.com/
Farm & Flower WA https://www.farmandflowerwa.com/
Planners
Hulia Events https://hulalievents.com/
Farm & Flower WA https://www.farmandflowerwa.com/
Elevated Events by Tosha https://www.elevatedeventsbytosha.com/
Prologue Events https://prologueevents.com/
Hummingbird Event Co. https://hummingbirdeventco.com/click-me
Emerald Engagements https://emeraldengagements.com/
Tapestry Event Co https://www.tapestryeventco.com/
Evergreen Weddings https://anevergreenwedding.com/
Authentic Events PNW instagram.com/authenticeventspnw
Food
Sea to Summit Charcuterie https://seatosummitcc.com/
Cake & Dessert
Middle Name Baking Co. https://www.middlenamebakingco.com/Bartender/Cocktails
Barventures & Co https://www.barventuresandco.com/
The Cactus Cantina https://www.thecactuscantina.com/
Rentals & Decor
Rivers Edge Farmstead – https://www.instagram.com/riversedge.farmstead
Kims Creations and Tulle Shed https://www.kimscreationsandtulleshed.com/
Occasions and Creations by Jaime – https://www.occasionsandcreationsbyjaime.com/
Violinist – Christie Becker Violin http://www.christiebeckerviolin.com/
Ready to Plan Your Olympic National Park Elopement?
Ready to capture the magic of your wedding or elopement? Let’s make your dream day unforgettable! With Adrien Craven Photography, you’ll get stunning, timeless images that tell your unique story. Whether you’re saying “I do” under mossy old-growth maples or in front of the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean, I’ll be there to document every beautiful moment.
Don’t wait—let’s create something amazing together! Click below to book your wedding or elopement photography with Adrien Craven Photography today! 📸✨
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