Embark on an unforgettable journey through two of Washington’s most iconic national parks with this Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier itinerary. This 3-day adventure takes you from the diverse landscapes of Olympic National Park to the majestic peaks of Mount Rainier. Experience lush rainforests, rugged coastlines, and alpine meadows as you explore these natural wonders. This carefully crafted itinerary ensures you make the most of your time, covering key attractions and hidden gems in both parks.
What Are the Highlights of Day 1 in Olympic National Park?
Day 1 of your Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier itinerary focuses on the stunning Hurricane Ridge and Sol Duc Valley areas. Here’s what you can expect:
Morning: Hurricane Ridge
- Start your day early in Port Angeles or Sequim
- Drive to the Olympic National Park Visitor Center
- Pick up a park map and get current information on roads and trails
- Head to Hurricane Ridge for breathtaking panoramic views
- Choose between two hiking options:
- Heart O’ The Hills Trail (2.3 miles, easy)
- Switchback Trail (1.2 miles, moderate to hard)
- Visit the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center
Afternoon: Sol Duc Valley
- Drive to Sol Duc Valley
- Hike the Sol Duc Falls Trail:
- Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation gain: 200 feet
- Optional: Marymere Falls Trail
- Distance: 1.7 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation gain: 200 feet
Evening
- Return to Port Angeles for dinner and overnight stay
- Alternative: Stay at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
What Does Day 2 of the Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier Itinerary Offer?
Day 2 takes you to the enchanting Hoh Rainforest and the picturesque Ruby Beach. Here’s your itinerary:
Morning: Hoh Rainforest
- Drive to the Hoh Rainforest (about 2 hours from Port Angeles)
- Visit the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center
- Choose between two short, easy hikes:
- Hall of Mosses Trail (0.8 miles round trip)
- Spruce Nature Trail (1.2 miles round trip)
- Look for wildlife such as Roosevelt elk and black bears
Afternoon: Ruby Beach
- Drive to Ruby Beach (approximately 45 minutes from Hoh Rainforest)
- Explore the coastline:
- Admire sea stacks and rock formations
- Search for colorful tidepools
- Watch for marine wildlife like seals and sea birds
- Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach (weather permitting)
Evening
- Return to your accommodation in the Port Angeles area
- Relax and prepare for the journey to Mount Rainier the next day
How Should You Spend Day 3 at Mount Rainier National Park?
The final day of your Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier itinerary is dedicated to exploring the Paradise area of Mount Rainier. Here’s what to do:
Morning: Drive to Mount Rainier
- Early start: Leave Port Angeles for Mount Rainier National Park (approximately 4 hours)
- Enter through the Nisqually Entrance
- Stop at Christine Falls for a quick photo opportunity
- Continue to Paradise, making a stop at Ricksecker Point for scenic views
Afternoon: Paradise Area Exploration
- Arrive at Paradise Visitor Center
- Choose your hiking adventure:
- Skyline Loop Trail
- Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to hard
- Highlights: Panoramic views, wildflower meadows
- Myrtle Falls Trail
- Distance: 1 mile round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Picturesque waterfall with Mount Rainier backdrop
- Visit Reflection Lake for iconic views of Mount Rainier
Late Afternoon (If Time Allows)
- Drive to the Ohanapecosh area
- Hike the Silver Falls Trail:
- Distance: 3 miles loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Old-growth forest, waterfall views
What Essential Amenities and Facilities Are Available in Both Parks?
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier itinerary, it’s crucial to know about the available amenities and facilities:
Olympic National Park
| Facility | Location | Hours | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center | Hurricane Ridge | 10 AM – 5 PM (peak season) | Restrooms, parking, information desk |
| Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort | Sol Duc Valley | Varies by season | Parking, restrooms, hot springs, lodging |
| Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center | Hoh Rainforest | 9 AM – 5 PM (peak season) | Restrooms, parking, information desk |
Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass (Free with America the Beautiful annual pass)
Mount Rainier National Park
| Facility | Location | Hours | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paradise Visitor Center | Paradise | 10 AM – 5 PM (peak season) | Restrooms, parking, information desk |
| Ohanapecosh Visitor Center | Ohanapecosh | 9 AM – 5 PM (peak season) | Restrooms, parking, information desk |
Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass (Free with America the Beautiful annual pass)
Note: Reservations are required for entry to Paradise between May and September from 7 AM to 3 PM ($2 per vehicle)
How Can You Plan a Day Trip from Seattle to Mount Rainier?
For those based in Seattle, a day trip to Mount Rainier is entirely feasible. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan:
Travel Times and Recommended Stops
- Drive Time: Approximately 2 hours from Seattle to the Nisqually Entrance
- Recommended Stops:
- Ashford: Last chance for supplies and snacks before entering the park
- Longmire: Historical area at the base of Mount Rainier, offering short hikes if time allows
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
- Mountain Goats: Often spotted near Paradise, especially around the Skyline Loop Trail
- Black Bears: Occasionally seen in the Ohanapecosh area
- Elk: While not common in Mount Rainier, they can be found in Olympic National Park’s Hoh Rainforest
Accessibility Considerations
- Paradise Area Trails: Many trails are accessible but can be steep and challenging
- Scenic Viewpoints: Ricksecker Point and Reflection Lake are easily accessible by car with parking areas
What Are the Challenges and Conditions of Selected Hiking Trails?
Understanding trail conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier itinerary. Here’s a breakdown of the main trails mentioned:
Olympic National Park Trails
- Hurricane Ridge Trails:
- Switchback Trail: 1.2 miles, 700 feet elevation gain, moderate to hard
- Heart O’ The Hills Trail: 2.3 miles, minimal elevation gain, easy
- Sol Duc Falls Trail: 1.6 miles, 200 feet elevation gain, easy
- Marymere Falls Trail: 1.7 miles, 200 feet elevation gain, easy (includes man-made staircase and bridges)
Mount Rainier National Park Trails
- Skyline Loop Trail: 5.4 miles, moderate to hard, significant elevation gain
- Myrtle Falls Trail: 1 mile, easy, minimal elevation gain
- Silver Falls Trail: 3 miles, easy, loop trail
Remember to always check current trail conditions at visitor centers before setting out, as weather and other factors can affect trail accessibility and safety.
This Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to exploring these two magnificent parks in just three days. From the diverse ecosystems of Olympic to the towering presence of Mount Rainier, you’ll experience the best of Washington’s natural beauty. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect wildlife to help preserve these incredible landscapes for future generations.
References:
1. https://www.dirtyshoesandepicviews.com/blog/three-day-mount-rainier-itinerary
2. https://uprootedtraveler.com/3-day-olympic-national-park-itinerary/
3. https://www.bigbravenomad.com/blog/the-perfect-three-day-itinerary-for-olympic-national-park