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DescriptionConditionsCampingConcernsSafetyRegulations

Hoh Lake

General Location: 28 miles east of Forks, WA north of Olympus Ranger Station in the Hoh Valley.

Trailhead: Sol Duc trailhead, Hoh trailhead

Notices:

Be a Wilderness Steward.
Always Leave No Trace
of your stay in the wilderness.

Hoh Lake
Hoh Lake

Click on Map for Larger Image
Map of Hoh Lake Area

Description

Ecosystem type: Subalpine meadow, subalpine lake basin, montane forest
Trail tread types: Well-maintained  

General elevation trend: Steep
River crossings: None
Unique features:
The trail ascends 22 switchbacks from the Hoh River to the subalpine basin of Hoh Lake. Avalanche lilies and other subalpine species are prolific in season. Above, at High Divide, are excellent views of the interior Olympics. Elk and bear are frequently seen in summer and early fall. The trail passes through the area of the Hoh Fire (1978).
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance:
14.7 miles from Hoh Trailhead, 9.7 miles from Sol Duc
Elevation change:
800 ft. loss from High Divide, 3,500 ft. gain from Hoh River Trail
Best Season: Mid July through September

Trail Conditions

Hoh River Trail
Hoh Lake Trail
High Divide Trail

Camping

Permits/Reservations: Camping is limited between May 1 and September 30. Obtain permits at the WIC in Port Angeles, Eagle Ranger Station (Sol Duc) or Hoh Visitor Center during business hours.  50% of campsites can be reserved, no more than 30 days in advance. Contact the WIC.
Food Storage Method: Community bear wires are available at Hoh Lake and C.B. Flats. Bear canisters are recommended in some nearby areas.
Location and sites:
The only campsites on the trail occur at CB Flats (3,500 ft.), 0.5 mile below Hoh Lake, and at Hoh Lake. Groups of between 7 and 12 persons must camp in designated group site at C.B. Flats.
Toilet Facilities: 
C.B. Flats and Hoh Lake have pit toilets. In other areas, bury waste 6-8" 200 ft from campsites and water sources 
Water Source:
Hoh Lake Creek, Hoh Lake - Always boil, filter or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent getting Giardia.
Stock:
Camp only in designated stock sites. No camping above 3,500 ft.

Special Concerns
Leave No Trace: Leave No Trace of your stay to protect vegetation and prevent further camping regulations. Camp in designated sites only. A revegetation project has just been completed at Hoh Lake. Please camp lightly to protect vegetation.
Fires: No campfires at C.B. Flats or Hoh Lake. To protect sensitive vegetation, campfires are not allowed above 3,500 feet.
Respect Wildlife: To protect bears and other wildlife, a
ll food, garbage and scented items must be secured from all wildlife 24 hours a day.
Safety

Safety: In early season several steep snow slopes exist along this trail. An ice ax may be required for much of the spring and early summer. It may also be difficult to follow sections of trail due to snow. Map and compass skills may also be required during much of the spring and summer.

 

Privacy & Disclaimer
Author: Bryan Bell
Last modified on: June 9, 2005
www.nps.gov/olym/wic/dhola.htm