Spend Winter in Olympic’s Quinault Rainforest

Posted by Jeff on Dec 8, 2015 @ 10:32 am in Hiking News | 0 comments | Last modified: December 8, 2015

There are few truly Pacific Northwest events that can compare to watching winter arrive in the rainforest. While many avoid the region due to the strong winds, constant downpours and occasional snow showers, there is something amazing and unique about spending time out in the wilderness of the Olympic Peninsula. Tucked away deep in Grays Harbor’s Quinault Rainforest, one of the most underrated winter experiences is waiting for you.

The Lake Quinault Lodge is an iconic lodge in the Pacific Northwest and by far the crown jewel of lodges around Olympic National Park. Built in 1926, the Lake Quinault Lodge is probably most famous for hosting President Franklin Delano Roosevelt for a lunch as he toured the area that would later be Olympic National Park. In 1937, he traveled around the Peninsula, enjoying the towering trees and solitude of wilderness found along the shores of Lake Quinault. It is rumored that, while dining on a meal overlooking Lake Quinault, FDR made his decision to protect the land for good.

Those who do make their way to the Quinault are greeted with eagles, elk, salmon and bears, as well as access to incredible trails and majestic views. In the summer, the area can be crowded and full, but the winter months give those searching for solitude, isolation and beauty the ultimate gift.

Throughout the entire year, incredible views of Lake Quinault and the Quinault Rainforest are just a few feet from the lodge doors. Yet, true solitude is only found here in the offseason. Lake Quinault Lodge in the winter gives you a wealth of exploration mere seconds from relaxing in front of a large fireplace. With 13 miles of trails waiting just outside, accessing and exploring the Quinault Rainforest doesn’t get any easier than at the lodge.

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