Quick Facts
- Location: Western Olympic Peninsula, Washington
- Region: Clallam County
- Time Needed: Half day to full day
- Admission: Free
- Facilities: Full town services, hotels, restaurants
- Best Season: Year-round (expect rain)
- Dog Friendly: Yes
Info
Getting There
From Port Angeles: 1 hour 15 minutes west on US-101. From Seattle: approximately 4 hours via US-101 around the peninsula.
Get Directions via Google Maps
Weather
One of the rainiest towns in the US—over 3,500 mm (140") annually.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Forks?
Forks is a historic logging town on Washington's Olympic Peninsula, famous worldwide as the setting for the Twilight book and film series. Beyond its pop culture fame, Forks serves as a gateway to the Hoh Rain Forest and is surrounded by pristine temperate rainforest wilderness.
Where is Forks located?
Forks is located on the western Olympic Peninsula, approximately 90 km (55 miles) west of Port Angeles along US-101. The town sits in the heart of the rainforest region, receiving over 3,500 mm (140 inches) of rain annually.
How do I get to Forks?
From Port Angeles, drive west on US-101 for approximately 90 km (55 miles), about 1 hour 15 minutes. From Seattle, drive west via US-101 around the Olympic Peninsula—approximately 290 km (180 miles) and 4 hours.
What is Forks famous for?
Forks gained worldwide fame as the setting for Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series. Fans visit filming locations and themed attractions. The town also has a rich logging heritage and serves as the primary gateway to the Hoh Rain Forest.
What is there to do in Forks?
Visit Twilight-themed attractions and film locations, explore the Hoh Rain Forest (30 minutes east), access La Push and Rialto Beach (30 minutes west), and learn about logging history at the Forks Timber Museum.
When is the best time to visit Forks?
Forks can be visited year-round, but expect rain at any time. Summer is slightly drier with more crowds. Fall and winter bring dramatic weather and fewer visitors.
Is there cell service in Forks?
Yes, cell service is available in Forks but becomes limited in surrounding wilderness areas including the Hoh Rain Forest.
What services are available in Forks?
Forks has hotels, motels, restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, and visitor services. It's the largest town on the western Olympic Peninsula.
How far is the Hoh Rain Forest from Forks?
The Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center is approximately 50 km (31 miles) south of Forks, about 45 minutes drive via US-101 and Upper Hoh Road.
Why is Forks so rainy?
Forks sits in the path of Pacific storms that drop moisture as they hit the Olympic Mountains. The town receives over 3,500 mm (140 inches) of rain annually, making it one of the wettest places in the contiguous United States.
Is Forks worth visiting without Twilight interest?
Absolutely! Forks is the most convenient base for exploring the Hoh Rain Forest, Olympic coastal beaches, and the temperate rainforest wilderness. The logging history and small-town atmosphere are interesting in their own right.
What should I bring when visiting Forks?
Rain gear is essential year-round. Bring layers, waterproof shoes or boots, and a camera. Even in summer, be prepared for wet weather.
