Forks is the rainy town that inspired the "Twilight" books
Forks is named for its location near the confluence of the Calawah, Bogachiel and Sol Duc rivers. The town is considered one of the rainiest places in the contiguous United States. It is situated within a temperate rainforest that served as the misty setting of Stephenie Meyer's "Twilight" series. "One reason people love being here is the quality of life that comes with being so close to nature," says Ryan Herring, a broker who has lived in Forks his entire life and works for Fathom Realty. "Forks — the whole west end of the peninsula — is also a more affordable area of Washington." Forks' lush forests once cemented it as the "Logging Capital of the World" until it diversified its economy in the 1980s and '90s. Today, the town's economy is boosted by tourists seeking the moss-draped wilderness and the nods to "Twilight" in town. Situated on U.S. Highway 101, Forks is also a solid base to explore the Olympic Peninsula.
Country homes and cottages close to town
Ranch-style homes, minimal traditional cottages, log homes, tiny cabins and modern farmhouses have a foothold in Forks. The newest residences are from the 2020s, and the oldest date to the early 1900s. Some back up to rivers and creeks flowing through town. "If you're looking for acreage, we still have that out here. Even if you're looking for 5 acres or more," Herring says. Vintage cottages closer to town are often on small, lower-maintenance lots. Some are built of solid timber and feature country touches like wood-burning stoves. While single-family homes are the norm, Forks also has some manufactured homes. Prices generally range from around $205,000 to $530,000, depending on quality, size and condition, but can start as low as $155,000 or exceed $1 million.
Quillayute Valley School District supports online education
Students in Forks attend the Quillayute Valley School District, which serves fewer than 3,500 students in four schools. Forks Elementary School and Forks Middle School both earn C ratings on Niche, while Forks High School scores a C-plus. Insight School of Washington, also rated C-plus, is an alternative public option within the district. The online school offers self-paced, tuition-free learning from kindergarten through 12th grade.
River trails, rainforest hikes and fishing
Pickleball, tennis and basketball players gather at Tillicum Park. The park also has a skate park, playgrounds, covered picnic areas and historical displays showcasing the town's logging heritage. The Calawah River flows along Forks' northern side. A trail follows the river, and a boat launch provides a gateway for paddlers. Anglers cast their lines into the water. Bogachiel State Park, named for its corresponding river, is roughly 5 miles from Forks. The park spans over 120 acres and includes RV, trailer and tent campsites. A portion of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail follows the Bogachiel River and connects to the Bogachiel Rainforest, a part of the greater Olympic National Park ecosystem. Roughly 2 miles away, the 255-acre Elk Creek Conservation Area also leads hikers through dense forest. Rialto Beach's windy stretch of coastline — famous for its driftwood towers and moody vibes — is within 14 miles of Forks.
Nods to "Twilight" in town at the local shops and restaurants
Forks' shops and restaurants cluster around Highway 101. Some have adopted tributes to the "Twilight" books. A staple since the 1950s, Sully's Drive-In is a classic Americana eatery that's been around longer than the series but now features a Bella burger. Native to Twilight, a souvenir shop, sells "Team Edward" and "Team Jacob" T-shirts. Mocha Motion and A Shot in the Dark are local spots for coffee and breakfast. Forks Outfitters is a one-stop shop for groceries, hardware and sporting goods.
Meet and greets at Forever Twilight in Forks Festival
Fans gather in Forks each September for the Forever Twilight in Forks Festival. The event includes meet-and-greets with saga characters and themed parties and activities at Forks High School — a prominent location in the series, though the school itself wasn't used for filming.
Public transit options and the journey to Seattle
Clallam Transit offers fixed-route service from Forks to nearby towns such as Port Angeles and Sequim. Interlink, operated by Clallam Transit, allows riders to request a trip in advance or on demand for travel around town. U.S. Highway 101 runs through Forks. Seattle is around 140 miles away.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
