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Olympic National Park

Overview

Olympic National Park is a place of extraordinary diversity, where rugged mountains, lush forests, and wild coastlines come together in one spectacular landscape. Recognized as both a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site, the park offers an unparalleled variety of ecosystems to explore, from glacier-capped peaks to temperate rainforests and tide-pool-rich beaches.

On a Wilderness Inquiry trip, you’ll hike the longest stretch of protected coastal wilderness in the lower 48 states, exploring tidal pools, scenic beaches, and fascinating sea life. Inland, you’ll wander through old-growth forests of Sitka spruce, cedar, and hemlock, where mosses and ferns carpet the ground and wildlife thrives. Elk, black-tailed deer, and even the rare Olympic marmot call this magical landscape home.

No visit would be complete without a trek up Hurricane Ridge, where sweeping views of Mount Olympus and its glistening glaciers await. Each day offers a new adventure and breathtaking scenery, with comfortable lodge accommodations to relax in at night. With its blend of wild beauty and welcoming hospitality, Olympic National Park is the perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and wonder.

Olympic National Park Map

Olympic National Park - Things to do:

🏘️ Stay in a cozy lodge
🥾 Hike scenic mountain trails
🏔️ View mountainous vistas
🌿 Trek through the rainforest
🌊 Explore coastal beaches
🛥️ Enjoy a ferry ride

Olympic National Park - Trip Review:

“Hiking in the Hoh rainforest was spectacular — so green, wet, and mysterious! At 80 years old, I was proud that I could keep up with the others on the hikes, even if a bit slower.” – Olympic National Park Lodge-Based Hike and Explore

Olympic National Park: Tours and Trips

Olympic National Park Lodge-Based Hike and Explore
5 days
Lodge / Hotel
Hiking
Olympic National Park, Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA, USA
$2635 (Adult)
Book now

What is the weather like in Olympic National Park?

Olympic National Park is known for its diverse climates. The western side is home to lush, rain-soaked temperate rainforests, while the eastern side is much drier. In the mountains, winters bring heavy snow, especially at Hurricane Ridge, which can receive over 30 feet of snowfall annually. Summers (June–September) are generally the driest and sunniest months, with daytime highs in the 65–75°F range.

How do you get to Olympic National Park?

Most visitors fly into Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) and drive about 2.5 hours to reach the park. Another option is to take a ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton, then continue by car to Port Angeles, one of the main gateway towns. Highway 101 loops around the Olympic Peninsula, providing access to many areas of the park.

What hikes are popular in Olympic National Park?

Olympic is home to a wide variety of hiking options. The Hurricane Hill Trail offers panoramic mountain and water views and is popular for its accessibility. The Hall of Mosses Trail in the Hoh Rainforest showcases lush greenery and towering trees. Along the coast, the Ozette Loop provides a stunning multi-day hiking experience with ocean views, sea stacks, and wildlife.

What is the best time to visit Olympic National Park?

The best time to visit is from June through September, when the weather is most favorable and trails, roads, and services are open. Wildflowers bloom in alpine meadows during summer, and wildlife is active throughout the park. Fall brings fewer crowds and brilliant foliage, while winter offers solitude, snowshoeing, and skiing at Hurricane Ridge, though some areas may be inaccessible.

Can you camp in Olympic National Park?

Olympic National Park offers both front-country campgrounds and backcountry camping. Popular campgrounds such as Hoh, Kalaloch, Mora, Fairholme, and Staircase are open seasonally, and some require reservations during peak months. Backcountry or wilderness camping is also available with permits. Campfires are typically restricted to designated rings due to wildfire risks.

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