5-Day Olympic Backpacking: Hoh Rainforest to the Blue Glacier
Walk from the misty Hoh Rainforest to the blue edge of Mount Olympus’s glacier on a five-day guided backpacking loop. Daytime hikes range from flat forest strolls to a demanding 2,800-foot ascent for glacier views—guided logistics, permits, and meals included.
The Experience
Before You Go
Pack waterproof layers
The Hoh is famously wet—carry a fully waterproof jacket, rainpants, and dry bags for electronics and sleeping gear.
Plan for a steep glacier push
The optional glacier approach is ~6 miles roundtrip with ~2,800 ft gain—only attempt if you’re well-conditioned; the guide will advise on technical gear.
Carry bear-aware food storage
Use bear-resistant containers or hang packs as instructed at campsites to minimize wildlife encounters and protect food.
Expect limited cell service
Download maps, share itinerary with your group, and trust the guides’ communication devices—don’t rely on phone reception.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lewis Meadows at dawn for quiet alpine light and fewer hikers
- •Five Mile Island riverside campsites where otters and migratory birds are often seen at dusk
Wildlife
- •Roosevelt elk
- •Black bear
Conservation Note
Travelers should follow Leave No Trace and use bear-resistant storage; staying on durable routes protects fragile alpine meadows and salmon-bearing streams.
The Hoh Valley and Mount Olympus area are within the traditional lands of Hoh and Quinault peoples; the landscape features in local cultural stories and seasonal harvests.
Photographer's Notes
- • Blue Glacier overlook beneath Mount Olympus
- • Lewis Meadows ridge looking back toward the valley
- • Hoh River near Five Mile Island for reflections
What to Bring
Backpack (50–65L)Essential
Holds five days of personal clothing, sleeping system, and bear-resistant food container when needed.
Waterproof jacket and rain pantsEssential
Keeps you dry in Hoh’s frequent rain and protects clothing from persistent moisture.
Insulating layer (down or synthetic)Essential
Warmth for cold nights and high-elevation summit pushes when temperatures drop sharply.
Microspikes or crampons
Useful for early-season snow or icy approaches; glacier travel may require full crampons and guide instruction.
Common Questions
Are permits and backcountry campsites included?
Yes—permits and backcountry campsites are provided as part of the trip; guides handle permit logistics.
How hard is the glacier day?
The glacier approach is optional and involves ~6 miles roundtrip with ~2,800 ft of elevation gain; it’s strenuous and may require technical gear depending on conditions.
What is the group size and guide ratio?
Groups are small—shared trip sizes are limited (max around five), and you’ll be accompanied by experienced, certified guides.
Is previous backpacking experience required?
Previous multi-day backpacking experience is strongly recommended due to daily mileage and the optional glacier ascent.
What about bears and wildlife safety?
Guides enforce food storage protocols, carry bear spray when appropriate, and brief groups on minimizing wildlife encounters.
Can the trip be canceled for weather?
Yes—trips may be canceled or altered for safety in poor weather; cancellation policies allow refunds if made 24+ hours prior to departure.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 days (approx. 6–10 hours hiking per day on peak days)
Location
Forks, Washington
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Requires high cardiovascular fitness and experience carrying a loaded pack over multi-day terrain; good downhill control is important for the long descent.
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