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Hike the Heart O' the Forest Trail

Port Angeles, Washington

5.0/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

4.52 miles

Elevation Gain

840 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by John Maurizi

Distance: 4 miles round trip. Walk through a rain forest-like wonderland of green. Get a taste of the wild Olympic National Park. Trail is still accessible during the off-season and just feet away from Heart O' The Hills Campground.

This hike is a short, 4.0 mile round trip, half-day or less hike, located just past the Hurricane Ridge entrance into Olympic National Park. Being relatively level and the trail head just off loop E of the Heart O' the Hills Campground, the Heart O' the Forest hike offers those looking for a taste of the rain forest ecosystem on the Olympic Peninsula a chance to explore without committing multiple days to their adventure.

Just past the trail head you're immediately immersed into the massive forest filled with old-growth redwoods. Discover rolling streams and moss covered rocks throughout the hike. Large mushrooms spot fallen trees while new life springs from logs and downed branches. The trail leads away from the main road and campsites creating a quiet and serine adventure especially for those with children or who cannot make it up to Hurricane Ridge.

After your hike, return to your campsite or make your way into Port Angeles just 5 miles from the park entrance for some small town charm and a pretty decent beer at Next Door Gastropub and don't forget an order of garlic fries.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
River
Scenic
Wildlife

Reviews

Came here in January and found the trail all to myself (it was raining...). It was a relaxing walk despite the weather and was happy to have made the effort.

I hiked this late one afternoon. I didn't see anyone the entire way. Great time

Been on this lil hike, it's beautiful

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Backpack to Lake Angeles

Olympic National Park Foothills Trail

Klahhane Ridge (Switchback Route)

Peabody Creek Trail

Klahhane Ridge Trail

Hurricane Hill