Looking for the best and most fun things to do in Forks, Wa?
Forks, Washington was previously known as the unincorporated town of Quillayute. In 2010 it had a population of 3,558; however, according to an estimation made in 2018 by the Office of Financial Management—the state agency responsible for producing official statistical estimates at all levels from national down to local government units (county and city level)—in 2019 Forks’ population is estimated at 3,862 people.
For years, the local timber industry has influenced the city’s economy; recently, though, tourism has become an increasingly important part of its business because of the popularity of a novel and movie series set in this small town.
On your trip to Forks, don’t miss out on the fun and unique attractions such as Tree Root Cave or Ruby Beach. Quillayute River is also another stunning spot worth seeing while you’re there—and it’s located just minutes away from John’s Beachcombing Museum!
Let’s look at the many options for interesting things to do in Forks, WA.
Things to do in forks WA
1- Olympic national park
The Olympic National Park is a large, popular tourist attraction that covers four distinct regions: alpine areas, the Pacific coastline, east-side forests, and west-side temperate forests.
The park boasts a wide range of spectacular vistas and some remarkable exhibits. It is also home to many rare species that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world.
A large area within the park has been set aside for recreational activities such as hiking and backpacking.
The Winter also offers new activities like skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and more. The park’s scenery is beautiful—especially from the Hurricane Ridge Viewpoint!
The park offers many adventures and explorations: Old Growth Forest, Pacific Coast, Temperate Rain Forests…the different mountains.
2- Hall of Mosses
The Hall of Mosses trail is a hiking trail located in the Olympic National Park. This lush trail features large moss-covered trees which hang over the path like silk curtains.
The hiking path is in the middle of a forest made up of ancient, moss-covered trees. A side path leads to another area full of beautiful, huge maple trees.
The Hall of Mosses is a rainforest hiking trail in Olympic National Park with educational benefits and opportunities to observe wildlife. You may see the Banana slug or Roosevelt elk along this path.
This trail is so short and well-loved that children can easily hike it with their families.
3- Storm King Ranger Station
One of the best places to visit in Forks, Washington is the Storm King Ranger Station. This historical building is located in Olympic National Park and offers spectacular views of nature’s beauty.
The Storm King Ranger Station was also known as the Storm King Guard Station or Morgenroth cabin. This building, constructed in an early Peninsula log construction style, is used to house rangers and their families during duty station shifts at this remote location.
The Storm King Ranger Station is also one of the oldest functional buildings in Olympic National Park. Its link to Chris Morgenroth, a forest ranger on the peninsula whose testimony helped establish Olympic as a national park, makes it historically significant too.
In 2007, the ranger station was added to the National Register of Historic Places and its views of Yosemite National Park are breathtaking.
Storm King Ranger Station is a good place to visit.
Address: Port Angeles, WA 98363, USA
4- Rialto Beach
Rialto Beach is located between the towns of Push and Qualicum, on Vancouver Island. The beach contains many rocks, pounding surf that has pushed large drift logs onto its shoreline as well as Sea stacks— offshore islands—which can be found in the water just off the coast here.
The Rialto beach houses a rock formation called the Hole in the Wall, but most people visit this scenic spot for its sweeping views of oyster beds and giant sea-stack rocks.
Visitors are sometimes allowed to visit the beautiful rock formations on the horizon of the beach (these formations are called “Hole in Wall”).
Rialto Beach is located within Olympic National Park in Washington State. It is accessible only at low tide and features the Whole in The Wall rock formation.
Rialto Beach is one of the nicest places in Forks to relax and enjoy yourself. You can also try other outdoor activities like hiking, nature walks, or bird-watching while you’re there.
Address: La Push, Rialto Beach, Washington, 98331, USA
5- Ruby Beach
Ruby Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand that’s unique due to its rocky shoreline and the natural obstacles it presents.
Ruby Beach, located in Washington State, is often touted as the most beautiful beach in the state. The crimson-colored rocks that line its shores have earned it this moniker amongst locals and visitors alike
To visit the Olympic National Park is not complete without seeing Ruby Beach, a popular spot known for its tide pools and sea stacks.
When the tide is low, you can see crabs and anemones on Ruby beach. It’s a great place to spend time if you’re in West Vancouver.
Address: 157151 US-101, Ruby Beach, Forks, WA 98331, USA
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6- Bogachiel state park
If you’re touring the western side of the Olympic Peninsula, Bogachiel State Park is a great destination. Its 127 acres are filled with dense forests and—you guessed it!—the Bogachiel River. If your travels include camping with an RV, there’s also that option here at this state park on beautiful Puget Sound near Forks in Clallam County.
The park offers picnic, camping, and day-use facilities. The lower area includes a kitchen shelter with a grill and lights—and also features 1 mile of hiking trails.
In total, the PNT runs 1,200 miles from Olympic National Park to Montana’s Rocky Mountains. The Bogachiel Rainforest is part of that trail—a fact worth keeping in mind if you plan on hiking across it!
Address: 185983 US-101, Forks, WA 98331, USA
7- Hoh Rainforest
Visiting the Hoh Rainforest in Washington is one of our favorite things to do. The temperate rainforest gets almost 14 feet of rain a year, making it very green and luscious.
The Hoh Rain Forest is the only rainforest in Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, and one of its special features is that it extends from sea level to 4000 feet.
The Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center is 31 miles south of Forks. It is open every day during the summer and Friday-Sunday in the off-season; it’s closed from January through February.
Address: 18113 Upper Hoh Rd, Forks, WA 98331, USA
8- Twilight tours
Meyer’s Twilight novel series, based on the city of Forks, brought tourists to that scenic location.
One of the most popular Twilight-themed tours is run by the Forks team. They take visitors to different locations in Forks and tell them about how those places are featured in Stephanie Meyer’s novels.
During twilight tours by team forks, one can learn the origins of important places and events in the Twilight novels.
Visiting Forks when team Twilight tours are in town is an unforgettable experience for visitors.
It’s a great way to spend time with family and friends.
Address: 130 Spartan Ave, Forks, WA 98331, USA
9- Forks Chamber of Commerce
The Forks Chamber of Commerce is a valuable resource for visitors to the city or those new in town.
The Chamber of Commerce provides a voice and resource for businesses in the community. The Center welcomes visitors seeking information about their new city.
The staff of the chamber of commerce are knowledgeable about the city and can help with any information needed. Some common requests from visitors include itinerary planning, recommendations for things to do in town, directions to destinations—and more.
They work hard to make visitors feel welcome and provide them with information about the best places to shop, stay, fish, and dine.
The restrooms at the Forks Chamber of Commerce building are located inside and there is also a picnic area.
The chamber of commerce can provide information about the city.
Address: 1411 S Forks Ave, Forks, WA 98331, USA
10- Forks Timber Museum
The Forks Timber Museum is a fun and popular destination that explores the area’s rich history as an important timber region.
The Forks Timber Museum is a place where people can learn about the history of and relationship between the city’s timber industry.
The museum has many historical exhibits dating as far back as the city’s native residents, the Quileute. Visitors can learn about old trees, logging, and Native American artifacts by visiting available exhibitions at this educational experience.
The museum’s most popular exhibits are a 300-year-old canoe and the restored remains of a fire lookout tower. Outside, there is also an interpretive trail that provides information about the early days of this city.
The Forks Timber Museum is a great place to learn more about the timber industry that used to be famous in the city of Forks.
Address: 1421 S Forks Ave, Forks, WA 98331, USA
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11- Second beach
The Second Beach, with its breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and pristine coastal waters, is one of the Forks’ most alluring destinations.
However you choose to experience Second Beach, a beach is always a beautiful place.
Second Beach offers a wide range of activities.
You can set up your tent on the scenic coastline of a beach, swim in its cool waters, lie down and bask in the sun’s rays—or explore tide pools.
You can climb the sea stacks at Second Beach to get a view of the coast from above.
Second Beach is a great spot for taking pictures and enjoying the sunrise and sunset, so don’t miss out.
Address: La Push, WA 98331, USA
12- River rafting
If you don’t want to fish while on a river trip, Forks Washington is an excellent place to go rafting or kayaking. The rivers there offer beautiful landscapes and the opportunity for spotting otters—as well as lots of birds.
If you don’t have your own gear, there are many outfitters in the area that offer guided trips. This is one of the best ways to experience Washington’s wilderness.
13- Sunset Lanes
Forks’ premier bowling spot is Sunset Lanes, where you can bowl or just enjoy the ambiance.
Sunset Lanes is a bowling facility that features a restaurant, lanes for bowling, and an indoor pool where you can enjoy yourselves.
While bowling is Sunset Lanes’ main activity, you can also play pool if you get tired of rolling pins down the lane.
The snack bar at Sunset Lanes offers a wide variety of delicious snacks to enjoy while you’re enjoying the fun activities there.
A trip to Sunset Lanes is always a good idea if you’re looking for a place where you can hang out and make some memorable memories.
Address: 261 East E Street, Forks, WA 98331, USA
14- Quillayute River
Visiting the Quillayute River in Forks, WA is a great way to experience nature. This river forms when three others—the Bogachiel, Sol Duc, and Calawah Rivers—converge on the Olympic Peninsula.
The Quillayute River flows into the Pacific Ocean. The river is popular among anglers, who come to catch Coho-Salmon and other fish species found in its waters.
Swimming, canoeing, and kayaking are other water sports that can be enjoyed on this river.
This river is renowned for its water sports and recreational opportunities.
Address: Quillayute River, Forks, WA 98331, USA
15- Springer’s sport fishing
The City of Forks is a good place for fishing because it lies close to three main rivers: the Bogachiel, Sol Duc, and Calawah.
Springer’s sport fishing is a professional charter company in Forks that helps people have fun while they fish. They offer group trips as well as individualized instruction.
With Springer’s Sportfishing, you can be guided by professionals with lots of experience—common catches include Steelhead, Trout, and Salmon.
This is a friendly group of people who enjoy fishing and welcome anyone willing to learn.
The fishing trip is very affordable, and the charter will provide all the necessary equipment.
Address: 71 E Division St, Forks, WA 98331, USA
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16- Barnes Creek
Barnes Creek offers visitors a beautiful setting, with scenes so serene that it’s easy for photographers to capture special moments.
The Barnes Creek trails offer a scenic view of nature, where you can see wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of being surrounded by water.
Barnes Creek offers not only beautiful views but also a variety of outdoor activities that are enjoyable for the whole family.
You can have a picnic by the creek, go on a hike through its dense woods, or spend time just relaxing and enjoying the peaceful scenery.
So stretch your muscles and enjoy a pleasant hike in the peaceful Barnes Creek.
17- kalaloch tree
The Kalaloch Tree of Life, also known as the Tree Root Cave, is a Sitka spruce that has its roots visible due to erosion. This cave-like formation is estimated to be over 1 000 years old
It’s amazing that this tree has survived so many storms without roots to hold it in place—its entire root system must have eroded away.
To get to the Tree of Life, you will park in Kalaloch Campground parking lot. There is no cost for parking there; just follow the trail that leads down from it towards the beach. The path may be steep at times, but don’t worry—it’s short!
18- Rainforest Art Center
The Rainforest Art Center promotes the works of local artists and exhibits artistic creations from around the world.
The museum’s design is a result of community collaboration, and many elements incorporated into the Art Center were created by local residents.
High school students worked with other volunteers to build a mural out of pieces from the original barn, and they also designed an acoustic shell for the newly formed space.
The community supports the center by donating to keep it running. The art exhibits feature beautiful, remarkable works of art and also costumes and props used in Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight movie adaptation.
If you are looking for a place to further your art education or have an interest in the arts, visit the Rainforest Art Center during your next trip to Forks, WA.
Address: 35 N Forks Ave, Forks, WA 98331, USA
19- Cape flattery trail
Trailhead is on Cape Loop Road. From Bayview Avenue (Hwy 112) in Neah Bay, turn left onto Fort Street and go 3 blocks to 3rd Ave; then head right.
Drive 1 block and turn left on Cape Flattery Road. After several miles, the road turns into Cape Loop Road. Follow signs to the cape flattery Trail
The hike from the trailhead to Cape Flattery, Washington’s northernmost point, is a 20 – 30 minute 0.5-mile hike one way through typical rainforest conditions.
When you reach the end of the trail, you find several vantage points overlooking the southwest, west, and northwest. Tatoosh Island and its lighthouse are clearly visible as well as seals and otters swimming through Puget Sound—and maybe even a glimpse at some orcas or humpback whales!
20- A Shot in the Dark
Coffee is an essential drink that boosts energy, and A Shot in the Dark is a famous coffee shop where people can get some of the best brews around.
A shot in the Dark is a coffee shop that specializes in selling drinks, most notably coffee. Its menu includes White Mocha, Iced Latte, Americano—as well as many other kinds of java.
They offer more than just coffee, also selling snacks like French Toast, Granola Cup—and even sandwiches.
There is no dining room in the shop, so you get your order to go. It’s a great place for coffee before visiting sites in the city.
Some coffee experts consider this shop to serve the best coffee in town.
Address: 131 N Forks Ave, Forks, WA 98331, USA
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21- Olympic Loop State Birding Trail
Home to about 200 different species of birds and spanning 400 miles, the Olympic portion of the Washington State Birding Trail passes through deep forests as well as coastal plains. Forks is just one small stop on this trail—and Twilight fanatics should know that Bella Swan’s house was based on a real location in Forks!
The loop travels through the national park and four wildlife refuges. State parks, as well as six Native American tribes, are also included on this road trip. Some of the birds you can see include dunlin, sanderlings, western sandpipers—and in summer keep an eye out for bald eagles!
The Olympic Loop Birding Trail begins at the Nisqually River delta in Puget Sound and passes through Cape Flattery. There are 54 recommended stops along this trip.
Address: 3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA
22- Tree Root Cave
Visiting Tree Root Cave is one of the top things to do in Forks, WA. Although it’s a small tourist attraction with only one exhibit—an oddly shaped tree growing out from underneath another—it provides an interesting experience for visitors
The tree grows above ground and between two hills, so it looks like a floating miracle. Some people call the tree “the Tree of Life” because of its weird characteristics; others refer to this as the Kalaloch Tree or Runway Tree.
The tree is unique and magical, attracting many tourists. It has visible roots above the soil and appears healthy; its leaves are green.
Sitka spruce is the largest species of spruce, and it grows throughout Washington. Residents of Seattle often visit Tree Root Cave—a popular tourist destination—to spend time there and take lovely pictures.
The tree is rumored to be about 1,000 years old; because it has no roots attached to the ground and can withstand strong winds without falling over.
There is much to see in the city of Forks. One place worth checking out is The Tree Root Cave, which contains many interesting sights.
Address: Highway 101, the beach at Kalaloch campground, Forks, WA 98331, USA
23- Sol Duc Falls Hiking trail
The Sol Duc Falls hike takes visitors through a forested area and along the river past waterfalls to the final destination—the majestic Sol Duc Falls themselves.
The trail passes through a rainforest, and along the way, there is also a small waterfall you can enjoy. Hiking through this trail makes for another fun activity in Forks.
There are three main sections of the Sol Duc Falls, and hiking to them is a memorable experience. The bridge above the falls also offers lovely views.
Address: Sol Duc, WA 98331, USA
24- Pacific Pizza
Pacific Pizza is another great option on this list of things to do in Forks, WA. It’s known for its delicious pizza with a variety of toppings.
Pizzas with Alfredo sauce, spinach, pesto, and ranch chicken are just a few of the unique choices offered by Pizza Paradiso.
While this restaurant is a paradise for pizza lovers, it serves many other delicious dishes: Panini Sandwiches, Caesar salads with chicken, and Marsala.
The restaurant’s food is surprisingly affordable. Overall, this is a great place to dine in Forks, Washington—do add it to your list of things to do there!
Address: 870 S Forks Ave, Forks, WA 98331, USA
25- John’s Beachcombing Museum
John’s Beachcombing Museum is a place of interest in Forks, WA. John Anderson founded the museum after he retired as a town plumber.
The Museum collects objects that have been discarded and repurpose them into exhibits for visitors to enjoy. The founder, John Anderson spent years combing the beaches of the Pacific Northwest gathering sea glass for his collection—but decided not just keep it all at home: instead he opened a museum so others could see its beauty too!
In the 1970s, John started collecting different things like Raggedy Ann dolls and bottles with letters inside from Japanese children; these are all available as exhibits in his museum.
Visitors to the Museum can also enjoy a treasure hunt for children; visiting John’s Beachcombing Museum will let you see and learn about unique items. It is also a great place to have fun in the city!
Address: 143 Andersonville Ave, Forks, WA 98331, USA
26- Tree Graveyard
The tree graveyard is located on Rialto Beach. The beach, in turn, is at the Quillatute Riverbank in La Push. This spot also offers views of Sea Stacks—unique rock formations caused by erosion from wind and water currents over millions of years
The tree graveyard is situated along the shoreline, with large trees lying on top of each other in no particular order.
The trees had been uprooted and thrown around by powerful storms, making them appear eerily spectral. The sand on the beach was dark and contained pebbles and stones as well.
Forks’ Tree graveyard offers a unique outdoor destination for visitors to have fun and explore.
Address: Rialto Beach, La Push, Washington, 98331, USA
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Forks Washington hotels
Among the best hotels that are located here:
Is Forks Washington worth visiting?
Visiting Forks is a great way to get an appreciation of the Olympic National Park and the Twilight series. The beaches and parks in this Washington locale are fantastic for anyone visiting!
Along with outdoor activities like exploring the coast and hiking in the Olympic Peninsula, Forks is known for its amazing fishing waters, small downtown area—and as a filming location for Twilight.
What is Forks WA known for?
Our area is the largest city to get rainy in the arid USA, averaging about 130 inches of precipitation each year! Approximately 2,400 square miles are covered by more than 100 miles of sandy beaches and a few miles of valleys in the mountains.
How far is Forks to the beach?
Forks sit on a wide prairie 14 km from the seashore. The city has about 5,000 residents and many of the restaurants are located in these pleasant, rural areas.
What is in Forks in Olympic National Park?
In addition, the Forks area hosts the Forks timber museum which displays a pioneer museum, a lookout tower, and a nine-foot cooking stove from a logging camp. Join the tradition of watching the sunrise at Rialto Beach.
Is it possible to visit the town in which Twilight was set?
Yes, you can visit Forks from Twilight. In fact, there are many places in the town where scenes were shot for the movie—La Push Beach, Swan Residency (Edward’s house), and Bella’s truck. If you’re a fan of Twilight it is fun to drive around town and see all these familiar locations!
What are the best times of year to visit Forks, Washington?
The best time to visit Forks, Washington is from mid-June through mid-September. This period boasts warm temperatures and a low chance of rain—exactly what we had when visiting this area in late August!
PLACES TO STAY IN FORKS WA
Although Forks is not a big city, it still has several excellent places to stay. The following are some of the most highly rated accommodations in and around this scenic area.
Conclusion:
The City of Forks is chock-full of unexpected and unusual attractions, making it a great place to have fun. You can tour the city, visit cafés or restaurants during your stay—whatever you feel like doing while visiting.
Make a bucket list of fun things to do in Forks, WA, and enjoy your time visiting.