Dogs are not permitted on most Olympic National Park trails, including this one. Check current regulations at Hoh Visitor Center before bringing pets.

Maple Grove Off Hall of Mosses - Short Walk

Q: Is this safe to do alone?

Yes, if you're capable of a short walk and aware of your surroundings. Tell someone where you're going. Cell service is spotty; don't rely on it for emergencies. Make noise for wildlife.

Q: Do I need hiking boots?

Not essential, but waterproof boots are strongly recommended. This forest floor is perpetually muddy and slippery. Good traction prevents twisted ankles and soaked feet.

Q: How crowded is this trail?

Much less crowded than Hall of Mosses main loop. You'll likely encounter fewer than 10 people, especially on weekdays or shoulder seasons.

Q: What's the best time to visit?

October-November for fall maple colors and slightly drier conditions. Avoid early winter (December-January) when mud is heaviest. Summer weekends mean parking chaos.

Q: What if it's raining?

Rain is normal here. Short walk + good rain gear = manageable day. Heavy rain or fog can reduce visibility. Skip only if lightning threatens.

Maple Grove off the Hall of Mosses Trail

Distance

1 mi

Elevation Gain

50 ft

Est. Time

30-45 minutes

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Late spring through early fall (May–September) for most stable conditions

Overview

About This Trail

A short detour from the Hall of Mosses loop branches to a grove of massive big leaf maple trees. This is an easy walk requiring no special fitness or gear. The trail is well-suited for families and those seeking a quick forest experience without committing to a longer hike.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

Ancient big leaf maple trees dominate both sides of the path, often 6+ feet in diameter. Thick moss coating trunks and rocks creates a primordial forest atmosphere. Perfect for photography and experiencing old-growth Pacific Northwest temperate rainforest.

Insider Tips

• This side path is easily skipped if time is tight—most visitors stick to Hall of Mosses main loop. You'll encounter fewer people. • Big leaf maples shine October-November; visit then for fall color reward. • Start at Hall of Mosses loop by 6:30 AM if you're targeting summer weekends to guarantee parking. • The forest floor is perennially muddy; gaiters protect your socks and boots from splatter. • Pause mid-walk to look up; most hikers fixate on footing and miss the canopy drama overhead.

Best Season to Hike

Late spring through early fall (May–September) for most stable conditions

Hiking Tips

Bring a rain jacket—this is rainforest country; afternoon showers common.
Wear waterproof boots; mud and wet surfaces are constant.
Start early (before 10 AM) to avoid congestion at Hall of Mosses trailhead.
Make noise; elk and deer frequent the Hoh area. Stay alert and don't approach wildlife.
Carry 1-2L water even on short walks; dehydration sneaks up in cool, wet climates.

Family Info

Excellent for families with school-age children. Length and flat terrain suit young hikers. No reported steep drops or hazardous ledges. Very young children may struggle with muddy/slippery conditions; traction matters. Constant supervision recommended near any deadfall or unstable roots.

What Hikers Say

Hikers regard this as an easy, worthwhile detour from Hall of Mosses that sees far lighter traffic than the main loop. Most report the massive maple trees are worth the small time investment. Noted hazards: slippery surfaces when wet, which is most of the year in the Hoh.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1 miles

Elevation Gain: 50 ft

Duration: 30-45 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Dirt and roots with muddy, wet sections common

Getting There

Trailhead: Branches from Hall of Mosses Loop trailhead, Hoh River Road

Parking: 50-60 vehicles (main Hall of Mosses lot; shared trailhead)

Fills Up: 9 AM on summer weekends; 10-11 AM on weekdays

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

None required

Fees: Entrance - Private Vehicle: $30.00 — Valid for seven consecutive days (NPS API, as of 2026-06-12)

Shuttle Available

No shuttle service; drive to Hall of Mosses trailhead parking

Trail Rules

Dogs: Not allowed on most Olympic National Park trails; check current regulations at visitor center

Biking: Not allowed; foot traffic only

Trail Markers: Well-maintained and marked; easy to follow

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No water sources on trail; carry all water you need

Shade: Fully shaded under dense forest canopy

Cell Service: Spotty to no cell service; do not rely on communications for emergencies

Hazards:

Rainforest conditions mean perpetually wet surfaces. Moss-covered roots and rocks are extremely slippery, especially after rain. Deadfall occasionally blocks sections. Weather can deteriorate quickly; fog rolls in with minimal warning. Standard wildlife precautions apply (bears, elk, deer present in area).

Emergency: Call 911 or contact Hoh Visitor Center (approximately 0.5 miles from trailhead via Hoh River Road). Nearest ranger station: Hoh River Ranger Station.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Light to moderate; much less crowded than Hall of Mosses main loop

Peak Times: Summer weekends (July-August); early mornings and weekdays are quieter

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Flat forest walk with no stairs or steep grades. Muddy, wet conditions may challenge hikers with mobility limitations. No wheelchair-accessible features reported.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Hall of Mosses trailhead has parking and restroom facilities. Hoh Visitor Center approximately 0.5 miles away via Hoh River Road (offers water, restrooms, ranger information). No food or supplies on-trail.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Can my kids do this?

Yes. It's short and flat with no hazardous drops or scrambling. Keep an eye on footing when wet; this is slippery terrain. Most kids 5+ handle it fine.

Is this safe to do alone?

Do I need hiking boots?

How crowded is this trail?

Can I bring my dog?

What's the best time to visit?

What if it's raining?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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