Lake Quinault

Lake Quinault lies on the southwest edge of the Olympic Peninsula, a glacial lake framed by rain forest, with the Quinault Rain Forest spreading up the river valley behind it. The area is some of the wettest in the lower 48 states, with rainfall around 12 feet a year in the surrounding mountains, and the lushness shows: moss-covered maples, huge Sitka spruce, western red cedar and waterfalls cascading beside the road. The lake's north shore falls in Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park, and the south shore is part of the Quinault Indian Reservation. A scenic loop drive of roughly 31 miles circles the lake, passing forest trails, historic buildings and small communities.

The lodge is the heart of the visit. Lake Quinault Lodge, opened in 1926, is a cedar-shingled building with a large fireplace in the lobby, a sunroom overlooking the lake and a long lawn sloping to the water. President Franklin Roosevelt visited in 1937 as part of the trip that preceded the creation of Olympic National Park. Even if you do not stay, stopping for a drink or a meal and a walk along the shore gives a feel for the old-style park lodges.

Short trails make the rain forest accessible. The Quinault Rain Forest Nature Loop is a half-mile loop through moss-draped trees, and the Maple Glade trail is another easy walk. Several routes lead to waterfalls, and the Graves Creek and Enchanted Valley trails begin farther up the valley for those who want to hike deeper.

Near the lake, a large Sitka spruce known as the Big Spruce Tree is among the largest of its kind, and a short trail leads to it. Check with the ranger station or visitor information for current trail conditions, as storms often cause blowdowns and washouts.

On the water, kayaks and canoes are available in season, and fishing is allowed with the appropriate permits. Birdwatchers can look for bald eagles, herons and a variety of waterfowl. The Quinault Indian Nation manages the south shore, and visitors should follow posted rules and respect tribal lands. Local businesses on the south shore offer lodging, groceries and supplies.

Plan to arrive with fuel and groceries, as services are limited. The area is about three hours from Olympia, around four from Seattle and roughly an hour south of Kalaloch. It makes a natural overnight stop on a loop of the peninsula, coupled with the Hoh to the north and the Pacific coast beaches to the west. Rain is likely at any time of year, so pack waterproof gear and make a plan for gray days, such as a lodge fire, a book and hot chocolate.

If you are traveling with children, the lodge offers a relaxed base, with a games room and a lawn, and the short nature loops are easy to complete in an hour. Junior ranger activities are typically available at ranger stations in the national park, and the forest feels like a storybook setting to many kids. If the weather turns, the nearby communities have small stores and cafes, and a drive along the lake with the windshield wipers on is part of the experience.