8 Best Things To Do in Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park, located in Washington State, offers a diverse range of activities that cater to nature lovers, adventurers, and casual visitors alike. You can explore its stunning beaches, hike through lush rainforests, and marvel at towering mountain ranges all in one day. The park is also home to unique wildlife and a variety of ecosystems, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
Visitors can embark on scenic hikes such as the Hoh Rain Forest's Hall of Mosses Trail, which provides a short but enchanting walk through verdant, moss-draped trees. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Hurricane Ridge offers panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and opportunities for snowshoeing in the winter. Along the coast, the rugged beaches of Rialto Beach and Shi Shi Beach offer tidepool exploration and breathtaking sunsets. Water enthusiasts can kayak in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Crescent or raft down the Elwha River. Camping is available at various sites throughout the park, including the popular Kalaloch and Sol Duc campgrounds. Wildlife enthusiasts can keep an eye out for Roosevelt elk, black bears, and various bird species. Whether you're in for a day trip or an extended stay, Olympic National Park provides an unforgettable experience with its diverse landscapes and activities.
1. Hoh Rain Forest
Free, Hiking, Recreation, Sightseeing
1 to 2 hoursThe Hoh Rain Forest, located in Olympic National Park in Washington State, offers a mesmerizing experience for nature enthusiasts. As one of the most spectacular examples of a temperate rainforest in the United States, it boasts lush, verdant landscapes, moss-draped trees, and an array of wildlife. Visitors can explore the forest through a network of well-maintained trails, such as the Hall of Mosses Trail, which provides an easy, short hike showcasing the dense, green surroundings. For a more immersive experience, the Hoh River Trail offers a longer trek, leading deep into the forest and up to the Blue Glacier on Mount Olympus. Birdwatching, photography, and guided ranger tours are popular activities here. The visitor center provides educational exhibits and helpful information. Whether you're seeking tranquility or adventure, the Hoh Rain Forest delivers an unforgettable encounter with one of the planet's most enchanting ecosystems.
2. Hurricane Ridge
Free, Hiking, Recreation, Sightseeing
Half Day to Full DayHurricane Ridge, located within Olympic National Park in Washington State, offers an array of activities that cater to nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. At an elevation of 5,242 feet, the ridge provides panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains, making it a prime spot for photography and sightseeing. In the summer, you can explore numerous hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks, each offering unique vistas of alpine meadows, wildflowers, and wildlife. For winter visitors, Hurricane Ridge transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even downhill skiing at the small ski area. The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center offers educational exhibits and ranger-led programs, enhancing your understanding of the park's diverse ecosystem. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in serene natural beauty or engage in exhilarating outdoor activities, Hurricane Ridge delivers a memorable experience year-round.
3. Kalaloch and Ruby Beach
Beaches, Free, Hiking, Recreation
2 hours to Half DayKalaloch and Ruby Beach, located on the stunning Olympic Peninsula in Washington State, offer a variety of outdoor activities set against breathtaking scenery. At Kalaloch, you can explore tide pools teeming with marine life, take long walks on sandy beaches, or enjoy a picnic with ocean views. The area is known for its dramatic coastal cliffs and iconic "Tree of Life," a unique tree suspended between cliffs. Ruby Beach, a short drive north, is famed for its striking sea stacks and driftwood-strewn shorelines. It's an excellent spot for beachcombing, photography, and birdwatching. The beach's name comes from the reddish garnet fragments that can sometimes be found in the sand. Both locations are part of the Olympic National Park, offering opportunities for camping, hiking, and even whale watching during migration seasons. With its rich natural beauty and diverse activities, Kalaloch and Ruby Beach are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
4. Lake Crescent
Free, Hiking, Recreation, Sightseeing
2 hours to Half DayLake Crescent, nestled within Olympic National Park in Washington State, offers a serene escape with a variety of activities for nature enthusiasts. Known for its stunningly clear blue waters and surrounded by lush old-growth forests, the lake is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, providing a peaceful way to explore the shoreline and its hidden coves. Hiking trails, such as the popular Marymere Falls trail, offer accessible routes for all skill levels, leading to breathtaking waterfall views. For those interested in longer treks, the Spruce Railroad Trail provides a scenic path along the lake's northern edge, weaving through tunnels and old railway beds. Fishing is another favorite pastime, with the lake home to unique species like the Beardslee trout. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking at designated areas, or simply relax and take in the tranquil beauty of their surroundings. Accommodations like the historic Lake Crescent Lodge offer charming stays with stunning lake views, making it an ideal destination for both adventure and relaxation.
5. Mora and Rialto Beach
Beaches, Free, Hiking, Recreation, Sightseeing
1 to 2 hoursMora and Rialto Beach, located within the stunning Olympic National Park in Washington State, offer a wealth of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. At Mora, you can explore lush, temperate rainforests and hike through trails like the James Pond Trail, which meanders through moss-draped trees and alongside serene ponds. Rialto Beach, just a short drive away, is famed for its spectacular sea stacks, tide pools, and dramatic coastal views. Here, you can walk along the pebble-strewn shore, marvel at the rugged rock formations, and discover marine life in the tide pools during low tide. Don’t miss the Hole-in-the-Wall, a natural arch carved by the ocean, accessible via a scenic 1.5-mile beach hike. Whether you're interested in photography, bird watching, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Mora and Rialto Beach provide a perfect escape into nature's splendor.
6. Sol Duc Valley
Natural Wonders, Free, Hiking, Recreation, Sightseeing
1 to 2 hoursSol Duc Valley, nestled in the heart of Olympic National Park in Washington State, offers a plethora of activities for nature enthusiasts. One of the valley's highlights is the stunning Sol Duc Falls, accessible via a gentle hike through lush, old-growth forests. The falls provide a picturesque setting for photography and relaxation. For those seeking rejuvenation, the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort features naturally heated mineral pools perfect for soaking tired muscles. The valley also boasts an extensive network of trails for hiking and backpacking, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks, offering opportunities to spot diverse wildlife and vibrant plant life. Anglers can enjoy fishing in the Sol Duc River, which is teeming with salmon and trout. Additionally, the area is ideal for picnicking and camping, providing a serene backdrop for unwinding amidst nature. Overall, Sol Duc Valley is a haven for outdoor adventures and tranquil escapes.
7. Olympic National Park Main Visitor Center and Wilderness Information Center
Free, Hiking, Recreation, Tours
1 to 2 hoursThe Olympic National Park Main Visitor Center and Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles, Washington, serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the diverse landscapes of Olympic National Park. At the Visitor Center, you can gather essential information about the park's ecosystems, weather conditions, and trail statuses from knowledgeable rangers. Interactive exhibits provide insights into the park's unique flora and fauna, geology, and cultural history. The center also offers educational films and maps for a deeper understanding of the park's natural wonders. For those planning backcountry adventures, the Wilderness Information Center is indispensable. Here, you can obtain necessary wilderness permits, bear canisters, and up-to-date trail conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The rangers can provide advice on the best routes, camping spots, and safety tips. Additionally, the center features a bookstore with a variety of educational materials, souvenirs, and guidebooks tailored to enrich your visit. Whether you're a casual visitor or an avid hiker, the centers equip you with the knowledge and resources to make the most of your time in Olympic National Park.
8. Staircase
Free, Hiking, Recreation
1 to 2 hours"Staircase" is a versatile term that can refer to various contexts, such as architecture, fitness, or even a metaphorical journey. Here's a description centered around the architectural and fitness aspects of a staircase: In an architectural context, a staircase serves as a functional and often aesthetically pleasing element of a building, allowing you to move between different levels. You can admire its design, which might feature elegant railings, intricate balustrades, or minimalist lines. The material of the staircase—wood, metal, glass, or stone—can add to the overall ambiance of the space. From a fitness perspective, a staircase offers a convenient and effective workout opportunity. You can engage in stair climbing to improve cardiovascular health, strengthen leg muscles, and boost endurance. Running or walking up and down the stairs can be a high-intensity interval training exercise, while taking the stairs instead of an elevator adds extra physical activity to your daily routine. In both contexts, the staircase represents a path of movement and progression, whether you're navigating a physical space or enhancing your fitness levels.