Things To Do
in Forks
Forks is a small town located in the state of Washington, United States. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, surrounded by lush forests and situated near Olympic National Park. The town gained popularity after being featured in the Twilight book series as the fictional home of the vampire Edward Cullen.
Visitors flock to Forks to explore the nearby beaches, rainforests, and to immerse themselves in the mystical atmosphere of the Pacific Northwest.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Forks Timber Museum to learn about the town's logging history. Grab a coffee at a local café before heading out to explore the nearby nature trails.
After lunch, hike the Hoh Rainforest and appreciate its lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Don't forget your camera; the scenery is truly breathtaking.
Wind down with a visit to a local diner for some hearty Pacific Northwest cuisine. You might even catch a glimpse of a stunning sunset over the Olympic Mountains.
Begin your day at La Push Beach, where you can enjoy the serene ocean views and perhaps spot some sea otters. Take a leisurely walk along the shoreline to soak in the beauty.
Return to Forks for lunch, then head out for a guided kayaking tour on the Quillayute River. Paddle through calm waters surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Relax at a cozy local pub with live music and a delicious dinner. It's the perfect way to end an active day in nature.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic natural beauty with proximity to Olympic National Park and the Pacific Ocean
- Small-town charm with a close-knit community
- Rich history as a major logging town and connections to local Native American culture
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping
- Mild climate compared to other regions in the Pacific Northwest
- Limited job opportunities outside of tourism and forestry
- Potential for isolation due to its remote location
- Services and amenities may be lacking compared to larger cities
- Higher cost of living relative to local wages
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and specialists
Best Activities in Forks
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore diverse ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes through the extensive network of trails in the Olympic National Park, just a short drive from Forks.
Try your hand at fishing in the nearby rivers and streams, where you can catch salmon and other fish during the appropriate seasons.
Paddle through the beautiful rivers and lakes in the region, experiencing the stunning scenery and potential wildlife sightings.
Visit the iconic beaches of La Push, where you can relax, search for unique shells, and enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean.
Take part in guided tours or hike on your own to spot a variety of wildlife, including elk, black bears, and numerous bird species.
Set up camp in the numerous campgrounds available in and around Forks to fully immerse yourself in nature.
Enjoy a road trip along the coastline or through the forested areas, featuring stunning views of mountains, rivers, and ocean.
Pack a picnic and enjoy it by the riverbanks, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and scenic views.
Places to Visit in Forks
Visit one of these nice places.
This popular beach offers breathtaking views of sea stacks and dramatic coastline, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Located in Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge provides stunning panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and the surrounding valleys.
Known for its iconic sea stack formations and beautiful coastal scenery, Second Beach is a must-visit for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Forks
Forks Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Forks specialty, this dish features salmon slow-cooked on cedar planks, enhancing its natural flavor. Try it at the Quillayute River Resort or the In Place
Must-Try!
Made with fresh Dungeness crab from the nearby waters, these crab cakes are a local delicacy. Visit Sully's Drive-In or Pacific Pizza for a taste.
Indulge in a decadent dessert made with rich, locally-sourced chocolate. The Rialto Beach Resort is known for serving a delightful version of this treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This local market offers a variety of fresh produce, locally-caught seafood, and ready-to-eat snacks ideal for exploring the area.
During the summer months, the Forks Street Fair showcases an array of street food vendors offering everything from fresh seafood to international fare.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Forks is located near the territories of Native American tribes such as the Quileute and Hoh. It's important to learn about and respect their traditions and customs. Engaging with their cultural events and respecting sacred sites contributes to a positive relationship.
In Forks, people value direct but respectful communication. When engaging in conversations, be open, listen actively, and avoid interrupting others. This shows respect for differing opinions and promotes a harmonious environment.
Participating in local events, such as the Forks High School Homecoming or local fairs, is a great way to connect with the community. Showing support for local sports teams and festivals demonstrates respect and fosters community spirit.
Safety
Tipping in Forks
Ensure a smooth experience
In Forks, as in much of the United States, tipping is customary in service industries. It is common to tip servers in restaurants, usually 15-20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. Other service professions, such as taxi drivers and hairdressers, also generally expect tips. Tipping practices may be influenced by local customs, but the trend towards digital payments may affect how tips are given, with options to add tips through mobile payment apps becoming more popular.
Payment practices in Forks generally align with those in the broader United States. Cash is still accepted, but electronic payment methods such as credit and debit cards, as well as mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet, are widely used. Local businesses may vary in terms of the payment methods they accept, but there is a strong trend towards digital transactions for convenience. Additionally, some establishments may have minimum purchase requirements for card transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Forks, United States for mild weather and blooming flowers. It's the perfect season for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Forks, United States. Expect warm and pleasant weather, and the opportunity to attend local events and festivals. It's a great time for outdoor adventures and enjoying the long days.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Forks, United States as the foliage starts to change color. The temperatures begin to cool down, making it a great time for hiking and exploring the area's numerous trails.
Winter is a quieter time to visit Forks, United States. The region experiences cool and wet weather, but it's a great time for storm watching and experiencing the misty, atmospheric landscapes for which the area is known.
Forks at Night
Hiking in Forks
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful trail that takes you through the lush Hoh Rain Forest, showcasing unique flora and fauna, with opportunities for wildlife spotting.
A scenic trail that leads to Rialto Beach, offering stunning ocean views, rocky shorelines, and tide pools to explore.
This trail features a moderate hike through old-growth forests alongside Willoughby Creek, perfect for nature lovers.
A short, easy loop trail ideal for families, offering insight into the temperate rain forest ecosystem with informative signs.
A longer hike that takes you deep into Olympic National Park, leading to the Enchanted Valley with breathtaking views and scenic waterfalls.
Aiports
How to reach Forks by plane.
Located approximately 130 miles south of Forks, SEA is the primary international airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area.
Situated about 180 miles north of Forks, YVR serves as a major international airport for the Vancouver area in Canada.
Located roughly 200 miles south of Forks, PDX is a major airport serving Portland, Oregon, and offers international flights.
Located about 300 miles east of Forks, GEG provides a variety of domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Forks, primarily of European descent.
A significant percentage of the population representing individuals of Latin American descent.
Includes indigenous peoples, particularly those from local tribes.
A smaller demographic group representing individuals of African descent.
Includes individuals of Asian descent, though this group is relatively small.
This includes individuals who identify with more than one racial group.
A classification for individuals who do not fit into the aforementioned categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
American football is a popular sport, particularly in high school and local community leagues, with enthusiastic support from fans.
Basketball is commonly played at schools and community centers, with local teams participating in recreational leagues.
Baseball is a favorite summer pastime for many families, featuring local teams and little league games.
Soccer has been growing in popularity among youth leagues, fostering community engagement and teamwork.
With its proximity to natural parks and trails, hiking is a popular recreational activity among residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Forks.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants and cafes offer creative vegetarian and vegan dishes. Don't miss the vegan chili at Forks Coffee Shop and the vegetarian pasta at Pacific Pizza.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free pizza at Pacific Pizza or inquire about gluten-free menu items at Blakeslee's Bar & Grill.