The Hoh Rainforest in the Olympic National Park is one of the world’s iconic forests. Known for its vibrant greens, curtains of moss and dense, old-growth canopy, the Hoh is nearly half a day’s drive from Seattle. But campers at Bogachiel State Park, a lush rainforest in its own right, enjoy a 40-minute drive to this natural wonder. Relaxation and Olympic Peninsula exploration are the name of the game at Bogachiel. After a leisurely morning along the Bogachiel River, take Highway 101 to the Hoh Rainforest and spend a day among moss and mushrooms. Take a stroll on the mighty Hoh River, give elk herds the right of way and hope for a glimpse of the snowy Olympic Mountains. Also 45 minutes away are the wild peninsula beaches. Check out the rock pillars of Ruby Beach and nose around in the tide pools at Rialto, Beach 2 and Beach 4. Then enjoy dinner at Kalaloch or in Forks, where you also can pick up "Twilight" souvenirs for the vampire story fan in your family.

Back at Bogachiel, soak your feet in the river and take your time in this green-enshrouded forest. You have now seen a part of the world that few will ever experience.

State Parks Tagged With: Forks