You are currently viewing 15 Things to Do in Olympic National Park WashingtonPin

15 Things to Do in Olympic National Park Washington

Looking for the best things to do in Olympic National Park? Here is everything you need to know if it’s your first time.

Welcome to the heart of the Pacific Northwest, where lush rainforests, towering mountains, and pristine coastlines converge in a breathtaking symphony of nature.

We love how diverse the landscapes are at this park. On our first visit, we explored the rainforests; on our second, we explored the coast. This park is a gem in Washington state, and in this guide, we’ll show you the best things to do in Olympic National Park.

olympic national park signPin

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: December 20, 2023

About Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park was established in 1938 and encompasses nearly a million acres. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve and protects a diverse ecosystem, including temperate rainforests, alpine peaks, and rugged beaches. The combination of landscapes within a single park makes it truly special.

What You Need to Know Before You Go

  • How many days are enough for Olympic National Park? Give yourself at least two or more days since the park is big and has diverse landscapes.
  • Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall is ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing. Waterfalls are at peak flow during the spring.
  • Best Time of Day to Visit: Mornings and evenings provide stunning light for photography if the sun is out. Mid-day is also great if it’s your typical moody PNW weather.
  • Wildflowers: July and August are historically the best months to see wildflower blooms.
  • Salmon Run: They usually spawn in the Quinault and Ozette river systems in November and December.
  • Foliage: Typically, by late September, you can witness the gorgeous fall foliage in the alpine regions and forests.
  • Four Distinct Regions:
    • Pacific Coast: The pristine and rugged coastline makes up the western edge of Olympic National Park. See stunning rock formations, sandy beaches, and tide pools.
    • Temperate Rainforests: The park has one of the few temperate rainforests in the world, characterized by lush greenery, abundant mosses, and towering trees. See the Hoh Rainforest with its rich diversity of plant and animal life.
    • Alpine Peaks and Glaciers: The Olympic Mountain Range dominates the central part of the park, characterized by alpine meadows, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks. See Mount Olympus (the highest peak in the park), subalpine and alpine ecosystems, and Hurricane Ridge.
    • Forests and Valleys: The eastern portion of Olympic National Park consists of dense forests, river valleys, and lowland areas. See Elwha Valley, Quinault Valley, and Enchanted Valley.

Where is Olympic National Park?

The park is easily accessible from major cities such as Seattle and Tacoma, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. It has many entry points, but the most popular entrances include Hurricane Ridge Area (North), Lake Crescent Area (North), Ozette (Northwest), Neah Bay (Northwest), Mora (Central West), Hoh Rain Forest (Central), Kalaloch (Southwest), Lake Quinault (South), and Staircase Entrance (Southeast).

See More: 15 Best Weekend Getaways from Seattle WA

How to Get to Olympic National Park

Although getting to Olympic National Park depends on your starting point, Seattle is a common entry point for visitors outside the PNW. Here are general directions from Seattle.

From Seattle:

  • By Car:
    • Drive west on US-101 from Seattle.
    • Depending on your chosen entrance, you may take a ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island or Edmonds to Kingston. From there, you can continue on the highway.
  • Ferry Option:
    • Take a ferry ride from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island or Edmonds to Kingston for more scenic views in transit.
  • Major Entrances:
    • There are several entrances to the park, including the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center (south), the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center (west), and the Staircase Ranger Station (east).

By Air: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the nearest major airport. You can rent a car from the airport or rent a campervan (you need a cab or rideshare to the campervan rental location 10 minutes from the airport).

Local Tip: Check for any road closures or alerts here before your journey. If you plan to visit specific regions within the park, choose the entrance that provides the most direct access to your destination.

Olympic National Park Entrance Fee

  • Standard Entrance Pass (valid for seven consecutive days)
    • Private Vehicle: $30
    • Motorcycle: $25
    • Per Person (bicyclists and pedestrians): $15
  • Annual Pass: $55
  • 2024 Free Days
    • Monday, January 15 — Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
    • Saturday, April 20 — First Day of National Park Week
    • Wednesday, June 19 — Juneteenth
    • Sunday, August 4 — The Great American Outdoors Act
    • Saturday, September 28 — National Public Lands Day
    • Saturday, November 11 — Veterans Day

Pro Tip: If you visit multiple National Parks during the year, pick up an America the Beautiful pass to save money. It also gives you access to US Forest Service, BLM, and more.

Best Things to Do in Olympic National Park

To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Olympic National Park.

1. Hall of Mosses →

47.8614801,-123.9367415, map

The Hall of Mosses is located in the Hoh Rainforest and is a magical and surreal forest realm draped in hanging mosses. It’s a 0.8-mile short loop trail that immerses visitors in the ancient beauty of the temperate rainforest.

2. Hoh Rain forest – Hoh River Trail →

47.8604203,-123.9390272, map

If you want to experience more of the Hoh Rain Forest, this 18-mile hike takes you to Blue Glacier. We only did five miles in and then five back because we were so slow. I partly blame the hundreds of slugs we were trying not to smush under our feet.

Pro Tip: To fully appreciate the biodiversity, visit during the wetter seasons (late fall to early spring) when the forest comes alive with vibrant colors and lush foliage.

3. Hurricane Ridge

3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362, map

Hurricane Ridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and alpine meadows as you’re perched high in the Olympic Mountains. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts year-round, offering hiking, snowshoeing, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Pro Tip: Summer and early fall offer pleasant weather for hiking, while winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, perfect for winter sports.

4. Salmon Cascades

48.0229689,-123.9261963, map

The cascades are only a short walk away from the parking area. I didn’t create a separate post because it was a quick stop.

It would have been great to see the salmon run where they swim upstream against the current and sometimes even jump out of the water. I remember seeing a documentary on NatGeo or Animal Planet on salmon migrations and thinking about their difficult lives.

Pro Tip: The sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) spawn in November and December. Plan your visit then to witness this incredible display of nature’s cycle.

salmon cascades olympic national parkPin

5. Sol Duc Falls →

47.954847,-123.8395539, map

Sol Duc Falls is a stunning waterfall surrounded by moss-covered rocks and ferns. It’s my favorite short and easy yet rewarding hike (0.8 miles) to a beautiful waterfall with several smaller ones on the way.

Pro Tip: Spring is an ideal time when the waterfall is at its peak flow, showcasing the beauty of melting snow from the surrounding mountains.

6. Lake Crescent

48.0717505,-123.9115033, map

Lake Crescent is a pristine glacial lake surrounded by mountains. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for kayaking, fishing, or enjoying the serene scenery.

Pro Tip: Summer is the best time to fully appreciate the lake’s recreational offerings, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.

lake crescent olympic national parkPin

7. Marymere Falls

227693-227769 Olympic Hwy, Port Angeles, WA 98363, map

A short and enchanting hike near Lake Crescent leads to Marymere Falls, a picturesque waterfall framed by lush old-growth forest.

Pro Tip: Spring and early summer provide the best conditions, with increased water flow and blooming vegetation.

marymere falls trailPin

8. Mount Storm King

48.0538084,-123.7928052, map

For those of you looking for a challenge, the Mount Storm King trail has a rewarding payoff with a stunning panoramic view of Lake Crescent from the summit. Be prepared for steep ascents and rocky terrain.

Pro Tip: April through October gives you the best hiking conditions. You may get snow-covered sections early in the season.

9. Enchanted Valley

47.6711898,-123.3893172, map

Enchanted Valley is only accessible by a backcountry trail and is a remote wilderness area surrounded by towering peaks. In the valley, you may get a chance to see diverse wildlife, like bears, beavers, bobcats, coyotes, deer, elk, river otters, and mountain lions.

Pro Tip: Summer is the optimal time for this trek, providing better trail conditions and increased chances of spotting wildlife.

10. Cape Flattery

48.38311,-124.7556102, map

Cape Flattery is the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States, featuring dramatic coastal cliffs, sea stacks, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Although it’s not within the official national park, it’s close by and worth a visit if you’re already visiting Olympic National Park.

Pro Tip: Any time of the year is suitable, but late spring and summer offer clearer skies and more pleasant conditions along the coast.

cape flattery observation deckPin

11. Shi Shi Beach

48.2936822,-124.6652115, map

Shi Shi Beach is a pristine sandy shoreline accessible through a scenic hike. You can see sea stacks, tide pools, and stunning coastal landscapes.

12. Rialto Beach & Hole-in-the-Wall

47.9172919,-124.65998172, map

Rialto Beach is known for its rugged beauty, sea stacks, and the iconic Hole-in-the-Wall rock formation. This coastal area offers stunning views and the opportunity to go tide-pooling.

13. La Push Beaches

47.8906012,-124.5991532, map

La Push is a coastal area with sea stacks. It encompasses several stunning beaches, including First Beach, Second Beach, and Third Beach. You may have heard of La Push from the Twilight movies, but the filming location was in Ecola State Park on the Oregon Coast instead.

14. Ruby Beach

47.710871,-124.4360019, map

Ruby Beach is a photographer’s paradise with sea stacks, tide pools, and driftwood-strewn shores.

Photo Tip: Go at sunset on a clear summer day for the best light when the sea stacks are bathing in golden light.

15. Staircase Rapids Loop

47.516244,-123.3310275, map

Staircase Rapids Loop is a scenic trail in the Staircase area, known for its lush forests, tranquil river, and captivating scenery. The loop provides a moderate hike with opportunities to witness the beauty of the North Fork Skokomish River.

More Things to Do in Olympic National Park

  • Lake Quinault: a serene lake surrounded by ancient forests.
  • Mount Ellinor: Summit hike with panoramic views.
  • Spruce Railroad Trail: A lakeside trail with historical significance.
  • Olympic Discovery Trail: Multi-use trail spanning the peninsula.
  • Dungeness Spit Wildlife Refuge: (not technically in Olympic National Park) Coastal wildlife and a striking spit.

Olympic National Park Visitor Centers

Here are the Olympic National Park Visitor Centers:

Olympic National Park Visitor Center
3002 Mount Angeles Road
Port Angeles, WA 98362
Open daily year-round; closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
Open 9 AM – 4 PM in fall and winter. Hours vary according to season.
The Wilderness Information Center is located here as well.

Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center
The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center burned down in May 2023 and has limited capacity at this time.
See updated info here.

Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center
18113 Upper Hoh Rd.
Forks, WA 98331
Open Friday-Sunday, 10 AM to 4:30 PM, and closed January/February.
Open daily in summer; Hours vary according to season.

Kalaloch Ranger Station
156954 U.S. Highway 101
Forks, WA 98331
Closed fall/winter.
Please call 360-565-3131 for the latest summer and spring hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Olympic National Park?

The best time to visit depends on your preferences. Late spring to early fall provides the best hiking weather and wildlife viewing, while winter offers a snowy landscape for snow adventures. Waterfalls are at peak flow during spring. July and August bring wildflowers, September and October have fall foliage, and November and December are great for the salmon run.

Is it free to visit Olympic National Park? Are there entrance fees for Olympic National Park?

Yes, there are entrance fees. Click here to see the cost for different vehicles. Annual passes are also available for those planning multiple visits.

How do I get to Olympic National Park?

Most visitors drive to the park. From Seattle, take US-101 west. Ferries from Seattle to Bainbridge Island or Edmonds to Kingston offer scenic routes. The park has multiple entrances, so choose based on your destination. For more details, click here.

Are there camping options within the park?

Yes, there are several campgrounds in Olympic National Park. Some require reservations, and availability varies. Click here for more details.

What are the must-see attractions in the park?

Key attractions include Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest, Lake Crescent, and Ruby Beach. Each region offers unique landscapes, from alpine peaks to coastal beauty. See our full list here.

Are there hiking trails suitable for all skill levels?

The park offers trails for all skill levels, from easy walks like Hall of Mosses to challenging hikes like Mount Storm King.

Can I see wildlife in the park?

Olympic National Park has diverse wildlife, including elk, deer, bears, and eagles. Be cautious and maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife.

Are there ranger-led programs or guided tours?

The park offers ranger-led programs, guided tours, and educational activities. Check with visitor centers for the latest schedule and availability.

Can I bring my pet to Olympic National Park?

Pets are allowed in some park areas but must be on leash. However, most trails do not permit pets.

Are there visitor centers in the park?

Olympic National Park has several visitor centers, including the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center and the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center. They provide information, maps, and educational exhibits. See details here.

What weather can I expect in Olympic National Park?

Weather varies by region. Coastal areas are milder, while alpine regions are colder. Check the forecast, and be prepared for temperature changes, especially at higher elevations.

Can I fish in Olympic National Park?

Fishing is allowed in some park waters. Check fishing regulations and obtain the required permits. Some areas are catch-and-release only.

Are there dining options within the park?

Dining options are limited, so consider packing in food, especially for longer hikes or visits to remote areas.

Can you do Olympic National Park in 1 day? Can I visit multiple regions of the park in one day?

While it’s possible to visit multiple regions, the park’s vastness may require focused visits to appreciate each area thoroughly. We would recommend at least spending two days in the park.

Are there shuttle services in the park?

Olympic National Park does not have a park-wide shuttle system. Personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Consider carpooling for group visits.

How long is the drive through Olympic National Park?

The scenic loop takes approximately eight hours.

How many waterfalls are at Olympic National Park?

There are 25 waterfalls in Olympic National Park (and possibly more smaller, unnamed waterfalls). You can see 24 using this Olympic Peninsula Waterfall Trail brochure.

Camping in Olympic National Park

There are multiple campgrounds in Olympic National Park.

DEER PARK CAMPGROUND

  • Season: June – mid-October (check road conditions)
  • Reservations: First come, first served.
  • Sites and Fees: 14 total sites, $15 per night.
  • RVs: Tents only.
  • Facilities: Pit toilets and no potable water.

DOSEWALLIPS CAMPGROUND

  • Season: Year-round
  • Reservations: First come, first served.
  • Fees: No fee
  • RVs: Tents only. No vehicle access.
  • Facilities: Pit toilets and no potable water.

FAIRHOLME CAMPGROUND

  • 2023 Season: April 21 – September 26
  • Reservations:
    • Make reservations at recreation.gov.
    • Sites may be reserved up to 6 months, two weeks, or four days in advance.
    • Any unreserved or canceled sites will be sold in person at the ranger tent in the parking lot at the Fairholme boat dock during posted hours.
    • Campsites are first come, first served outside the reservation period.
  • Sites and Fees: 88 total sites, $24 per night. Dump station is $10 per use.
  • RVs: Sites for 21 feet, some sites up to 35 feet.
  • Facilities: Flush toilets, potable water, and dump station

GRAVES CREEK CAMPGROUND

  • Season: Year-round.
  • Reservations: First come, first served.
  • Sites and Fees: 30 total sites, $20 per night.
  • RVs: Due to road conditions, RVs and trailers are not allowed.
  • Facilities: Pit toilets and no running water.

HEART O’ THE HILLS CAMPGROUND

  • Season: Year-round. Walk-in only during heavy snowfall.
  • Reservations: First come, first served.
  • Sites and Fees: 97 total sites, $24 per night.
  • RVs: Sites for 21 feet, a few for 35 feet. No dump station.
  • Facilities: Flush toilets and potable water.

HOH RAIN FOREST CAMPGROUND

  • Season: Year-round; first-come, first-served outside of reservation season.
  • Reservations:
    • Make reservations at recreation.gov.
    • Sites may be reserved up to 6 months, two weeks, or four days in advance.
    • Any unreserved or canceled sites will be sold at the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center.
    • Campsites are first come, first served outside the reservation period.
  • Sites and Fees: 78 total sites, $24 per night.
  • RVs: Sites for 21 feet, a few up to 35 feet. No dump station.
  • Facilities: Flush toilets and potable water.

KALALOCH CAMPGROUND

  • Season: Year-round; first-come, first-served outside of reservation season.
  • Reservations:
    • Make reservations on recreation.gov.
    • Sites may be reserved up to 6 months, two weeks, or 4 days in advance.
    • Campsites are first come, first served outside the reservation period.
  • Sites and Fees: 170 total sites, $24 per night. Dump station is $10 per use.
  • RVs: Sites for 21 feet, a few for 35 feet.
  • Facilities: Flush toilets, potable water, and dump station.

LOG CABIN RESORT RV & CAMPGROUND

  • 2023 Season: May 19 – October 5
  • Reservations: Please call 888-896-3818 to reserve a tent camping or RV site.
  • Sites and Fees: 38 total sites, $25-$44 per night, depending on campsite.
  • RVs: Sites for up to 35 feet. RV sites offer full hookups with electricity and sewer.
  • Facilities: Restrooms with flush toilets and showers; potable water; laundry.

MORA CAMPGROUND

  • Season: Year-round; first-come, first-served outside of reservation season.
  • Reservations:
    • Make reservations at recreation.gov.
    • Sites may be reserved up to 6 months, 2 weeks, or 4 days in advance.
    • Any unreserved or canceled sites will be sold at the Mora Ranger Station.
    • Campsites are first come, first served outside the reservation period.
  • Sites and Fees: 94 total sites, $24 per night. Dump station is $10 per use.
  • RVs: Sites for 21 feet, a few for 35 feet.
  • Facilities: Flush toilets, potable water, and dump station.

NORTH FORK CAMPGROUND

  • Season: Year-round.
  • Reservations: First come, first served.
  • Sites and Fees: 9 total sites, $20 per night.
  • RVs: Not recommended for RVs and trailers.
  • Facilities: Pit toilets and no running water.

OZETTE CAMPGROUND

  • Season: Year-round. Some sites flood in winter.
  • Reservations: First come, first served.
  • Sites and Fees: 15 total sites, $20 per night.
  • RVs: Sites for 21 feet.
  • Facilities: Pit toilets, potable water

QUEETS CAMPGROUND

  • Season: Year-round.
  • Reservations: First come, first served.
  • Sites and Fees: 20 total sites, $15 per night.
  • RVs: RVs and trailers are not recommended.
  • Facilities: Pit toilets and no running water.

SOL DUC HOT SPRINGS RV PARK & CAMPGROUND

  • 2023 Season: April 7 – October 28 (at checkout time)
  • Reservations: Make reservations at recreation.gov.
  • Sites and Fees:
    • Campground: 82 total sites, $25+ tax if walk-in; $29+ tax if reserved; a dump station is $10 per use.
    • RV Park: Gravel parking lot with 17 RV sites. Limited privacy in this area. Back-in spaces only. No pull-through sites. Rates are $51+ tax.
  • RVs: Campground sites can accommodate 21 feet (a few for 35 feet). The RV Park can accommodate vehicles from 26 feet to 36 feet.
  • Facilities: The campground has flush toilets and running water. Restrooms are located in the campground only, which is ¼ mile from the RV Park. The RV Park has water and electrical hookups.

SOUTH BEACH CAMPGROUND

  • 2023 Season: May 19 – October 10
  • Reservations: First come, first served.
  • Sites and Fees: 55 total sites, $20 per night.
  • RVs: Sites for 21 feet, a few for 35 feet.
  • Facilities: No potable water. Flush toilets available.

STAIRCASE CAMPGROUND

  • 2023-2024 Season: April 1 – October 31
  • Reservations:
    • Make reservations at recreation.gov.
    • Sites may be reserved up to 2 weeks or one day in advance.
    • Campsites are first come, first served outside the reservation period.
  • Sites and Fees: 49 total sites, five walk-in sites only, $24 per night.
  • RVs: Sites for 21 feet, a few for 35 feet.
  • Facilities: Flush toilets and potable water available when campground is open

Where to Stay in Olympic National Park

Tips for Visiting Olympic National Park

  • Plan Ahead: Research the park’s regions and attractions to create a customized itinerary based on your interests. Consider the time of year, weather conditions, and your activities.
  • Explore Diverse Regions: Olympic National Park offers a range of ecosystems, from alpine peaks to coastal beaches. Each area provides unique opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.
  • Embrace the Outdoors: Take advantage of the park’s numerous hiking trails and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or prefer easy walks, there are options for all skill levels. Pack hiking essentials, including layers, comfortable shoes, water, and snacks.
  • Attend Ranger-Led Programs: Join ranger-led programs and activities to get insights into the park’s natural and cultural history. Attend guided hikes, talks, and stargazing events to enhance your understanding of Olympic National Park’s unique features.
  • Respect Nature and Wildlife: Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Respect wildlife by observing from a safe distance, and do not feed them. Stay on designated trails to preserve fragile ecosystems. Being a responsible visitor helps conserve the park’s natural beauty for future generations.
  • Check for Alerts and Conditions: Before your visit, check for park alerts, trail conditions, and weather updates to ensure a smoother experience.
  • Check Webcams to see current conditions.

What to Pack

Planning Checklist

Have you been to Olympic National Park? What are some great spots that you’ve visited? Or what’s your favorite excursion here?

Esther and JacobPin

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.