Quinault Rain Forest

Leaving the beach area that stretches south from Ruby to Beach 1, continue on 101 to North Shore Road through the Quinault Rain Forest onto South Shore Road for a stunning 30-mile loop around Lake Quinault. This loop—admittedly not well marked—crosses the Quinault River and meanders through beautifully unspoiled sections of rain forest. The road gets pretty rugged—unpaved and out-and-out rocky in sections—but if you’re up for the adventure, you won’t regret the trip. If you prefer to explore on foot, there are many marvelous possibilities. Begin by stopping at the ranger station situated on the side of the road on the south shore of Lake Quinault. Here you can pick up information, maps, and suggestions from the rangers about the well marked paths that weave deep into the forest. One of our favorites is the Quinault Loop Trail, which begins across the road from the Lake Quinault Lodge. Another of our favorites is the Kestner Homestead Trail that begins on the north side of the lake. Again, there is a ranger station located nearby. Stop here first to pick up a map and ask the ranger for his trail suggestions. This path winds beneath towering maple trees, traverses a sparkling creek, and passes by an abandoned homestead, once owned by early pioneers, the Kestner family (you can see their photos in the ranger station which is located where the trail begins).