Hoh Lake Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Lake · Views · Wildflowers

This trail is sometimes muddy with standing water on the trail, and the elevation gain makes for a challenging route. Runners of this trail will certainly be rewarded for their burning legs, as views along the way are spectacular.

The Hoh Lake Trail is a challenging but rewarding trek up to a beautiful alpine lake and the High Divide Trail beyond. Starting from the junction with the Hoh River Trail, head north up through dense forest. After about 1/2 mile the trail turns west to begin a series of relentless switchbacks up a steep hillside. The park service says there are 21 switchbacks, but who is counting?! This climb goes along the edge of an area that burned in 1978 and is exposed to the sun. Views of Hoh River Valley and Mt. Olympus are great from here.

Upon reaching the ridge from Green Peak, you'll get a brief respite, but more ascending remains. Run steadily uphill paralleling Hoh Creek and then cross it. A patch of level ground and some camping spots are found after the creek crossing. Surmount another handful of switchbacks to the southern edge of Hoh Lake. When you're ready, climb up out of the Hoh Lake bowl, contouring around the eastern side. From here tarverse just below the spine and end at the junction with High Divide Trail at the southern base of Bogachiel Peak.

Check with a ranger beforehand about trail conditions - snowfield crossings, downed trees or trail washouts can occur here. Times for least amount of snow: mid-July through September. Note: bikes are not allowed on this trail.

Wildflowers, huckleberries, blueberries, tea berries and raspberries. Bear, elk, deer, otter, rabbit, coyote, marmots.