Mountaineering · YDS Class 3

Hoh River Trail / Blue Glacier

Distance RT
45.0 mi
Gain
7,077 ft
High Point
7,979 ft
Duration
72 hrs
Best Months
Jun, Jul, Aug
Trailhead
Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center
577 ft elevation
Drive 19 miles south from US-101 on Upper Hoh Road to the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center. Olympic National Park entrance fee required. Wilderness permit required for overnight camping.
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Permit Required

Olympic National Park entrance fee + wilderness camping permit required. Permits available at Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center.

The standard route on Mount Olympus, one of the most remote summit routes in Washington. The approach alone is 17 miles through old-growth rainforest along the Hoh River before the real climbing begins on the Blue Glacier — one of the most studied glaciers in North America.

Route Description

From the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center (578 ft), hike 17 miles up the Hoh River Trail to Glacier Meadows (4,200 ft) — typically two days. From Glacier Meadows, ascend the moraine to the Blue Glacier, rope up and navigate the crevassed icefall, gain the Snow Dome, and continue to the summit pinnacle (7,980 ft) requiring Class 3 scrambling.

Approach

Drive to the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center in Olympic National Park. The approach trail is well-maintained but 17 miles each way — plan for 3-5 days total. Wilderness permit required for overnight camping.

Descent

Descend the ascent route. The Blue Glacier approach changes significantly through the season as snow melts. Rockfall on the summit pinnacle is a hazard.

Weather Forecast
7-Day Forecast
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46° / 33°
18%
💧0.01"
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Sat, Oct 10
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Fog
38° / 22°
8%
💨6
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