Olympic National Park, a diverse wilderness of rugged coastlines, lush rainforests, and towering mountains, attracts visitors year-round. Many wonder about free entry opportunities, especially during holidays like Memorial Day. While the park doesn’t offer free admission specifically on Memorial Day, there are other free days throughout the year and plenty of activities to enjoy during the holiday weekend. This article will explore the options for visiting Olympic National Park around Memorial Day, including camping, hiking, and other recreational activities.
Is Olympic National Park Free on Memorial Day?
Unfortunately, Olympic National Park does not offer free entry on Memorial Day. However, there are several other days throughout the year when you can visit the park without paying an entrance fee. These free days for 2024 include:
- January 15: Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
- April 20: First day of National Park Week
- June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
- August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
- September 28: National Public Lands Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
While Memorial Day isn’t on this list, planning your visit around one of these free days can help you save on entrance fees.
What Are the Entrance Fees for Olympic National Park?
If you’re planning to visit Olympic National Park on Memorial Day or any other non-free day, here are the current entrance fees:
| Pass Type | Cost | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Private Vehicle | $30 | 7 consecutive days |
| Motorcycle | $25 | 7 consecutive days |
| Individual (foot or bicycle) | $15 | 7 consecutive days |
| Olympic National Park Annual Pass | $55 | 1 year from month of purchase |
It’s worth noting that if you plan to visit multiple national parks throughout the year, the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, which costs $80, might be a more economical option.
What Camping Options Are Available During Memorial Day Weekend?
While camping isn’t free in Olympic National Park, it’s a popular activity during Memorial Day weekend. Here are some options:
- Kalaloch Campground
- Open year-round
- Amenities: Restrooms, potable water, picnic tables
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Cost: $22 per night for a standard campsite
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Sol Duc Campground
- Typically open from late March to mid-October
- Amenities: Restrooms, potable water, access to Sol Duc Hot Springs
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Cost: $21 per night for a standard campsite
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Ozette Campground
- Open year-round
- More primitive with vault toilets and no potable water
- Cost: $15 per night for a standard campsite
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular campgrounds during peak seasons like Memorial Day weekend. You can make reservations through the recreation.gov website.
What Trails Are Open on Memorial Day?
Olympic National Park offers numerous hiking trails, but availability and conditions can vary. Here are some popular options that are often accessible around Memorial Day:
- Hurricane Hill Trail
- Location: Hurricane Ridge Area
- Length: 3.2-mile round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated time: 2-3 hours
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Note: May have snow and ice in spring
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Hall of Mosses Trail
- Location: Hoh Rainforest Area
- Length: 0.8-mile loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated time: 1 hour
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Note: Can be muddy
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Ruby Beach Trail
- Location: Coastal Area
- Length: Short
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated time: 30 minutes
- Note: May have rough terrain near the beach
Always check current trail conditions before setting out, as weather and maintenance can affect accessibility.
What Activities Are Available During Memorial Day Weekend?
While there aren’t specific events listed for Memorial Day weekend, Olympic National Park offers various activities year-round:
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Ranger-Led Programs: These may include nature walks and educational talks. Check the park’s website or visitor center for schedules and any associated costs.
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Guided Tours: Tours of areas like the Hoh Rainforest or Hurricane Ridge may be available. Inquire at the visitor center for availability and schedules.
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Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to diverse wildlife, including Roosevelt elk, black bears, and various bird species.
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Photography: With its diverse landscapes, Olympic National Park offers countless opportunities for photography enthusiasts.
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Stargazing: If weather permits, the park’s dark skies provide excellent conditions for stargazing.
How Can I Save Money on My Visit to Olympic National Park?
While Olympic National Park isn’t free on Memorial Day, there are ways to make your visit more budget-friendly:
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Plan for Free Days: If possible, schedule your visit during one of the park’s free entry days.
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Consider an Annual Pass: If you plan to visit multiple national parks, the America the Beautiful Annual Pass can offer significant savings.
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Bring Your Own Food: Pack picnics and snacks to save on food costs within the park.
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Use Free Amenities: Take advantage of free park amenities like visitor centers, scenic drives, and some hiking trails.
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Carpool: Since entrance fees are per vehicle, carpooling can help split the cost among more people.
Remember, while entrance to the park isn’t free on Memorial Day, the memories and experiences you’ll gain from visiting this stunning natural wonder are priceless. Whether you’re hiking through lush rainforests, exploring rugged coastlines, or marveling at snow-capped mountains, Olympic National Park offers a wealth of experiences that make it worth the visit, regardless of the entrance fee.