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Discover the wonders of Olympic National Park, nestled in Washington State’s picturesque Olympic Peninsula. This expansive park caters to all nature enthusiasts, providing a diverse range of experiences for hikers, stargazers, boaters, and photographers alike. Spanning nearly 1 million acres, it presents an opportunity to delve into glacier-capped mountains, traverse ancient temperate rainforests, and be captivated by over 70 miles of untamed coastline.
In 1897, due to increasing worries about the vanishing forests in the area, President Grover Cleveland took action and established the Olympic Forest Reserve. Recognizing the need for additional safeguards, President Theodore Roosevelt designated a portion of the reserve as the Mount Olympus National Monument in 1909, responding to the decline of the Roosevelt Elk population. However, it wasn’t until 1938, under the administration of President Franklin Roosevelt, that the park formally attained its national park status. Presently, the park holds the prestigious titles of being a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve.
When planning your visit to Olympic National Park, keep in mind that July and August are the prime months to go. During this time, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The park offers a wide range of programs and services during these months, ensuring there’s plenty to see and do. To stay informed about the latest happenings, check out the Olympic Bugler, the park’s digital newsletter, which provides an updated list of seasonal activities. While the park is open 24 hours a day throughout the year, it’s worth noting that from October to May, certain roads, campgrounds, and visitor facilities may have limited accessibility or be closed altogether.
Here are some of our favorite things to do while visiting Olympic National Park. Select what you would like to do!
The Hoh Rain Forest is a beautiful place with lots of rain. It gets between 140 to 170 inches of rainfall every year. This makes it really green and full of life. The trees and everything else are covered in mosses and ferns. The National Park …
Located just 17 miles south of Port Angeles, Hurricane Ridge serves as the park’s most accessible mountain area. When the weather is clear, the views it offers are truly breathtaking. Visitors often find themselves at a loss for words when …
Kalaloch, situated on the southwest coast of the Olympic Peninsula, is a highly popular destination within Olympic National Park. This area holds significant value for marine life and is safeguarded by three national wildlife refuges. It serves as a …
Lake Crescent, a stunning lake formed many millennia ago through the slow movement of glaciers, boasts remarkable clarity and is adorned with magnificent features sculpted by icy forces. With depths reaching 624 feet at certain spots, it stands as a …
Situated approximately 40 miles southwest of Lake Crescent and around 70 miles from Port Angeles, Rialto Beach presents awe-inspiring coastal views. This remarkable destination provides an excellent opportunity to observe a variety of marine …
Make sure to start your visit to Olympic National Park in Port Angeles, Washington at the visitor center. Recent visitors highly recommend it as the first stop. The center offers a variety of exhibits that showcase the park’s natural and cultural …
The Sol Duc Valley in the northwest region of the park is a great place to explore. It has numerous trails for you to enjoy, with one of the most popular being the hike to the Sol Duc Falls overlook. People who have recently visited the falls have …
In the southeastern corner of Olympic National Park lies Staircase, a stunning area filled with majestic Douglas firs. Here, you can explore various hiking trails that wind through the Skokomish River and the nearby forests. One such trail is the …