The Mora entrance to Olympic National Park serves as a gateway to the park’s stunning coastal areas. Located near Forks, Washington, this entrance provides access to Rialto Beach, one of the most popular and picturesque beaches in the park. Visitors can explore rugged coastlines, observe diverse marine life in tidepools, and hike through lush coastal forests. The Mora area is known for its dramatic sea stacks, driftwood-strewn beaches, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including bald eagles and sea otters.
What Are the Hours of Operation for the Mora Entrance?
The Mora entrance to Olympic National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. However, it’s important to note that:
- There is no specific entrance station at Mora with defined operating hours.
- The park itself is always accessible, but some facilities may have seasonal variations.
- During summer, entrance stations in other parts of the park are typically staffed from early morning to late night.
- In spring, fall, and winter, staffing hours at entrance stations are generally shorter.
It’s advisable to check the official Olympic National Park website for the most up-to-date information on facility hours and seasonal closures.
Where Can I Find Lodging Near the Mora Entrance?
While there isn’t a specific “Mora Lodge” within Olympic National Park, several lodging options are available in the vicinity:
- Mora Campground:
- Located near Rialto Beach
- Offers 94 campsites
- Open year-round
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First-come, first-served basis
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Quileute Oceanside Resort:
- Located in La Push, about 14 miles from Mora
- Offers cabins, motel rooms, and camping options
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Reservations recommended, especially during peak season
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Forks Area Accommodations:
- Various motels and lodges in Forks, about 14 miles from Mora
- Options range from budget-friendly to more upscale accommodations
For those seeking lodging within Olympic National Park, consider:
- Lake Crescent Lodge
- Lake Quinault Lodge
- Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
These lodges offer various amenities and are located in different areas of the park, though not in immediate proximity to the Mora entrance.
What Trails Can I Access from the Mora Entrance?
The Mora entrance provides access to several scenic trails:
- Rialto Beach Trail
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Distance: Varies (can be a short walk or longer hike)
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Features: Sandy beach, sea stacks, driftwood
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Hole-in-the-Wall Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 4 miles round trip from Rialto Beach
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Features: Unique rock formation, tidepools
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Second Beach Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 1.4 miles round trip
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Features: Sandy beach, sea stacks, coastal forest
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Third Beach Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
- Features: Secluded beach, old-growth forest
What Amenities Are Available at the Mora Entrance?
The Mora area offers several amenities for visitors:
- Mora Campground: 94 campsites, potable water, flush toilets
- Picnic Areas: Available at Rialto Beach
- Restrooms: Located at Rialto Beach and Mora Campground
- Information Kiosk: Provides park information and maps
- Parking: Available at Rialto Beach and Mora Campground
Note that there are no food services or lodges directly at the Mora entrance. The nearest services are available in Forks or La Push.
What Wildlife Can I Expect to See Near the Mora Entrance?
The coastal area accessible from the Mora entrance is rich in wildlife:
- Marine Mammals: Sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions
- Birds: Bald eagles, various seabirds, shorebirds
- Tidepools: Starfish, anemones, crabs, mussels
- Land Animals: Roosevelt elk, black bears (rarely seen on beaches)
| Season | Common Wildlife Sightings |
|---|---|
| Spring | Migrating gray whales, nesting seabirds |
| Summer | Sea otters, bald eagles, tidepools teeming with life |
| Fall | Roosevelt elk, spawning salmon in nearby rivers |
| Winter | Storm-watching, bald eagles |
How Can I Prepare for My Visit to the Mora Entrance?
To make the most of your visit to the Mora entrance of Olympic National Park:
- Check tide tables for safe beach access
- Bring layers of clothing for changeable weather
- Wear sturdy shoes for beach walking and hiking
- Pack water and snacks as there are no food services nearby
- Bring a tide pool guide and binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Familiarize yourself with Leave No Trace principles
- Check the park’s website for current conditions and alerts
Remember, the coastal areas can be dangerous due to sneaker waves and changing tides. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow park guidelines for a safe and enjoyable visit.