Elk rut peak. The rainforest going amber. The first big rains.
October is the elk rut peak and one of the best wildlife months on the peninsula. The Hoh Valley is at its most dramatic at dawn. Fall colors touch the bigleaf maples in the rainforest corridors — the trees turn amber and gold before the leaves fall. The first significant fall rain systems arrive, and the moss begins to re-saturate.
Magic window: Roosevelt Elk Rut (Sept – Oct)
The Hoh Valley supports the largest free-roaming Roosevelt elk herd in the country. In fall rut, bulls bugle at dawn and dusk in the valley meadows — one of the most primal wildlife experiences in the Pacific Northwest. September mornings on the Hoh River Trail, before the parking lot fills, are worth planning a trip around.
Conditions
Weather: 58°F high / 40°F low. Elk rut peak. Fall rains beginning. Bigleaf maple color in the rainforest.
Crowds: low
What's open
- All major areas open
- Elk rut in Hoh Valley
- Hurricane Ridge accessible through most of October
Limited or closed
- Hurricane Ridge Road may close in late October after first snow
- Some seasonal lodge properties begin closing end of October
Prioritize
Hoh Valley elk rut at dawn. The bigleaf maples in fall color — the Hoh River Trail in October is one of the most visually distinctive seasonal moments in the park. Storm King Mountain before the upper trail becomes icy.
Wellness
Sol Duc Hot Springs in fall is uncrowded and the pools are more appealing in cool weather.
Dining
Full service still available. Lake Quinault Lodge through October. Call ahead as some properties begin winter hours.
Where to stay
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort typically closes in October — check exact dates. Lake Crescent Lodge through late October.
What to pack
Warm layers. Rain gear. Waterproof boots. Binoculars.