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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