Olympic National Park offers diverse landscapes from rugged coastlines to lush rainforests and alpine peaks. Visitors can explore pristine beaches, hike through moss-draped forests, and witness stunning mountain vistas. This guide highlights the best locations to visit, including Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest, and Sol Duc Falls, providing essential information for planning an unforgettable trip to this natural wonderland.
Where are the must-visit locations in Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park boasts numerous breathtaking destinations. Here are the top five locations you shouldn’t miss:
- Hurricane Ridge
- Panoramic mountain views
- Hiking trails: Hurricane Hill Trail (3.5 miles RT) and High Ridge Trail
- Wildlife spotting: Olympic Marmots
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Trailhead: Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center
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Hoh Rainforest
- Lush, moss-covered old-growth forest
- Trails: Hall of Mosses (0.8 miles) and Spruce Nature Trail (1.2 miles)
- Diverse wildlife: deer, northern spotted owl, black bear
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Trailhead: Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center
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Lake Crescent
- Glacially carved lake with crystal-clear waters
- Hiking options: Marymere Falls Trail (1.7 miles RT) and Mount Storm King Trail (4 miles RT)
- Activities: canoeing, kayaking
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Location: Northern part of the park
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Sol Duc Falls
- Triple waterfall in temperate rainforest
- Trails: Sol Duc Falls Trail (1.6 miles RT) and Lovers Lane Loop (6 miles RT)
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Trailhead: End of Sol Duc Road
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Rialto Beach
- Rugged coastline with sea stacks and tide pools
- Hike: Hole in the Wall Trail (4 miles RT)
- Features: Excellent sunset views, marine wildlife
What are the best scenic viewpoints in Olympic National Park?
For breathtaking vistas, head to these top scenic viewpoints:
- Hurricane Ridge
- Coordinates: 48.0643° N, 123.5383° W
- Accessible by car (July-October)
- Large parking lot and visitor center
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Amenities: restrooms, picnic areas, Day Lodge
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Mount Storm King
- Coordinates: 48.0667° N, 123.7833° W
- 4-mile challenging hike from Lake Crescent
- Parking at Lake Crescent trailhead
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No amenities at summit
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Rialto Beach
- Coordinates: 48.1467° N, 124.6333° W
- Car-accessible with ample parking
- Amenities: restrooms, picnic areas
- Nearby: Kalaloch Lodge
Where are the best camping locations in Olympic National Park?
For an immersive experience, consider these top camping spots:
- Kalaloch Campground
- 145 sites
- Reservations recommended
- Amenities: water, restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits
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Near Kalaloch Beach, Ruby Beach, Hoh Rainforest
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Sol Duc Campground
- 82 sites
- Reservations recommended
- Amenities: water, restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits
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Close to Sol Duc Falls and hot springs
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Ozette Campground
- 15 sites
- Reservations recommended
- Amenities: water, restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits
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Near Ozette Beach and Lake Ozette
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Deer Park Campground
- 14 sites (first-come, first-served)
- Amenities: restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits (no water)
- Close to Deer Park area trails
What are the most impressive waterfalls in Olympic National Park?
Discover these stunning waterfalls during your visit:
- Sol Duc Falls
- Height: ~50 feet (triple falls)
- Easy 1.6-mile RT hike
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Best viewed in spring/early summer
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Marymere Falls
- Height: ~90 feet
- Easy 1.7-mile RT hike from Lake Crescent
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Best viewed in spring/early summer
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Madison Falls
- Height: ~50 feet
- Easy 0.2-mile RT hike
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Accessible year-round
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Quinault Falls
- Height: ~30 feet
- Short walk from Quinault Rainforest Nature Trail
- Best viewed in spring/early summer
By exploring these diverse locations, you’ll experience the best that Olympic National Park has to offer. From towering mountains to misty rainforests and rugged coastlines, each destination showcases the park’s unique beauty and ecological diversity.
References:
1. https://www.kuhl.com/borninthemountains/olympic-national-park-guide
2. https://madelinemarquardt.com/how-to-visit-olympic-national-park-in-a-weekend/
3. https://www.earthtrekkers.com/best-things-to-do-in-olympic-national-park/