Although the number of epic places to visit in Olympic National Park can be overwhelming, we’ll help you choose where to go with this list of 10 epic places to visit in Olympic National Park! Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse national parks we’e ever visited. Home to one of the largest temperate rainforests in the United States, several moody and rugged beaches, beautiful lakes, and mountain peaks, there’s not shortage of places to explore.
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Where to Stay in Olympic National Park
If you are choosing to travel to all of these places to visit in Olympic National Park on this list, it may make sense to stay in several areas to minimize driving time. Both times we’ve visited Olympic, we’ve chosen to stay near Port Angeles and Lake Crescent as our home base.
Port Angeles: Located about 2.5 hours from Seattle, Port Angeles is a charming port town with a variety of shops, restaurants, art galleries, wineries and more. It’s situated close to Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent and is a great place to stay at the beginning of your trip. We stayed at a beautiful AirBnb near Port Angeles that sleeps 6, known as the Cove. Located on Lake Sutherland (adjacent to Lake Crescent), it has the most beautiful lake views, kayaks and canoes for your use, and a cozy fireplace. This area has tons of cute and cozy cabins that feel secluded, but are close to the city. The city of Port Angeles is also home to several parks and trails, including the famous 130 mile Olympic Discovery Trail.
Forks: Best known as the setting for the popular “Twilight” book and movie series. It is located near the Hoh Rainforest and the Sol Duc Hot Springs. Forks is closer to the coastline and a great place to stay after Port Angeles if you don’t want to spend much time in the car.
When to visit these places in Olympic National Park
Most of these places to visit in Olympic National Park can be visited year round; however, some areas and trails may be inaccessible during the winter. During the summer, everything should be open, but expect crowds. During the winter, Hurricane Ridge is only open on the weekends and snow chains are required. Sol Duc Road is closed in winter. Be sure to check the park website for current road and trail conditions. When we went in March, a few roads were closed due to wash outs. No matter what time of year it is, don’t forget your rain jacket!
10 Epic Places to Visit in Olympic National Park
Don’t forget to download offline trail maps with the AllTrails app!
1. Hoh Rainforest
The Hoh Rainforest is one of the most magical places we’ve been. It’s a temperate rainforest known for its otherworldly landscape of moss covered trees and lush vegetation.
There are several options to explore here. The Hall of Mosses is an easy 1 mile loop that will showcase the best of the rainforest. The Spruce Nature Trail is a 1.2 mile trail that is an easy 30 minute add-on to view more of the lush vegetation like cedars, fern, and maples.
If you’ve got a lot of time, the Hoh River Trail takes you on a walk along the Hoh River from the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center to Glacier Meadows, near the base of Mount Olympus. This 17 mile trail is best for backpacking, but you can just walk a little bit of it if you’re short on time.
2. Ruby Beach
There are many beaches at Olympic National Park, and each one has a unique vibe. Ruby Beach is known for its sea stacks, tide pools, and dramatic rock formations. There are several hiking trails, but the beach is just a short walk from the large parking lot.
3. Kalaloch Beach and Kalaloch Tree of Life
Another moody coastal beach, Kalaloch Beach is known for the historic Kalaloch Lodge and the unique Kalaloch Tree of Life. The Kalaloch Tree of Life is a Sitka spruce that has managed to grow on a small, rocky island just off the shore of the beach, giving the tree the appearance of being suspended in air as the roots are above ground.
The tree has become a popular attraction for visitors to the area, and it is considered a symbol of the resilience and adaptability of nature. Despite its challenging location, the Kalaloch Tree of Life has managed to survive and thrive, providing a beautiful and inspiring sight for those who visit.
4. Rialto Beach
Yet another rugged beach, Rialto Beach is a must visit at Olympic National Park. One of the most popular trails at Rialto Beach is the 3.3 mile round trip Hole in the Wall trail. It ends at a natural arch that has been carved out of the rock by the ocean.
Visitors can walk through the arch at low tide and see a giant sea stack framed by the arch. Keep your eyes out for bald eagles and search the tidal pools for starfish and other sea creatures!
We watched the sunset from this beach and it was epic. Plan for some extra time getting around though because you’ll be walking through sand.
5. Madison Falls
This stunning waterfall is easily accessible by a short 0.1 mile trail. It’s close proximity to Port Angeles makes it an easy stop.
6. Hurricane Ridge
During the summer, you’ll find tons of epic hiking trails, wildflowers, and alpine scenery. During the winter, skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing are available; however, the road to Hurricane Ridge is only open Friday to Sunday during the winter. The NPS requires you to carry snow chains. There are webcams on the park website where you can check current conditions as well. The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center is usually open when the road is open and has facilities including restrooms, exhibits, a park film, and warming area. Ranger led snowshoe walks are sometimes available too.
7. Sol Duc Falls
We unfortunately haven’t done this trail as Sol Duc Road closes during the winter; however, this trail is a must if the road is open. This short 1.6 mile hike will take you to a magnificent waterfall formed by the Sol Duc River. It drops over a series of cascades before plummeting into a narrow canyon. The rail is accessible from the Sol Duc Hot Springs resort where you can soak and relax.
8. Mount Storm King Trail
This trail is challenging at 4.7 miles round trip with a steep 2000 feet of elevation gain; however, the reward is worth the challenge.
The steep and rocky trail features ropes, multiple switchbacks, and some scrambling at the top. The stunning panoramic views from the top make the effort well worth it.
Once at the summit, hikers can enjoy stunning views of Lake Crescent and the surrounding mountains, including Mount Olympus and the Bailey Range.
This trail has many steep, dirt paths which can be slippery especially when muddy. Wear hiking shoes with solid tread like these Merrell hiking boots.
9. Marymere Falls Trail
Leaving from the same trailhead as Mount Storm King, the short 1.8 mile round trip trail to Marymere Falls is a perfect showcase of everything Olympic National Park has to offer. You’ll pass moss covered trees, bridges, ferns and other lush vegetation as you walk to the beautiful 90 foot roaring falls. There is a loop and stairs near the waterfall so you can get several perspectives. This trail is amazing for photography.
10. Lake Crescent
If driving from Port Angeles, Lake Crescent will likely be your first stop on your Olympic National Park itinerary. Prepare to be amazed by its crystal-clear, turquoise-blue waters! Several trails depart from lake Crescent including Marymere Falls and Mount Storm King. You can also swim and kayak. The historic Lake Crescent Lodge is located on the shores of the lake.
Conclusion
There are so many amazing places to visit at Olympic National Park and this list of things to do is definitely not comprehensive. If you have more time, consider checking out Cape Flattery, the northwestern most point in the contiguous United States! You could also visit the Quinault Rainforest with more time, another temperate rainforest with far less crowds. Which place are you most excited to visit?
