3 Things to Do in Forks, Wa Not Related to Twilight 2025
You can literally be on a river or the forest in a few minutes from Forks. Rafting, mountain biking, running and hiking are just a few activities available. Endless outdoor recreational opportunities right outside city limits!
Forks, Washington is a small town on the northwest side of the Olympic Peninsula. You can be in moss covered coastal forest 1 mile in any direction from town. Many rivers also pass by in the area, which include the Calawah, Sol Duc and Bogachiel drainages.
This means you can literally be on a river or the forest in a few minutes from Forks. Rafting, mountain biking, running and hiking are just a few activities available. Endless outdoor recreational opportunities right outside city limits!
Explore Trails in the Rain Forest
There are many trails in a 1 mile radius from Forks. Being in a coastal rainforest provides a very unique outdoor experience. Deep moss, thick ferns and wildlife are just some of the things. Enjoy the beauty of being so close to the ocean, that the dynamic weather creates such an amazing environment to adventure in.
Hiking on the Beach
Forks, Washington is located near the Pacific Ocean. You can travel there only 20 minutes by car. Much of the coastline is within tribal land or protected by the Olympic National Park. This makes it an unique place for storm watching or escaping the heat of a hot summer day.
Float on a Wild River
Forks is located near many coastal rivers on the Olympic Peninsula. This makes for several recreational opportunities which may include sightseeing by boat or fishing. White water enthusiasts also frequent the rivers for a thrill adventure. Wildlife viewing by river is one of the best ways to experience elk, bear and birds. These rivers eventually flow together before reaching the Pacific Ocean.
5 Best Trails in Forks, Washington (Hiking, Running and Biking) - 1 Mile Radius 2025
Forks, Washington has many nature trails [link] to explore right from town. Many can be accessed without even getting into a car if you’re staying in town. Recreational opportunities may include hiking, biking and running. Outdoor activities can be done year around, because of our mild climate. Let’s get out and explore the beautiful Olympic Peninsula outdoors!
Forks, Washington has many nature trails to explore right from town. Many of these can be accessed without even getting into a car if you’re staying in town. Recreational opportunities may include hiking, running and biking. Outdoor activities can be done year around, because of our mild climate. Let’s get out and explore the beautiful Olympic Peninsula outdoors!
Reade Hill Trails
The Reade Hill Trail is a lollipop multi-use (hiking, run and biking) path through the forest. This trail passes through 4 different forest types. There are also several interpretive signs which can be viewed along this family friendly path. Our favorite is the old growth coastal forest at its furthest point.
Land manager: Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Google Maps Directions: Reade Hill Trailhead
Elk Creek Conservation Area Trails
The Elk Creek Trail is a beautiful path for hiking, running and biking. Trail starts in a dense forest which has been logged at some point. Then after a small climb, it leads you down to the creek bottom, where old growth trees can still be viewed. A great outdoor adventure for families!
Land manager: North Olympic Land Trust
Google Maps Directions: Elk Creek Trails
Floyd M Thorton and ONRC Loop Trails
The Floyd M Thorton and ONRC Loop Trails is a path through the forest for hiking and running. It starts at lower elevation and leads you up into the foothills above Forks, Washington. Various versions of this loop hike can be done, to keep things interesting for next time you return. Another great hike for families!
Land managers: City of Forks and University of Washington
Google Maps Directions: Floyd M Thorton Nature Trail
Calawah River Trails
The Calawah River Loop trails are beautiful hiking and running through the forest. This path leads you through the forest and along the river in places, where rapids can be viewed of the Calawah river. The forest was once logged, but old growth trees can still be found on the river corridor. A great hike for families!
Land manager: North Olympic Land Trust
Google Maps Directions: Calawah River Trails
Sportsmans MTB Trails
The Sportsmans MTB Trails system are purpose built paths for mountain biking and some hiking. These trails lead you through 6 different forest types, because they are within the Olympic Experiment State Forest, where several forest management practices can be viewed. This makes for a very unique recreation experience. A great place for those seeking a different kind of outdoor adventure!
Land manager: Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Google Maps Directions: Sportsman's MTB Trail Area