Whether you’re planning a one-day getaway in Olympic National Park or a weekend escape, or a multi-day hiking expedition, read this travel guide in which you will find the best things to do in Olympic National Park, the most scenic trails, unforgettable stopovers, mid-budget stays, and must-book tours to help you craft the perfect Olympic National Park itinerary.
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Things to do in Olympic National Park – Best Places to Visit in Olympic National Park – Olympic National Park Attractions
Nestled in the northwest corner of Washington State, Olympic National Park is a natural wonderland that feels like several parks in one. With misty temperate rainforests, glaciated mountain peaks, wild Pacific coastlines, and alpine meadows, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is worth visiting on a Pacific Northwest road trip..
Why Olympic National Park is worth visiting?
Few places in the United States offer the diversity that Olympic National Park boasts. It’s the only national park where you can hike through moss-draped rainforests in the morning, walk across alpine ridges by noon, and enjoy a sunset over rugged sea stacks in the evening.
Here’s why Olympic National Park is worth visiting:
- It’s home to the Hoh Rainforest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in the U.S.
- Offers panoramic views at Hurricane Ridge, ideal for both casual and advanced hikers.
- The Pacific coastline here is raw, dramatic, and untamed, especially near Rialto and Ruby Beaches.
- Wildlife enthusiasts can spot Roosevelt elk, black bears, bald eagles, and tidepool creatures.
- It’s easily accessible from major cities like Seattle, yet feels wildly remote.
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How to Reach Olympic National Park & Distance from Nearby Cities
The gateway city to Olympic National Park is Port Angeles, located about 2.5 to 3 hours from Seattle. Here’s how to get there –
From Seattle:
- Drive to Bainbridge Island via the Seattle-Bainbridge Ferry (35 min ferry ride).
- From Bainbridge, drive about 80 miles (2 hours) to Port Angeles via WA-104 and US-101.
From Portland, Oregon:
- Approx. 4.5 to 5 hours via I-5 North and US-101 North (260 miles).
If you’re flying in, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the nearest major airport. Renting a car is essential, as there’s no public transport inside the park.
Overnight Stay Options for Planning an Olympic National Park Itinerary
There’s no shortage of charming, budget-friendly accommodations near Olympic National Park that blend comfort with proximity to natural beauty.
- Olympic Lodge by Ayres (Port Angeles) – A rustic-style lodge with mountain views, fireplace lounges, and close to Hurricane Ridge. Great base for day trips.
- Lake Crescent Lodge – A historic lakeside retreat inside the park. Offers unbeatable views of Lake Crescent with cozy cabins and lodge rooms.
- Kalaloch Lodge – Mid-budget oceanfront lodge near Kalaloch Beach and Ruby Beach. Ideal for those focused on the coastal section of the park.
Book early, especially in summer, as these lodges fill up months in advance.
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Best Places to Visit in Olympic National Park
Hurricane Ridge
Just 17 miles from Port Angeles, Hurricane Ridge is your introduction to Olympic’s alpine beauty. On a clear day, you’ll see Mount Olympus and panoramic views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
It’s accessible yet jaw-droppingly scenic. It offers easy to moderate hikes, ideal for families and first-timers.
Don’t Miss:
- Hurricane Hill Trail – A 3.2-mile round-trip paved trail with stunning ridgeline views. Keep an eye out for marmots!
- Sunrise or sunset at the ridge – Magical light over snow-capped peaks.
Hoh Rain Forest
Drive about 1.5 hours southwest of Port Angeles to reach this mossy wonderland. The Hoh Rain Forest receives over 140 inches of rain annually, resulting in emerald green ferns, giant Sitka spruce, and trees blanketed in thick moss.
It’s like stepping into a fantasy film set. The air feels ancient, and the silence is meditative.
Best trail:
- Hall of Mosses Trail (0.8 miles) – A short loop that immerses you in the heart of the forest.
- Spruce Nature Trail (1.2 miles) – A less-crowded, peaceful alternative.
Lake Crescent
This glacially-carved lake is one of the deepest in Washington and offers serene views and tranquil hikes. It lies about 30 minutes west of Port Angeles.
The lake’s crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding peaks and offer great kayaking, swimming, and hiking.
Top Trail: Marymere Falls Trail – A 1.8-mile round trip that leads to a beautiful 90-foot waterfall. Easy and scenic.
Rialto Beach & Hole-in-the-Wall
Drive 1 hour 45 minutes west from Port Angeles to this coastal gem near La Push.
The sea stacks, dramatic driftwood, and tidepools make it one of the best Olympic National Park attractions.
Hike to: Hole-in-the-Wall – A 3.3-mile round trip along the beach (best done at low tide). The carved rock arch and tidepool life are fascinating.
Ruby Beach
Ruby Beach is one of the most photographed beaches in the Pacific Northwest. Its wild beauty, rugged stacks, and reflective sands during low tide make it magical, especially at sunset.
It’s located 30 minutes south of Forks or 1.5 hours from Port Angeles.
Sol Duc Valley
Located 40 minutes west of Port Angeles, this area offers waterfalls, hot springs, and forest hikes.
The Sol Duc Falls are stunning, and you can soak in nearby Sol Duc Hot Springs after a long hike.
Top trail: Sol Duc Falls Trail – A 1.6-mile round trip to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the park.
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Best Hikes in Olympic National Park
Here are a few must-do hikes if you’re building a 3-day Olympic National Park itinerary:
- Hurricane Hill Trail – Easy-moderate, paved trail, 3.2 miles.
- Hall of Mosses Trail – Easy, rainforest, 0.8 miles.
- Marymere Falls Trail – Easy, lake + forest, 1.8 miles.
- Sol Duc Falls Trail – Easy-moderate, waterfall hike, 1.6 miles.
- Second Beach Trail – 1.4 miles round trip to a breathtaking coastal cove with sea stacks.
These hikes cover all ecosystems – alpine, rainforest, and coastal – and make for a balanced Olympic National Park itinerary.
Things to Do in Olympic National Park
Beyond hiking, Olympic National Park offers a plethora of unique experiences:
- Stargazing at Kalaloch Beach – The remote location makes for amazing night skies.
- Tidepooling at Ruby Beach or Hole-in-the-Wall – See the action of sea stars, anemones, and crabs.
- Wildlife watching – Spot Roosevelt elk in Hoh, otters along the coast, and even whales offshore in the spring.
- Kayaking on Lake Crescent – Calm waters and unforgettable views.
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Tours to Book – Olympic National Park Itinerary
You can visit this park in DIY style or book some local tours to learn more about this national park in depth.
- Olympic National Park Full-Day Small Group Tour (from Seattle) – Includes transport, guides, and park highlights.
- Guided Hiking Tour of Hoh Rain Forest & Beaches – For deeper insight into the rainforest ecology.
- Whale Watching + Olympic Peninsula Tour – Combine Olympic Park with marine life near Port Townsend.
Olympic National Park Itinerary (2–3 Days)
Day 1 – Alpine and Lakes:
Hike Hurricane Ridge. Visit to Lake Crescent & Marymere Falls
Overnight: Stay at Olympic Lodge in Port Angeles
Day 2 – Rainforest and Coastline:
Drive to Hoh Rain Forest (Hike Hall of Mosses). Visit Rialto Beach and Hole-in-the-Wall. Admire the Sunset at Ruby Beach
Overnight: Stay at Kalaloch Lodge
Day 3 – Waterfalls and Hot Springs:
Hike Sol Duc Falls. Soak at Sol Duc Hot Springs or kayak at Lake Crescent. Head back to Seattle or stay an extra night.
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Useful Tips – Best Places to Visit in Olympic National Park
- Buy your park pass online or at the entrance – $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.
- Weather is unpredictable – Bring rain gear, even in summer.
- Check tide schedules if you’re visiting beaches. This is very important for the Hole-in-the-Wall hike.
- Fuel up in Port Angeles or Forks – Gas stations are sparse inside the park.
- Pack layers – Even in summer, mornings and high elevations can be chilly.
FAQs – Olympic National Park Attractions
1. What’s the best time to visit Olympic National Park?
Late spring to early fall (May to September) offers the best weather and access to high-elevation trails.
2. Can I visit Olympic National Park in one day?
Yes, but you’ll only scratch the surface. Choose either Hurricane Ridge + Lake Crescent or Hoh Rain Forest + Ruby Beach.
3. Is it pet-friendly?
Only partially. Pets are allowed in campgrounds and on a few trails like the Peabody Creek Trail. Most trails are off-limits.
4. Are reservations required?
Only for accommodations or popular campgrounds. No timed entry permit is needed as of 2025.
5. Is there cell service in the park?
Limited. Download maps and trail info offline beforehand.
Whether you’re a nature photographer, normal level hiker, or just someone seeking peace and beauty in nature, Olympic National Park will win your heart. Every corner feels different, from alpine ridges and lush rainforests to moody beaches and glittering lakes. This Olympic National Park itinerary provides the perfect balance of adventure and serenity, making it an unforgettable stop on your Pacific Northwest journey.
Plan early, pack smart, and let nature do the rest.
Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro
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