Olympic National Park offers a diverse range of activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. From hiking through lush rainforests to kayaking in pristine lakes, the park provides unique experiences in its varied ecosystems. Visitors can explore scenic drives, observe wildlife, and immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty. This guide covers the top-rated activities, hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, kayaking options, and scenic drives within Olympic National Park.
What Are the Top-Rated Hiking Trails in Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park boasts an array of hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. Here are some of the most popular trails:
Hoh Rainforest Trail
- Length: Hall of Mosses (0.8-mile loop), Spruce Nature Trail (1.2-mile loop)
- Difficulty: Easy, suitable for families
- Amenities: Restrooms and parking at the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center
- Description: Experience one of the largest temperate rainforests in the U.S., featuring towering trees and diverse wildlife
Hurricane Ridge
- Length: Hurricane Hill (3.5-mile round trip), High Ridge Trail (shorter)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, visitor center with warming hut and snack bar
- Description: Offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and access to various hiking trails
Sol Duc Falls
- Length: 1.6 miles round trip (easy) or 6 miles round trip via Lovers Lane Loop (challenging)
- Amenities: Parking and restrooms at the trailhead
- Description: Leads to a triple waterfall with a wooden bridge viewpoint
Marymere Falls
- Length: Approximately 2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy with some steps at the end
- Amenities: Parking and restrooms in the Lake Crescent area
- Description: Easy hike through old-growth forest to a beautiful waterfall
Rialto Beach and Hole-in-the-Wall
- Length: 3 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy but walking in sand
- Amenities: Parking near the beach
- Description: Beach hike featuring sea stacks, tide pools, and the unique Hole-in-the-Wall rock formation
Where Are the Best Wildlife Viewing Opportunities in Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities across its diverse ecosystems:
Locations and Wildlife
- Hoh Rainforest
- Roosevelt elk
- Black bears
- Deer
-
Northern spotted owl
-
Beaches (Kalaloch and Rialto)
- Whale watching (various species)
-
Marine life in tide pools
-
Lake Crescent
- Black bears
- Deer
Best Viewing Times
- Spring and Fall: Ideal for whale watching from beaches
- Year-round: Wildlife viewing in Hoh Rainforest and other areas
Important Notes
- No specific permits required for general wildlife viewing
- Follow park regulations and maintain a safe distance from wildlife
What Kayaking Options Are Available in Olympic National Park?
Kayaking is a popular activity in Olympic National Park, offering unique perspectives of the park’s aquatic environments:
Popular Locations
- Lake Crescent
- Glacially carved lake
- Ideal for canoeing and kayaking
-
Catch-and-release fishing only
-
Strait of Juan de Fuca
- Sea kayaking trips available
- Opportunities to see sea stacks, harbor seals, and marine life
Rental Services and Guided Tours
- Elevate Outdoors: Offers guided sea kayaking day trips
- Various local outfitters provide kayak rentals and guided tours
Costs and Considerations
- Guided tours: $100 to $200 per person for a day trip
- Best season: Summer and early fall for calmer waters and better weather
- Safety: Always check weather and sea conditions, wear appropriate safety gear
What Are the Must-See Scenic Drives in Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park features stunning scenic drives that showcase its diverse landscapes:
Hurricane Ridge Road
- Distance: Approximately 17 miles from Port Angeles to Hurricane Ridge
- Highlights:
- Stunning views of Olympic Mountains
- Panoramic vistas from Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center
- Access: Generally open mid-July through October (check current conditions)
- Fees: No additional fee beyond park entrance fee
Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (US-101)
- Distance: Approximately 73 miles of wilderness coast within the park
- Highlights:
- Stops at Ruby Beach, Kalaloch Beach, and Rialto Beach
- Sea stacks, tide pools, and wildlife viewing opportunities
- Access: Open year-round, but some areas may have seasonal accessibility
- Fees: No additional fee beyond park entrance fee
By exploring these activities, visitors can experience the diverse ecosystems and natural wonders that make Olympic National Park a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.