Pacific Northwest Old Growth
Temperate Forest
Mixed / General
Beginner
USA — Olympic National Park
May to September
Overview
Walk among thousand-year-old Douglas firs and spot Roosevelt elk in mossy temperate rainforest.
Equipment
- Binoculars
- Rain jacket
- Hiking boots
- Field guide
Safety Notes
- Black bears are present — store food properly
- Trails can be slippery on moss-covered roots
Identification Tips
1
Roosevelt elk graze in the Hoh Rain Forest meadows
2
Banana slugs are indicator species for old growth
3
Marbled murrelets nest in old-growth canopy
Species Checklist
| Species | Likelihood | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Roosevelt Elk | common | Hoh River valley meadows |
| Banana Slug | common | Forest floor everywhere |
| Northern Spotted Owl | rare | Old-growth stands at dusk |
| Marbled Murrelet | rare | High canopy, dawn flights |
| Black Bear | uncommon | Berry patches in summer |