Olympic National Park, located in the state of Washington, is a true natural gem that offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, from lush rainforests to wild beaches and majestic mountains. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK Access: From Seattle, the best way is to take the ferry to Bainbridge Island, then drive to the peninsula's north to Port Angeles. Departures are generally frequent, but if you wish to board with your vehicle, we recommend arriving early. Season: The park is open year-round, but Hurricane Ridge Road only opens Friday through Sunday in winter (with snow chains). Precipitation can be significant in the region but is less frequent in summer (between June and September). Visitor Centers:
Shuttle service within the park? No. |
NORTH SECTION
The northern section of Olympic Park holds some treasures to explore and incredible landscapes to admire!
PORT ANGELES
Port Angeles is an excellent base for discovering the north of Olympic National Park. This dynamic small port is surrounded by the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Salish Sea to the north and the park's high peaks to the south. The vastness of its neighbors has given the city a semi-maritime, semi-mountainous atmosphere reflected in the local culture and cuisine. Note that a ferry line connects Port Angeles to the Canadian island of Victoria, just 40 kilometers to the north.
HURRICANE RIDGE
Easily accessible and ideal for mountain scenery enthusiasts, Hurricane Ridge is located just 27 kilometers from Port Angeles. The road to reach it is open year-round but restricted to weekends only in winter and subject to weather conditions.
If the sky is clear and the weather is favorable, Hurricane Ridge offers breathtaking panoramas, among the most beautiful in the park! The site delights hikers, with numerous hiking trails connecting the nearby valleys and lakes.
In winter, activities adapt to the snow with opportunities for snowshoeing, sledding, and cross-country skiing.
MADISON FALLS
The Madison Falls waterfall is accessible via a superb hiking trail shaded by gigantic, centuries-old trees.
MOUNT OLYMPUS
The park's highest point is a prime challenge for experienced mountaineers. The ascent offers breathtaking panoramic views and crosses impressive glaciers.
LAKE CRESCENT
This lake stretches 19 kilometers long and only 2 kilometers wide in a curved line that gives it its name. It's a refreshing spot on sunny days, with a beach and a diving pier.
Lake Crescent was deeply carved by glaciers and is now bordered by a scenic road where you can admire the towering snow-capped peaks reflected in the turquoise waters.
WEST SECTION
Heading west of the park, other exciting spots punctuate the journey.
SOL DUC
The winding Sol Duc River is partially lined by a road that descends southward and crossed by many trails popular with hikers. You might encounter some salmon making their way up the valley to reach the surrounding lakes!
FORKS
The small town boasts of being the rainiest in the continental United States, believe it or not! Another local curiosity is the Swan House, which inspired Stephenie Meyer for writing her Twilight saga. Some nods linked to the famous vampires are scattered throughout the village.
LA PUSH
The park's west coast is lined by the vastness of the Pacific Ocean, offering a variety of maritime landscapes alongside the mountains. The village of La Push perfectly illustrates the coastal beauty, with its vast beach and rock formations. It is part of the Quileute people's Indian reservation.
This stretch of coast features several particularly enticing beaches: Rialto Beach to the north, followed by First, Second, and Third Beaches as you head south.
HOH RAIN FOREST
Heading south, a detour to Hoh Rain Forest is a must! It is home to one of the world's most famous temperate rainforests, with well-marked trails like the Hall of Mosses and the Spruce Nature Trail, allowing you to explore this dense, verdant forest. The Visitor Center welcomes you on-site to assist your exploration.
KALALOCH
The lovely beach of Kalaloch makes for an interesting stop on the way south through Olympic National Park. Don't miss the Tree of Life, a tree straddling two ridges in a balancing act.
QUINAULT
Quinault is both the name of the Indian reservation that stretches along the coast and the town bordered by a lake to the east of the coast. The region boasts countless hiking trails and as many river meanders. Exploring it means encountering its enormous trees, fine waterfalls cascading down cliffs, and diverse wildlife.
Olympic National Park is an idyllic destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an incredible variety of landscapes and activities. Whether you're seeking forest hikes, relaxation on wild beaches, or wildlife observation, this park promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of nature. Plan your visit to discover the natural wonders and tranquility that this preserved corner of Washington State can offer.
NEARBY
Stopping between the ferry landing from Seattle and the arrival in Port Angeles allows you to appreciate the Dungeness Reserve, renowned for bird and marine wildlife observation. The Dungeness Spit trail, between the forest and the sea, offers splendid views of the bay! |