16 AWESOME Things to Do in Forks, Washington
Not sure about all the things to do in Forks, Washington?
We get it, it’s not exactly on the top of everyon’es radar. Yet here you are…
Located in the heart of the Olympic Peninsula, this charming town has piqued the curiosity of travelers.
Whether that’s due to the Twilight saga or you feel like you need to stop here while exploring Olympic National Park, we got you!
Table of Contents
- 1. Learn About Logging at the Forks Timber Museum
- 2. Explore the Unique World at John’s Beachcombing Museum
- 3. Take a Twilight Tour
- 4. Discover Bigfoot at Sasquatch The Legend Gift Shop
- 5. Escape into Nature at Elk Creek Conservation Area Trail
- 6. Head Out on the Calawah River
- 7. Visit Bogachiel State Park
- 8. Trek into the Hoh Rainforest
- 9. Experience the La Push Beaches
- 10. Explore Rialto Beach and the Hole in the Wall Trail
- 11. Wander Ruby and Kalaloch Beaches
- 12. Discover Beaver Falls
- 13. Relax at Lake Crescent
- 14. Visit Sol Duc Falls
- 15. Take a Day Trip to Hurricane Ridge
- 16. Explore Port Angeles
1. Learn About Logging at the Forks Timber Museum
Step back in time at the Forks Timber Museum. This museum pays homage to the town’s logging history, featuring exhibits on early settlers, the evolution of logging techniques, and the daily life of loggers. It’s a small but cool exploration of the region’s backbone industry.
2. Explore the Unique World at John’s Beachcombing Museum
There’s a unique world of beachcombing at John’s Beachcombing Museum. This fascinating collection showcases artifacts, glass floats, driftwood, and treasures all gathered from local beaches.
A visit here offers a glimpse into the ocean’s mysterious ways and the stories carried ashore. Check this weird place out for an easy $5! Just note they have very limited hours and close in winter.
3. Take a Twilight Tour
For Twilight fans, the Twilight Tour is a dream come true. Explore key locations from the beloved saga, including Bella’s house, truck, and the iconic Forks High School!
It’s a fun tour that brings the story to life, surrounded by the very landscapes that inspired Stephenie Meyer. It’s really what put this town on the map… as tiny and humble as it is!
4. Discover Bigfoot at Sasquatch The Legend Gift Shop
Celebrate the legend of Bigfoot at Sasquatch The Legend Gift Shop. This quirky store offers an array of Sasquatch-themed souvenirs, from t-shirts to mugs, making it a fun stop for believers and skeptics alike.
5. Escape into Nature at Elk Creek Conservation Area Trail
Elk Creek Conservation Area Trail is a cool escape into nature just outside of Forks.
This easy-to-navigate trail winds through lush forests and alongside babbling creeks, offering peaceful views and a chance to spot local wildlife, including the majestic elk.
6. Head Out on the Calawah River
Adventure awaits on the waters with a boat launch in town for boats and kayaks. Paddle along the serene Calawah River, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Olympic Peninsula.
It’s an ideal activity for those looking to have some fun out on the water. You can find the boat launch right here.
7. Visit Bogachiel State Park
Bogachiel State Park is a gateway to outdoor adventure. With camping facilities, hiking trails, and fishing spots, it’s a perfect base for exploring the surrounding wilderness.
We will be the first to admit it’s not the most exciting state park in Washington, however, its location? It’s incredible!
It’s just moments from Forks as well as some of the other things to do in Olympic National Park you’ll see below.
8. Trek into the Hoh Rainforest
The Hoh Rainforest is a must-see with its towering moss-covered trees and vibrant ecosystem.
This temperate rainforest offers trails like the Hall of Mosses, showcasing the area’s stunning biodiversity.
It’s a place where nature’s beauty is on full display. It’s one of the most famous things to do in Forks and it’s less than an hour away.
9. Experience the La Push Beaches
The La Push Beaches are a breathtaking coastal wonder. Famous for their dramatic sea stacks and rugged beauty, these beaches offer stunning sunset views and opportunities for beachcombing, photography, and relaxation.
The connection to the Twilight saga adds an extra layer of mystique. There are actually three La Push beaches here. Beach 1 is easy and can be seen from the parking area, but Beaches 2 and 3 require a short hike.
Grab a camping permit, and you can wake up on the shores of La Push Beaches, too.
10. Explore Rialto Beach and the Hole in the Wall Trail
Rialto Beach offers dramatic ocean views, with the Hole in the Wall Trail providing a memorable hike. Trek to the iconic sea-carved archway for an unforgettable sight.
It’s a place where the power and beauty of the Pacific Ocean are palpable. Make sure to come at low tide so you can spot sea critters in the nooks and crannies of the rocks.
11. Wander Ruby and Kalaloch Beaches
Kalaloch and Ruby Beaches are renowned for their natural beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities. With tide pools, driftwood, and sweeping views, they’re ideal for a day of exploration and relaxation.
Ruby Beach is famed for its picturesque sea stacks. You can spend a whole day exploring these beaches as there are four Kalaloch beaches in total, Ruby Beach, and don’t miss out on the Tree of Life either.
12. Discover Beaver Falls
Beaver Falls is a bit of a hidden gem, yet it’s very accessible. You’ll get a small yet impressive cascading waterfall set against a lush backdrop. It’s a great thing to do in Forks and is only 15 minutes north of the town!
13. Relax at Lake Crescent
Lake Crescent is a deep, glacially carved lake known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain surroundings.
The lake is perfect for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. It also features several hiking trails along its shores, including the popular Marymere Falls trail and Mount Storm King trail.
This is a don’t-miss spot while exploring Olympic and is easily accessible from Forks.
14. Visit Sol Duc Falls
Sol Duc Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Olympic National Park, known for its powerful flow and picturesque setting.
This is the best waterfall near Forks! A relatively easy hike leads you through ancient forests to a viewing platform where you can witness the falls splitting into multiple channels as they cascade into a lush ravine.
On your way out, don’t miss the short but sweet Ancient Grove trail and the flopping salmon at Salmon Cascades.
15. Take a Day Trip to Hurricane Ridge
Hurricane Ridge provides some of the most accessible and breathtaking mountain views in Olympic National Park.
A short drive from Port Angeles but nearly two hours from Forks, this spot makes for a good day trip. It offers panoramic vistas of the Olympic Mountains, meadows filled with wildflowers, and opportunities to spot wildlife.
With a range of trails, from easy paved paths to more challenging hikes, you can spend all day wandering the trail, enjoying views from the visitor center, and maybe even popping by Port Angeles on the way back.
16. Explore Port Angeles
A short drive from Forks (only about an hour), Port Angeles serves as a gateway to the Olympic Peninsula. With dining, shopping, and access to the Olympic National Park, it’s a vibrant community worth exploring.
It’s definitely a bit more happening than Forks and has more amenities and such. It’s also right on the water if you want to gaze out at the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
👉 Accommodation in Forks
We hope this helped you find the best things to do in Forks for your trip!
