Olympic National Park is a diverse and stunning national park located in the state of Washington. What makes this park so special is its varied ecosystems. The park encompasses subalpine forests, temperate rainforests, alpine peaks, and a rugged coastline, all within a relatively compact area. The diverse ecosystems provide habitats for many different animals including Roosevelt elk, black bears, mountain goats, deer, and a variety of bird species. Visitors to Olympic National Park can engage in a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, backpacking, and wildlife watching. In this travel guide, you will find all of the best things to do and see in Olympic National Park.
When to Go
Olympic National Park can be visited year-round but summer is generally the busiest season with warm weather and clear skies. However, with larger crowds, accommodation rates tend to be higher during this time. Spring and fall bring pleasant weather with fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations. There is a good chance of clear skies from April through October but the rest of the year brings heavy clouds, rain, and colder temperatures. In the winter, some park facilities close, and higher-elevation areas transition to winter activities such as snowshoeing, skiing, and tubing.
Where to Stay
Forks
Forks is a small town surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including temperate rainforests, rivers, and the nearby coastline. It is a great choice for exploring the coastline and the Hoh Rain Forest. If you enjoyed the Twilight series, you will love your stay in Forks as it was the setting for the story. There are plenty of Twilight-related sites and attractions to see in and around town.
There are several accommodation options to choose from in the area. During our very short stay in Forks, we rented this lovely Airbnb. It is perfect for a large group and comes with all of the things that you may need during your stay. It is cozy and clean and feels just like being at home. Other good Airbnb options include Shadynook Cottage, Mill Creek Inn Cabin, and Wild Coast Craftsman. The Kaloch Lodge and the Quileute Oceanside Resort are both good hotel options.
There are also plenty of campground options to choose from in the Forks area. South Beach, Kalaloch, and Mora Campgrounds are located on or near the coast with some campsites even providing views of the Pacific Ocean. The Hoh Campground is the closest campground to the Hoh Rain Forest. If you are looking for campsites with hookups, your best option is Bogachiel State Park or Quileute Oceanside Resort.
Port Angeles
The largest town on the Olympic Peninsula, Port Angeles serves as the primary gateway to Olympic National Park. It is close in proximity to Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent and offers excellent views of the Olympic Mountains. During our stay in Port Angeles, we stayed at the Centennial Airbnb. This 100-year-old renovated home is right in the middle of town, making it close to shops and restaurants as well as the park entrance. The home is well equipped with everything you may need during your trip as well as cozy and trendy furnishings. It is a good place for both small and large groups. Other good options in the area include The Birch, Sonnywood Acres, Madrona Retreat, and this adorable treehouse. Lake Cresent Lodge and Log Cabin Resort are both good hotel options near Lake Crescent. They are both open seasonally and offer beautiful lake views.
There are several excellent campgrounds in the Port Angeles area. Fairholme and Heart O’ the Hills Campgrounds are both located inside the park. If you are looking for campgrounds with hookups, check out Crescent Beach RV Park, Elwha RV Park & Campground, and Olympic Peninsula / Port Angeles KOA.
What to See and Do
Olympic National Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors, thanks to its diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, mountains, and coastline. Here are some of the best things to do in Olympic National Park.
Hoh Rain Forest
Located on the western side of the Olympic Peninsula, the Hoh Rain Forest is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. It is classified as a temperate rainforest with high levels of precipitation throughout the year. The abundant rainfall contributes to the lush and vibrant ecosystem including Sitka spruce, western hemlock, Douglas fir, and bigleaf maple. Mosses and ferns cover the forest floor and tree trunks, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere. The rainforest is also home to various wildlife, including Roosevelt elk, black bears, cougars, and various bird species.
One of the most popular attractions within the Hoh Rain Forest is the Hall of Mosses Trail. This short loop trail, approximately 0.8 miles long, takes visitors through a dense, moss-covered forest with giant trees and vibrant greenery. The Hoh River Trail is a longer option that extends deeper into the rainforest and provides access to the Hoh River. The Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center serves as an information hub for visitors with exhibits, trail maps, and ranger-led programs during the summer months. You can find more information about the Hoh Rain Forest here.
Ruby Beach
Ruby Beach is a scenic and popular stop for visitors exploring the coastal areas of Olympic National Park. It is renowned for its sea stacks, tide pools, driftwood, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors may spot seabirds, eagles, and other coastal wildlife at the beach. It is also not uncommon to see seals or sea lions offshore. The beach is easily accessible, with a short trail leading from the parking area to the shoreline. The trail is surrounded by coastal vegetation and provides glimpses of the stunning scenery before reaching the beach. It is an excellent spot to watch the sunset. You can find more information about Ruby Beach here.
Rialto Beach
Rialto Beach is another stunning coastal destination within the park. Like Ruby Beach, Rialto Beach is known for its rugged beauty, sea stacks, driftwood-strewn shores, and stunning ocean views. During low tide, visitors can explore tide pools along the shore, revealing a variety of marine life such as sea stars, anemones, and crabs. One popular activity at Rialto Beach is the hike to Hole-in-the-Wall. This natural arch is a unique geological feature that can be reached by a relatively short hike along the beach during low tide. Rialto Beach is a favorite among photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset. You can find more information about Rialto Beach here.
Hurricane Ridge
One of the most popular destinations within the park, Hurricane Ridge offers breathtaking views, hiking opportunities, and a range of recreational activities. To reach Hurricane Ridge, visitors must take Hurricane Ridge Road, a 17-mile scenic drive that offers several viewpoints where visitors can pull over and take in the breathtaking scenery. At the beginning of this scenic road, you will find the Olympic National Park Visitor Center, which provides exhibits on the park’s natural and cultural history, trail maps, and ranger-led programs during the summer months. It is a great starting point for exploring the area.
The main attraction of Hurricane Ridge is its panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and surrounding wilderness. On clear days, visitors are treated to stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and lush forests. Hurricane Ridge offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels. Popular trails include the Hurricane Hill Trail, which provides stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, and the Cirque Rim Trail, which takes hikers along the ridge for expansive views. In the winter, Hurricane Ridge becomes a popular destination for snow enthusiasts. The ridge receives snowfall, and activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding are enjoyed by visitors.
Lake Crescent
Lake Crescent is a stunning glacially-carved lake with crystal-clear waters. Lush forests and towering peaks surround the lake. The water reflects the surrounding landscapes, creating a picturesque setting. The lake provides opportunities for various recreational activities, including kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing. There are also several hiking trails in the area including Marymere Falls and the Spruce Railroad Trail. East Beach, located on the eastern shore, is a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, and sunbathing. You can find more information about Lake Crescent here.
Stargazing
Olympic National Park has been designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association. This recognition highlights the park’s commitment to protecting its natural darkness and providing exceptional opportunities for stargazing. One of the key factors contributing to the park’s excellent stargazing conditions is the low light pollution. The park’s remote location and strict lighting regulations contribute to preserving the natural darkness of the night sky. While you can stargaze from various locations within the park, certain spots are particularly popular for celestial observations. Hurricane Ridge, with its high elevation, provides a clear view of the night sky. Additionally, coastal areas such as Rialto Beach and Second Beach offer unobstructed views. The park occasionally hosts stargazing events and programs led by rangers and astronomy enthusiasts. These events may include telescope viewing, guided night hikes, and educational sessions about the night sky.
Boating
The park is home to several lakes and waterways that are suitable for boating. Notable places include Lake Crescent, Lake Quinault, Elwha River, and Hoh River. Lake Crescent, known for its crystal-clear waters, is a popular destination for boating. Non-motorized boating activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are enjoyed on the lake. Motorized boats are allowed but are subject to a 12-knot speed limit. Lake Quinault, located in the southwestern part of the park, is another beautiful lake suitable for boating. The lake is larger than Lake Crescent and allows motorized boats, making it a good option for those interested in powerboating or fishing.
The coastal areas of the park can be challenging with strong currents and changing conditions. However, skilled sea kayakers and boaters can explore the rugged coastline, sea stacks, and tidal zones. Some areas within the park may require permits for boating, especially for overnight trips and specific water bodies. It is important to familiarize yourself with park boating regulations before setting out. It is possible to bring your boating equipment or rent from the lodges in the park. Boat tours of Lake Cresent and Lake Quinault are also an option for those looking for a guided experience.
Hiking
Olympic National Park has an extensive network of hiking trails catering to various skill levels and showcasing the park’s varied ecosystems. Here are some of the most popular trails in the park.
Hoh River Trail
Located in the Hoh Rain Forest, this trail is known for its lush greenery, moss-covered trees, and the soothing sounds of the Hoh River. It’s a popular trail for day hikes or backpacking trips, with opportunities to explore the vibrant rainforest. There are several points of interest to hike to via the Hoh River Trail. Specifically, Mineral Creek Falls (5.5 miles round trip), 5-mile Island (10.1 miles), Blue Glacier Trail (35.1 miles), Olympus Guard Station (17.9 miles), Elk Lake (29.4 miles), Hoh Lake (28.7 miles), and the West Peak of Mount Olympus (41.4 miles). A wilderness permit is required for all overnight backpacking stays year-round.
Hall of Mosses Trail
The Hall of Mosses Trail is located in the Hoh Rain Forest near the visitor center. The trail takes hikers through an old-growth forest characterized by towering Sitka spruce, western hemlock, Douglas fir, and other ancient tree species. The forest is draped in mosses, lichens, and ferns, creating a magical and otherworldly atmosphere. This short loop trail is approximately 1.1 miles with about 78 feet in elevation gain.
Spruce Nature Trail
Another popular Hoh Rain Forest hike is the Spruce Nature Trail. This short and easy loop trail winds through the forest and passes by the beautiful Hoh River. The Spruce Nature Trail is 1.4 miles with 16 feet of elevation gain. The trailhead is located near the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center.
Hole-in-the-Wall from Rialto Beach
This coastal hike starts at Rialto Beach and leads to the iconic “Hole-in-the-Wall” sea arch. It’s a relatively easy hike along the shoreline, providing stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and opportunities for tidepool exploration. The Hole-in-the-Wall from Rialto Beach Trail is 3.3 miles with 108 feet of elevation gain.
Sol Duc Falls Trail
The Sol Duc Falls Trail takes hikers through old-growth forests to the stunning Sol Duc Falls. The trail is relatively short and family-friendly, making it a popular choice for those looking for a rewarding hike without significant elevation gain. This out-and-back trail is 1.6 miles with 226 feet of elevation gain. You can find more information here.
Marymere Falls Trail
This trail winds through a lush and verdant forest, featuring towering trees, ferns, moss-covered rocks, and the soothing sounds of Barnes Creek. The trail leads to a viewing platform that offers a spectacular vantage point for observing Marymere Falls. This 90-foot two-tiered waterfall cascades into a small pool at the base. The falls are framed by the lush greenery of the surrounding forest, creating a picturesque scene. The Marymere Falls Trail is approximately 1.7 miles roundtrip with 298 feet of elevation gain. It is classified as an easy trail. The trailhead is located at Storm King Ranger Station near Lake Crescent.
Mount Storm King
This prominent Peak is located near the shore of Lake Crescent, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. The Mount Storm King Trail starts near the Storm King Ranger Station and climbs over 2,000 feet to the summit. The trail is 4.1 miles long and is rated as hard due to steep and rocky sections. You can find more information here.
Devil’s Punchbowl via Spruce Railroad Trail
This trail follows the path of the historic Spruce Railroad, which was constructed during World War I to transport spruce lumber for the war effort. While the railroad is no longer operating, remnants of trestles and tunnels can be seen along the trail. One of the highlights of the Spruce Railroad Trail is its scenic views of Lake Crescent and the surrounding mountain terrain. The trail leads to Devil’s Punchbowl, a beautiful section of Lake Crescent with teal blue water and a picturesque bridge. It is a popular swimming area, especially in the summer. The hike to Devil’s Punchbowl is 2.4 miles out and back with 137 feet of elevation gain. It is classified as an easy trail.
Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge
This trail starts from the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center and leads to panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. It’s a moderate hike that offers wildflower displays in the summer and opportunities to spot wildlife, including mountain goats. The Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge hike is 3.4 miles with 826 feet of elevation gain.