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Elevation Gain
Do a short interpretive loop that passes a crashing creek as it heads to the ocean, gaze up at dizzyingly tall trees, and soak it all in – literally. The Quinault rainforest can average 140 inches of rain each year, so bring your gear – there will be plenty of puddles to splash in on this hike!
From the parking area (complete with bathrooms), set out on the loop. You can go either way, since both routes reveal delightful discoveries, and there’s no particular order to them. Climb gently through dripping rainforest. Trees drip moss, moss drips water, rain drips from the sky…You can learn all about the delicate ecosystem at play here thanks to helpful interpretive signs that accompany you illustrating everything from life cycle of the massive trees to the abundant fungi to the animals that live here.
The trail provides good views down to Willaby Creek, and a short detour down a side trail near the parking area gives hikers a glimpse of a small waterfall. Take the opportunity to appreciate the old-growth forest. At one interpretive sign there are four different species of massive trees in one small area.
WTA Pro Tip: This nature loop connects to a larger trail system that allows for different loop opportunities. Consult the kiosks or pick up a map at the ranger station or Quinault Lodge to select the length of loop that works best for you. Note: If you're interested in the longer loop, head right at the trailhead – that way you’ll be able to do a clean loop without doubling back.
Trailhead
