Five Mile Island

For Washington locals yearning to truly immerse themselves in the raw, majestic beauty of a temperate rainforest, Five Mile Island offers an iconic and accessible wilderness experience within Olympic National Park. Located along the world-renowned Hoh River Trail, near Forks, WA, this isn't a conventional drive-up campground with extensive facilities. Instead, Five Mile Island is a designated backcountry camping area, revered by hikers as both a fantastic day-hike destination and a tranquil spot for an overnight stay, providing an authentic taste of the Olympic Peninsula's unparalleled natural grandeur.

This article will guide you through the essence of Five Mile Island, detailing its unique location, the minimalist services it offers, its breathtaking features, and why it stands out as an ideal choice for Washington residents seeking a genuine connection with nature, whether for a day trip or a secluded overnight adventure.

Five Mile Island is a backcountry campsite situated approximately five miles into the Hoh River Trail, within Olympic National Park, near Forks, WA 98331, USA. It is not directly accessible by vehicle. To reach this serene spot, visitors must embark on a beautiful hike from the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center, which serves as the trailhead for the Hoh River Trail.

The Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center is accessible by car via Upper Hoh Road from US Highway 101, which is manageable from various parts of Washington. However, it's crucial to note that during peak summer months (typically 10 AM to 5 PM), there can be very long waits at the entrance gate to the Hoh Rainforest area, sometimes up to two hours. Planning your arrival for earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can help mitigate these delays. Once you begin your hike from the Visitor Center, the trail to Five Mile Island is described as a "lovely flat hike" through the temperate rainforest, with only "a little bit of uphill and downhill," making it an achievable distance for "inexperienced hikers or families." The trail is well-groomed and follows the "steely blue water of the Hoh River," offering stunning views and multiple tributary crossings along the way. For overnight stays at Five Mile Island, a wilderness permit is required from Olympic National Park.

As a wilderness camping area, Five Mile Island provides only essential, low-impact services, emphasizing self-sufficiency and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.

• Designated Campsites: Five Mile Island offers established, informal campsites, typically clearings within the forest or on the gravel bar itself, suitable for pitching tents. These are designed to concentrate impact and protect the sensitive rainforest environment. While often private, during peak summer, the area can get crowded with overnight campers.
• Vault Toilets/Privies: There is typically at least one pit toilet or privy available at Five Mile Island for waste disposal. There is also a restroom at the parking lot/trailhead before you begin your hike.
• Bear Wires/Food Storage: The area is known for wildlife, including elk, deer, and potentially bears and coyotes. Bear wires are available for hanging food and scented items, and their use is highly recommended or mandatory. Proper food storage is crucial to protect both human visitors and wildlife.
• No Potable Water Source: Five Mile Island does not have a source of potable water (like a spigot). Campers must be prepared to filter or treat water from natural sources, such as the Hoh River or nearby creeks. Carrying a reliable water filter or purification method is essential.
• Fire Rings (Check Restrictions): Some sites at Five Mile Island may have existing fire rings. However, campfires are often restricted or prohibited in Olympic National Park's wilderness areas, especially above certain elevations or during high fire danger. It is imperative to check current fire regulations with the National Park Service before your trip. Propane stoves are generally permitted for cooking.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: All visitors are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles, which means carrying out all trash, food waste, and any other items you bring in.

• Iconic Hoh Rainforest Experience: Five Mile Island is nestled within the legendary Hoh Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the finest examples of temperate rainforest in the United States. The trail to the island winds through a magical landscape of colossal old-growth trees draped in vibrant mosses and ferns, creating an unparalleled immersive experience.
• Perfect Day Hike Destination: For those not looking for an overnight trip, Five Mile Island serves as an excellent 5-mile (one-way) turnaround point for a rewarding day hike. It offers a "great shady beach" or "meadow-like spot formed by a huge gravel bar" ideal for a snack or lunch, providing views up the valley.
• Hoh River Views and Access: The site is located directly on the Hoh River, a "steely blue" glacial river. The soothing sound of the river is a constant companion, and the gravel bars offer easy access to the water's edge.
• Family and Beginner Friendly: The "lovely flat hike" with "minimal elevation gain" makes the trail to Five Mile Island suitable for "inexperienced hikers or families," making it an accessible wilderness adventure for many.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The Hoh Rainforest is home to abundant wildlife. Visitors commonly see Roosevelt elk, deer, and various bird species. While rare, black bears and coyotes are also present, emphasizing the need for proper food storage.
• Photographic Opportunities: The dense, moss-laden forest and the picturesque Hoh River provide endless opportunities for stunning nature photography.
• Gateway to Deeper Backcountry: For experienced backpackers, Five Mile Island can serve as a stepping stone to even more remote parts of the Hoh River Trail, leading to destinations like Olympus Guard Station and eventually the Blue Glacier on Mount Olympus (though this is a much more strenuous multi-day trip).

Address: Forks, WA 98331, USA (within Olympic National Park, accessed via the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center)

As a wilderness campsite, there is no direct phone number for Five Mile Island itself. All inquiries and wilderness permit reservations should be directed through the official channels for Olympic National Park:

Olympic National Park Wilderness Information Center: (360) 565-3130 or (360) 565-3100

Wilderness permits are required for all overnight stays in the wilderness year-round and are available by advanced reservation through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to plan your trip well in advance, especially for popular seasons, and to check the National Park Service website for the latest conditions, trail closures, fire restrictions, and any alerts regarding wait times at the Hoh Rainforest entrance.

For Washington locals, Five Mile Island offers a quintessential Olympic National Park experience that is both accessible and profoundly immersive. It strikes a perfect balance between a challenging backcountry adventure and a manageable day trip, making it suitable for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, from families with young children to seasoned hikers seeking solitude.

Its location within the iconic Hoh Rainforest means that locals can easily access one of the world's most unique ecosystems without having to travel across the country. The "lovely flat hike" along the Hoh River Trail provides a relatively easy entry point into a true wilderness setting, allowing even those new to backpacking to experience the magic of an old-growth rainforest and the serenity of riverside camping. The availability of basic amenities like vault toilets and bear wires, while minimalist, supports responsible wilderness use and ensures a safer experience.

Five Mile Island is more than just a camping spot; it's a destination that allows Washingtonians to disconnect from urban life and reconnect with the pristine natural beauty of their state. Whether it's for a peaceful lunch break during a day hike or a quiet overnight stay under the stars, this area offers a rejuvenating escape. It's a reminder of the incredible natural treasures in our backyard, providing a unique opportunity to build outdoor skills, appreciate the delicate balance of the rainforest, and create lasting memories in one of Washington's most cherished landscapes.

Five Mile Island

Forks, WA 98331, USA