Olympic National Park offers a diverse range of scenic viewpoints accessible by car, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. From the towering peaks of Hurricane Ridge to the serene shores of Lake Crescent, the park’s drivable viewpoints provide stunning vistas of mountains, forests, lakes, and coastlines. This guide explores the best drivable viewpoints in Olympic National Park, offering detailed information on locations, amenities, and scenic drives to help you plan your visit.
What Are the Top Drivable Viewpoints in Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park boasts several easily accessible viewpoints that offer breathtaking panoramas without requiring strenuous hikes. Here are the top drivable viewpoints:
- Hurricane Ridge
- Elevation: 5,200 feet
- GPS Coordinates: 47.9733, -123.5383
- Amenities: Large parking lot, restrooms, picnic areas, visitor center, snack bar
- Views: Olympic Mountains, Strait of Juan de Fuca
-
Best for: Sunset and sunrise viewing
-
Lake Crescent Viewpoint
- GPS Coordinates: 48.0622, -123.7833
- Amenities: Multiple parking areas, restrooms, picnic spots, boat launches
-
Views: Pristine glacial lake surrounded by lush forests
-
Elwha River Observation Area
- GPS Coordinates: 48.0333, -123.5667
- Amenities: Designated parking, restrooms, picnic tables
- Views: Elwha River and surrounding landscape
-
Special feature: Focus on river restoration after dam removal
-
Ruby Beach
- GPS Coordinates: 47.7083, -124.4333
- Amenities: Large parking lot, restrooms, picnic tables
- Views: Scenic coastline, tidepools, unique rose-colored sand
-
Best for: Beach exploration and sunset viewing
-
Sol Duc Valley
- GPS Coordinates: 48.0667, -123.7833
- Amenities: Multiple parking areas, restrooms, picnic spots, hot springs
- Views: Sol Duc Falls, lush forests
- Special features: Access to hot springs and hiking trails
How Can You Experience the Best Scenic Drives in Olympic National Park?
To fully appreciate the park’s diverse landscapes, consider these scenic drives:
- Hurricane Ridge Drive
- Distance: 17 miles (Port Angeles to Hurricane Ridge)
- Drive time: 45-60 minutes
- Key stops:
- Olympic National Park Visitor Center
- Heart O’ the Hills Campground
- Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center
-
Highlights: Panoramic mountain views, subalpine meadows
-
Lake Crescent Loop
- Distance: 17 miles
- Drive time: 30-45 minutes
- Key stops:
- Lake Crescent Lodge
- Marymere Falls Trailhead
- Various picnic areas
-
Highlights: Serene lake views, access to hiking trails
-
Quinault Rain Forest Loop
- Distance: 30 miles
- Drive time: 1-2 hours
- Key stops:
- Lake Quinault Lodge
- Quinault Rainforest Nature Trail
- Quinault Indian Reservation
- Highlights: Temperate rainforest, Lake Quinault, wildlife spotting
What Accessible Viewpoints Are Available in Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park offers several viewpoints that are accessible to visitors with mobility limitations:
- Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center
- Accessibility features: Paved paths, wheelchair-accessible restrooms and facilities
- Parking: Designated accessible spots
-
Note: Some trails may have limitations
-
Lake Crescent Viewpoint
- Accessibility features: Paved parking areas, some paved paths to viewpoints
-
Note: Main viewpoints are accessible, but some trails may not be suitable for all visitors
-
Ruby Beach
- Accessibility features: Paved parking area, short paved path to initial viewpoint
- Note: Beach itself is not fully accessible due to sand and rocks
What Are the Most Impressive Overlooks in Olympic National Park?
For those seeking the most awe-inspiring views, consider these top overlooks:
- Hurricane Ridge Overlook
- Elevation: 5,200 feet
- Views: Olympic Mountains, Strait of Juan de Fuca, subalpine meadows
- Nearby trails: Hurricane Hill Trail, Klahhane Ridge Trail
-
Seasonal note: Road may be closed in winter due to snow
-
Lake Crescent Overlook
- Elevation: 600-800 feet
- Views: Lake Crescent, surrounding forests
- Nearby trails: Marymere Falls Trail, Spruce Railroad Trail
-
Seasonal note: Generally accessible year-round
-
Sol Duc Valley Overlook
- Elevation: 1,900 feet (at Sol Duc Hot Springs area)
- Views: Sol Duc River, forests, nearby mountains
- Nearby trails: Sol Duc Falls Trail, Lover’s Lane Trail
- Seasonal note: Road to Sol Duc Hot Springs may close in winter
How Should You Plan Your Visit to Olympic National Park’s Drivable Viewpoints?
To make the most of your visit to Olympic National Park’s drivable viewpoints, consider the following tips:
- Timing:
- Visit during shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) for fewer crowds
-
Plan for sunrise or sunset at Hurricane Ridge for spectacular views
-
Weather:
- Check weather conditions before your visit, especially in winter
-
Be prepared for rapid weather changes, particularly at higher elevations
-
Itinerary Planning:
- Allow at least 2-3 days to explore the main drivable viewpoints
-
Combine viewpoint visits with short hikes for a more immersive experience
-
Safety:
- Carry a park map and be aware of your surroundings
-
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially for longer drives
-
Photography:
- Bring a wide-angle lens for capturing expansive views
- Consider a tripod for low-light conditions at sunrise or sunset
By following these guidelines and exploring the diverse drivable viewpoints in Olympic National Park, you’ll be able to experience the park’s stunning beauty without venturing far from your vehicle. Whether you’re seeking mountain vistas, serene lakes, or rugged coastlines, Olympic National Park’s drivable viewpoints offer something for every nature enthusiast.
References:
1. Olympic National Park, Port Angeles, WA, USA – Latitude and Longitude Coordinates and General Information
2. Olympic National Park Tour: Self-Guided Drive – Detailed Tour Information and Key Stops
3. Points of Interest for Olympic National Parks & Forest – Scenic Drives, Viewpoints, and Accessibility Information