The Olympic National Park backcountry planner is an indispensable tool for adventurers seeking to explore the park’s diverse wilderness. This comprehensive guide covers everything from selecting camping sites and navigating trails to obtaining permits and ensuring safety. Whether you’re planning a coastal trek, a mountain expedition, or a rainforest adventure, this planner provides the necessary information for a successful backcountry experience in one of America’s most stunning national parks.
What Are the Best Backcountry Camping Sites in Olympic National Park?

Olympic National Park offers a variety of backcountry camping options, each with its unique characteristics:
Coastal Camping
- Shi Shi Beach
- Location: North end of the park
- Access: 2-4.5 mile hike
- Features: Sea stacks, protected inlet, tide pools
- Water source: Petroleum or Willoughby creeks
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Facilities: Three pit toilets
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Rialto Beach
- Access: 1-mile hike from parking lot
- Features: Secluded campsites, tide pools
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Water source: Ellen Creek
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Third Beach to Oil City
- Length: 17-mile multi-day trek
- Terrain: Rainforests, rope ladders, tidal areas
Mountain and Lake Camping
- Seven Lakes Basin
- Access: 19-mile High Divide Loop trail
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Best time: Late July to September (snow-free)
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Grand Lake and Badger Valley
- Trail: 8-mile loop from Obstruction Point
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Terrain: Alpine, challenging day hike
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Moose Lake and Gladys Lake
- Extension of Grand Lake loop
- Additional mileage for more scenic views
Rainforest Camping
- Hoh Rainforest
- Trail length: Over 17 miles to Mt. Olympus shoulder
- Options: Custom-distance out-and-back hikes
How Do Elevation Levels and Water Sources Affect Backcountry Planning?

Understanding elevation and water availability is crucial for backcountry planning:
Camping Area | Elevation | Water Sources |
---|---|---|
Shi Shi Beach | Sea level | Petroleum or Willoughby creeks |
Rialto Beach | Sea level | Ellen Creek |
Seven Lakes Basin | High | Multiple lakes and streams |
Grand Lake and Badger Valley | High | Grand Lake, surrounding streams |
Hoh Rainforest | Low to moderate | Abundant rivers and streams |
What Are the Most Popular Hiking Trails for Backcountry Access?
- High Divide Loop
- Length: 19 miles
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Season: Late July to September
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Highlights: Seven Lakes Basin, mountain peaks, alpine meadows
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Ozette Triangle (Cape Alava Loop)
- Length: 9 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Season: Year-round (best in dry months)
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Highlights: Forested boardwalks, beaches, Cape Alava
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Sol Duc Valley Trail
- Length: 1.6 miles round-trip
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Season: Year-round (best in spring/summer)
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Highlight: 48-foot waterfall
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Hoh River Trail
- Length: Up to 17 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Season: Year-round (best in spring/summer)
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Highlights: Old-growth rainforest, waterfalls, mountain views
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Third Beach to Oil City
- Length: 17 miles
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Season: Year-round (tide-dependent)
- Highlights: Rainforests, rope ladders, coastal scenery
What Are the Requirements for Obtaining Wilderness Permits?
Application Process
- Permits required year-round for overnight backpacking
- Reservations through Recreation.gov
- Summer permits (May 15 – October 15) released on April 15 at 7 a.m. PST
Fees
- $8 per person, per night
- Additional $6 permit fee
- Valid park pass required for trip duration
Reservation Timeline
- Summer permits released April 15
- Early reservation recommended, especially for popular areas
Specific Regulations
- Camping only in designated sites or areas on permit
- Follow park regulations (e.g., camping above high tide line, using existing sites)
What Safety Guidelines Should Backcountry Explorers Follow?
- Wildlife Precautions
- Be aware of black bears, especially in Quinault River valley
- Proper food and trash storage
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Follow bear safety guidelines
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Weather Considerations
- Check local forecasts and tide predictions
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Prepare for changing conditions in coastal and mountain areas
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Navigation Tips
- Use Park Service’s Wilderness Trip Planner map and tools
- Carry compass, map, and GPS device
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Know how to use navigation tools
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Emergency Protocols
- Carry personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite phone in remote areas
- Know emergency contact numbers and procedures
- Inform someone of your itinerary before departure
By following this Olympic National Park backcountry planner, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable wilderness adventure. Remember to respect the environment, follow park regulations, and prioritize safety throughout your journey.
References:
1. Olympic National Park Trip Planner | GuideAlong
2. The Ultimate Guide to Olympic National Park – Outside Online
3. Wilderness Trip Planner – National Park Service