Olympic National Park 35

List of Places to Drive in Olympic National Park: Scenic Routes and Must-See Stops

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Olympic National Park offers a diverse range of driving experiences, from winding mountain roads to coastal highways. This comprehensive list of places to drive in Olympic National Park includes scenic drives, breathtaking viewpoints, popular routes, and essential stops. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-day adventure, these driving options will help you explore the park’s stunning landscapes, from rainforests to rugged coastlines.

What Are the Most Scenic Drives in Olympic National Park?

list of places to drive in olympic national park
Image ‘File:Olympic NP Washington USA3.jpg’ by Jason Pratt from Pittsburgh, PA (FishSpeaker), licensed under CC BY 2.0

Olympic National Park boasts several scenic drives that showcase its diverse landscapes. Here are some of the most picturesque routes:

  1. Hurricane Ridge Road
  2. Length: 17 miles from Port Angeles to Hurricane Ridge
  3. Notable Features: Mountain views, potential wildlife sightings

  4. Seasonal Access: Open 24/7 from mid-May to October; limited access in winter

  5. Obstruction Point Road

  6. Length: 8 miles from Hurricane Ridge parking lot
  7. Notable Features: Narrow, unpaved road with meadow and mountain views

  8. Seasonal Access: Not suitable for RVs; challenging during wet or snowy periods

  9. Lake Crescent Drive

  10. Length: 10 miles along Lake Crescent
  11. Notable Features: Scenic lake views, cliffside driving

  12. Seasonal Access: Open year-round, but slow speeds due to curves and traffic

  13. Queets River Road

  14. Length: 43.5 km (approximately 27 miles)
  15. Notable Features: Easy drive through Queets River valley and rainforest
  16. Seasonal Access: Generally open year-round, subject to weather conditions

Where Are the Best Viewpoints for Drivers in Olympic National Park?

list of places to drive in olympic national park
Image ‘File:Olympic National Park (23130534325).jpg’ by Olympic National Park, licensed under Public domain

While driving through Olympic National Park, you’ll want to stop at these stunning viewpoints:

  1. Hurricane Ridge
  2. Elevation: 5,242 feet
  3. Amenities: Visitor center, trails, restrooms, picnic areas

  4. Parking: Large lot near the visitor center

  5. Obstruction Point

  6. Elevation: 6,150 feet
  7. Amenities: Picnic areas, trailheads

  8. Parking: Limited spaces at road’s end

  9. Cape Flattery

  10. Elevation: Sea level
  11. Amenities: Restrooms, short hiking trail

  12. Parking: Area near trailhead

  13. Pillar Point

  14. Elevation: Sea level
  15. Amenities: Restrooms, short hiking trail
  16. Parking: Area near trailhead

What Are the Popular Driving Routes in Olympic National Park?

For those looking to explore more of the park by car, consider these popular driving routes:

  1. U.S. Highway 101 Auto Tour
  2. Description: Covers diverse landscapes including rainforests, beaches, mountains, and lakes
  3. Duration: Full day to multi-day trip

  4. Road Conditions: Well-maintained highway

  5. Quinault Rain Forest Auto Tour

  6. Description: Tour around Quinault Lake and through the rainforest
  7. Duration: Half-day to full-day trip

  8. Road Conditions: Mostly paved roads

  9. Deer Park Road

  10. Description: Narrow, steep 18-mile road to Deer Park
  11. Duration: 1-2 hours each way
  12. Road Conditions: Narrow, steep, with gravel sections; closed in winter

What Are the Must-See Stops for Drivers in Olympic National Park?

As you drive through Olympic National Park, make sure to include these essential stops:

  1. Olympic National Park Visitor Center
  2. Location: Outskirts of Port Angeles
  3. Attractions: Main visitor center, 1887 log cabin

  4. Entry: Free to visit center; park fees apply

  5. Lake Crescent Lodge

  6. Location: Midway along Lake Crescent
  7. Attractions: Lodge, restaurant, general store, short trails

  8. Entry: No fee, but lodging and dining costs apply

  9. Ruby Beach and Kalaloch

  10. Location: Along Highway 101, south of Forks
  11. Attractions: Scenic beaches, viewpoints, ranger station, lodge

  12. Entry: Park entrance fees apply

  13. Big Cedar Tree

  14. Location: Along Highway 101, south of Kalaloch
  15. Attractions: Historic cedar tree (recently split)

  16. Entry: No fee, but park entrance fees apply

  17. Storm King Ranger Station

  18. Location: Midway along Lake Crescent
  19. Attractions: Ranger station, short trails, lake views
  20. Entry: No fee, but park entrance fees apply

What Should Drivers Know Before Exploring Olympic National Park?

Before embarking on your driving adventure in Olympic National Park, keep these tips in mind:

  • Check road conditions and closures before your trip
  • Carry tire chains during winter months, especially for Hurricane Ridge Road
  • Fill up your gas tank before entering the park, as fuel stations are limited
  • Be prepared for slow driving speeds on winding roads
  • Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance
  • Pack essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit
  • Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park’s beauty

By exploring these scenic drives, viewpoints, and must-see stops, you’ll experience the diverse beauty of Olympic National Park from the comfort of your vehicle. Remember to take your time, enjoy the views, and respect the natural environment as you discover this magnificent park.

References:
1. https://www.seattletimes.com/life/travel/3-top-drives-in-olympic-national-park/
2. https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/washington/olympic-national-park/scenic-driving
3. https://www.myolympicpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/best-views/
4. https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/driving-tours.htm
5. https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/scenic-drives.htm

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