Olympic National Park

For much of the 20th century, the city's economy was fueled by the local timber industry. Forks later became a tourism destination for visitors to Olympic National Park, recreational sport fishing in nearby rivers, and fans of the novel series Twilight and films, which are set in Forks. The town is also near the Clallam Bay Corrections Center and Olympic Corrections Center.

The most popular day hike at Lake Crescent is the 0.9 mile (1.4 km) one way trail to Marymere Falls. This trail goes through old growth forest to a 90-foot (27 meter) waterfall. The trail starts from the Storm King Ranger Station but can also be accessed from Lake Crescent Lodge

The Hoh Rain Forest, pronounced "Hoe", earns its name from the ever-flowing Hoh River that carves its way from Mount Olympus towards the Pacific Coast. The Hoh Rain Forest is located in the stretch of the Pacific Northwest rainforest which once spanned the Pacific coast from southeastern Alaska to the central coast of California. The Hoh is one of the finest remaining examples of temperate rainforest in the United States and is one of the park's most popular destinations.

Port Angeles serves as a charming gateway to Olympic National Park, with its busy waterfront, ferry terminal to Victoria BC, and historic downtown district. This working harbor town offers stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and snow-capped Olympic Mountains, while providing essential services for park visitors.

Area activities include fishing (with permit from the Quinaults), scenic drives (a loop around the lake is longer than 30 miles (48 km)), and hiking. The southern side of the lake features a system of short hiking trails maintained by the U.S. Forest Service that are accessible to casual day hikers.

Lake Crescent is known for brilliant blue waters and exceptional clarity caused by low levels of nitrogen in the water that inhibit the growth of algae.

The beach was named "Rialto" by the famous magician Claude Alexander Conlin after the Rialto theater chain. Conlin had a home in the 1920s at Mora, overlooking the beach and ocean, until it burned in the 1930s leaving no trace as of 1967. Rialto Beach also features a tree graveyard, with hundreds of tree trunks deposited by storms. Hole-in-the-Wall is a rock arch near Rialto Beach, and is a popular attraction. It was formed by erosion from the sea surf and waves.

Like virtually all beaches on the northern coast, Ruby Beach has a tremendous amount of driftwood. It is notable for the number of sea stacks there. The beach is so called because of the ruby-like crystals in the beach sand. Destruction Island is located about 4 miles southwest off the beach. The island and the Destruction Island Lighthouse can be seen from the beach.

Hurricane Ridge is the most easily accessed mountain area within Olympic National Park. In clear weather, fantastic views can be enjoyed throughout the year. Hurricane Ridge is located 17 miles south of Port Angeles on Hurricane Ridge Road, off Mount Angeles Road. The road is open throughout summer. During the winter season, the road is scheduled to be open Friday through Sunday and holiday Mondays, weather and road conditions permitting, and closed all other days. All vehicles must carry tire chains during the winter season.

Kalaloch is a great place for bird watching. Western gulls, bald eagles, and other coastal birds can be spotted nesting and feeding along the southern coast. When hiking the coast, always check the tides (current charts available at the Kalaloch Information Station). Certain areas may become impassable during high tides and overland trails must be used. Campgrounds at Kalaloch and South Beach are the only places to camp on the southern coast of Olympic National Park.

There are many big trees in the Olympics, but this enormous cedar is so large it has a trail named after it. Plus, it's just a quarter mile from the road. Unfortunately, storms in 2016 felled the large tree, though it's no less impressive.

Madison Falls is a stunning 60-foot waterfall near the Elwha River. It's also one of the most accessible destinations at the park, making it a great stop for families and visitors of all abilities. Stop at the parking area for a great view of the Elwha River. The Elwha is the Olympic Peninsula's largest watershed, and home to salmon and trout. For millenia, the Klallam people relied on fish nurtured by the Elwha River watershed. But two dams on the river constructed in 1913 and 1927 were built without fish passage, meaning that thousands of salmon could no longer reach the Elwha Valley. After careful planning, both dams were removed in 2014. Within months of the dams' removal, salmon were spawning in the park for the first time in 100 years.

Ocean Shores is the perfect destination for fun with the family, a romantic weekend, or a relaxing solo getaway. This charming ocean city is known for its long Pacific beach and fresh seafood.