Hoko Falls
Washington • Olympic National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Hoko Falls
Hoko Falls sits in Clallam County within Olympic National Park, where a small but picturesque cascade tumbles along the Hoko River amid mossy, forested banks. Its modest drop and tranquil setting make it an appealing destination for hikers and photographers who want a peaceful riverside spot without venturing far from the trailhead. The setting feels intimate and wooded — a quiet taste of the park’s natural scenery. Access to the falls is via a park-managed out-and-back trail of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. The path is short enough for a half-day outing but includes some uphill sections; footing can be uneven or muddy after wet weather, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Families and day-hikers who don’t mind a brief climb will find Hoko Falls a rewarding and easily reached destination within Olympic National Park.
The Setting
Hoko Falls sits at 121 feet within Olympic National Park, fed by the Hoko River, in the coastal lowlands of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Hoko Falls is an out-and-back approximately 2.4 miles in length with about 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The route starts near the roadside and follows park forest trails to a viewing area above the small cascade; expect uneven, sometimes muddy footing after rain. Wear sturdy shoes, allow extra time for short uphill sections and photography, and plan this as a relaxed half-day hike inside Olympic National Park.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Hoko Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hoko Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the water flow is typically stronger due to seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Olympic National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks and uneven ground near the falls. Avoid getting too close to the edge of the water. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
37 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
0.95 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge HOKO RIVER NEAR SEKIU, WA (6 km away).
Today
Roaring
40 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
41 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
41 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
43 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
51 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
50 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
50 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early January to late January, peaking in January.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Sekiu hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The ground through the falls loses about 169 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 124 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 131 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 42 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 124 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 169 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Hoko Falls is located off Hoko-Ozette Road in Clallam County, Washington. The falls are accessible by a short walk from the road, making it a convenient stop for travelers in the area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited roadside parking available near the falls. Visitors should ensure they park safely and avoid blocking the road.
Elevation
121 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.200210° N, -124.431413° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or after rainfall to see the falls at their fullest. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the water. There are no facilities nearby, so plan accordingly.
Where to Stay
Waterfront Sekiu Escape - 9 Mi to Neah Bay!
Forks Riverside Serenity
Curley's Resort & Dive Center
A Relaxing Getaway SolDuc 1
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Klahowya Campground
17.5 miles away · 0 sites
Adjacent to the south shore of the Sol Duc River, the rain forest setting hosts an accessible interpretive nature trail, fishing, picnicking, and trails to explore the natural beauty. During the summer when the river is low water, there is tubing or float run between the 'Day Use' areas next to Sites 9 and 45.Interpretive programs are presented in the amphitheater during the summer.
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Hoko Falls, Washington on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Hoko River State Park and the Makah Indian Reservation, which offers cultural and historical sites.
Wildlife
The area around Hoko Falls is home to various bird species and small mammals. Visitors may also spot salmon in the Hoko River during spawning season.
Nearby Waterfalls
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