Olympic National Park, located in Washington State, offers a diverse landscape of mountains, rainforests, and beaches. A two-day trip to this park allows visitors to experience its varied ecosystems and natural wonders. From hiking in the Hurricane Ridge to exploring the Hoh Rain Forest and relaxing on pristine beaches, this guide provides a comprehensive itinerary for making the most of a short visit to Olympic National Park.
What are the Must-See Attractions for a Two-Day Trip to Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park boasts numerous attractions that can be explored in just two days. Here’s a list of must-see spots:
- Hurricane Ridge
- Sol Duc Valley
- Lake Crescent
- Hoh Rain Forest
- Shi Shi Beach or Rialto Beach
How Should You Plan Your Two-Day Itinerary?
Day 1: Mountains and Lakes
Morning: Hurricane Ridge
- Drive to Hurricane Ridge (20 miles from Port Angeles)
- Hike the Hurricane Hill Trail:
- Distance: 3 miles roundtrip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Views: Olympic Mountains, mountain goats, Port Angeles, Strait of Juan de Fuca
Afternoon: Sol Duc Valley
- Visit Sol Duc Hot Springs
- Hike to Sol Duc Falls:
- Distance: 1.6 miles roundtrip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlight: Triple waterfall
Evening: Lake Crescent
- Stay at Lake Crescent Lodge
- Enjoy dinner at the lodge’s restaurant
Day 2: Rainforests and Beaches
Morning: Hoh Rain Forest
- Explore the temperate rainforest
- Hike the Hall of Mosses Trail:
- Distance: 0.8 miles roundtrip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: Moss-covered trees, diverse plant life
Afternoon: Coastal Exploration
- Visit Shi Shi Beach or Rialto Beach (tide-dependent)
- Explore tide pools and sea stacks
Evening: Kalaloch Lodge
- Watch the sunset from the lodge
- Gather around the community fire pit
What are the Best Hiking Trails for a Two-Day Olympic National Park Trip?
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hurricane Hill | 3 miles | Easy | Mountain views, wildlife |
| Sol Duc Falls | 1.6 miles | Easy | Triple waterfall |
| Hall of Mosses | 0.8 miles | Easy | Moss-covered trees |
| Spruce Nature Trail | 1.2 miles | Easy | Hoh River views |
| 2nd Beach Trail | 0.7 miles | Easy | Tide pools, sea stacks |
Where Should You Stay During Your Two-Day Visit?
Accommodation options in Olympic National Park include:
- Lake Crescent Lodge
- Type: Lodge rooms, cabins
- Location: On Lake Crescent
-
Cost: $200-$300 per night
-
Kalaloch Lodge
- Type: Lodge rooms, cabins
- Location: Coastal area
-
Cost: $200-$300 per night
-
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
- Type: Lodge rooms, cabins
- Location: Sol Duc Valley
-
Cost: $150-$250 per night
-
Campgrounds
- Options: Ozette, Kalaloch, Sol Duc
- Cost: $20-$30 per night
What Logistical Aspects Should You Consider for Your Trip?
Transportation
- Driving is the most convenient option
- Limited public transportation; car rental recommended
Parking
- Available at major attractions like Hurricane Ridge and Hoh Rain Forest
Accessibility
- Some trails and facilities are wheelchair accessible
- Be prepared for motion sickness on winding roads
Seasonal Considerations
- Weather can be unpredictable; pack layers
- Check tide charts for beach visits
How Can You Make the Most of Your Two-Day Olympic National Park Trip?
- Start early to maximize daylight hours
- Pack appropriate gear for various terrains and weather conditions
- Check trail conditions and visitor center hours before your trip
- Respect wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles
- Bring a camera to capture the diverse landscapes
By following this guide, you can experience the best of Olympic National Park in just two days, from mountain vistas to lush rainforests and rugged coastlines.
References:
1. 2 Days in the Park – Olympic National Park Itinerary
2. How to Spend 2 Epic Days in Olympic National Park
3. The Perfect 2-3 Day Olympic National Park Itinerary