Spread across nearly one million acres in Washington State, Olympic National Park is a remarkable showcase of natural diversity. From snow-capped peaks and ancient rainforests to wild rivers and rugged Pacific beaches, it offers a rare chance to experience three distinct ecosystems within one extraordinary destination.
Recommended For
Nature Enthusiasts: Explore mountain ridges, glacial valleys, and dense temperate rainforests in a single day.
Adventure Seekers: Enjoy kayaking, mountain biking, tidepooling, or climbing the park’s dramatic peaks.
Families & First-Time Visitors: Relax on scenic lake cruises, visit hot springs, or enjoy ranger-led educational programs.
What to Expect
- Location: Northwestern Washington, encompassing Mount Olympus and the Olympic Peninsula
- Size: Nearly 1 million acres
- Established: Originally designated as Olympic Forest Reserve, became a national park in 1938
- Visitor Centers: Four main centers provide maps, guides, and park information
Highlights
- Sol Duc Falls & Salmon Cascades: Two of the park’s most iconic and photogenic waterfalls
- Lake Quinault: A serene spot for cruises, wildlife sightings, and coach tours of the Quinault Rain Forest
- Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort: Unwind in mineral pools, freshwater pools, and enjoy poolside massages
- Hurricane Ridge: Popular for scenic views and accessible hikes along mountain ridges
Outdoor Activities
- Boating: Popular on the park’s 13 rivers—safety regulations and permits vary by waterway
- Fishing: Allowed in designated areas, with catch-and-release encouraged to protect ecosystems
- Birdwatching: Excellent throughout the park’s forests and waterways
- Rock Climbing: Try shale, basalt, and pillow lava climbs on peaks like Mount Olympus and Mount Constance
- Tidepooling: Visit Kalaloch Beach 4 and Mora’s Hole; avoid slippery rocks and sudden waves
Unique Features
- Three Ecosystems: Coastal beaches, temperate rainforests, and alpine mountains
- Isolated Species: Olympic mountain milkvetch, Mazama pocket gopher, and “blue backs” trout evolved uniquely here
- Geologic Formation: Basalt cliffs and fossil-rich rocks shaped by undersea volcanic eruptions and mile-thick glaciers
History & Culture
- Human Habitation: Estimated at 12,000 years, with early diets including whales and large mammals
- Indigenous Tribes: Quinault, Quileute, Hoh, and Ozette tribes signed treaties in the mid-1800s
- Park Name Origin: Named “Olympic” by early explorers for the mountain range’s majestic appearance
- Reservations: Established in 1873 for tribal communities following American settlement
Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Late winter and spring offer fewer crowds and lush, rain-fed scenery
- Start with an Audio Tour: Use your phone to hear about key areas like Staircase, Hoh, and Hurricane Ridge
- Permits & Passes: Required for entry; annual passes are $80 (educational waivers available)
- Dress for Weather: Be prepared for rain, especially during the winter months
Ranger & Educational Programs
- Ranger-Led Trails: Available year-round for guided exploration and safety support
- Wildlife Spotting: Includes black bears, tidepool species, and rare birds—use binoculars for best viewing
Conservation & Safety
- Boating Safety: Check local conditions and regulations; solo trips not advised for beginners
- Climbing Requirements: Inform officials of route and return plan; never climb alone
- Tidepool Safety: Avoid algae-covered rocks and stay alert for crashing waves
Contact & Hours
Olympic National Park
Address: 3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362
Phone: 360-565-3130
Website: nps.gov/olym
Map
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