Hoh Lake Trail

Notices

All food, garbage, and scented items must be stored in park-approved bear canisters.
For the most up to date information about how to obtain a Wilderness Permit, visit our Wilderness Reservations page. Early reservations are recommended for trips taking place between May 1 and September 30.

Ecosystem type: Subalpine meadow, subalpine lake basin, montane forest
Trail tread types: Well-maintained
General elevation trend: Steep
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. Excellent views of the interior Olympics are afforded above Hoh Lake on High Divide. Elk and bear are frequently seen in summer and early fall. The trail passes through the area of the Hoh Fire (1978), thus there is little tree canopy. Carry plenty of water.
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.4 miles from junction with Hoh River trail to Bogachiel Peak Junction. Hoh Lake is 14.7 miles from Hoh trailhead, 9.7 miles from Sol Duc trailhead.
Elevation change: 800 foot loss from High Divide, 3,500 foot gain from Hoh River Trail
Best Season: Mid-July through September

Food Storage Method: Food must be secured from bears and other wildlife 24 hours a day. All food, garbage, and scented items must be stored in bear canisters.
Campsites: Camp in designated sites only at Hoh Lake. A group site is located one half-mile south at C.B. Flats.
Toilet Facilities: A composting toilet is located at Hoh Lake.
Water Source: Hoh Lake. Always boil, filter, or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent Giardia.
Stock: Day-use only. See Stock Use.

Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace during your stay to protect vegetation and other park resources. Camp in designated sites only.
Campfires: To protect sensitive vegetation, campfires are prohibited at Hoh Lake.
Respect Wildlife: To protect bears and other wildlife, all food, garbage, and scented items must be secured from all wildlife 24 hours a day, unless they are being transported, consumed, or prepared for consumption. Bear canisters are recommended in this area.

Always carry the 10 Essentials: map, compass, flashlight, knife, matches, nylon cord, extra food and water, and rain gear with warm clothes.
Map & compass navigation skills may be necessary in places along this trail. Snow may cover higher reaches of this trail in any season, so know how to navigate without a trail for guidance.
Ice axe and self-arrest skills necessary to hike this trail when snow-covered.
Let someone know where and when you are taking your hike. Make emergency plans for them to follow if you do not return.
Watch the weather before and during your hike. Storms move quickly. Always check weather forecasts before your trip.

Last updated: January 29, 2026

600 E. Park Avenue
Port Angeles, WA 98362

360 565-3130