A Land of Three Worlds

An in-depth guide to the wild Pacific coast, lush temperate rainforests, and glacier-capped mountains of Olympic National Park.

Plan Your Visit

Olympic is not a park you drive through; it's a park you drive around. A successful trip requires a road trip mentality.

Strategy: The Olympic Peninsula Loop

Critical Strategy

There are no roads that cross the park's mountainous interior. You must use Highway 101, which loops around the peninsula. The most effective plan is a multi-day road trip, staying in different gateway towns (like Port Angeles for the north, Forks for the west) to explore each region without hours of backtracking.

Choosing Your Season: Embrace the Sun

Three Parks in One

Olympic's magic lies in its staggering diversity. Each region offers a completely different world to explore.

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Temperate Rainforests

Receiving 12-14 feet of rain annually, the Hoh and Quinault rainforests are overwhelmingly green worlds. Giant Sitka spruce and Western hemlock are draped in moss, creating a primeval atmosphere. The Hall of Mosses Trail is the iconic walk here.

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Glacier-Capped Mountains

Hurricane Ridge is the most accessible high-country area, offering panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains from its mile-high vantage point. In summer, the subalpine meadows are famous for their vibrant wildflower displays.

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Rugged Pacific Coast

The park protects 73 miles of wild coastline. Explore the dramatic sea stacks of Rialto Beach, the sandy shores of Ruby Beach, and the vibrant intertidal life in tide pools. Checking a tide chart is essential for exploring.

Signature Hikes

Hiking in Olympic is a journey through its different worlds. These trails are classics from each ecosystem.

Trail Comparison: A Hike for Each World

Olympic's Wild Inhabitants

From the endemic Roosevelt Elk to the whales offshore, Olympic is teeming with life.

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Roosevelt Elk

The largest subspecies of elk in North America, named for President Theodore Roosevelt. Often seen in the Hoh and Quinault rainforests.

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Black Bear

Common throughout the park, from the mountains to the coast. Store food properly. Unlike other mountain parks, Olympic has no grizzly bears.

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Marine Mammals

The coast is a prime spot to see sea lions, harbor seals, and sea otters. Gray whales can be spotted during their spring migration.

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Bald Eagle

These majestic birds are frequently seen along the coast and major rivers, often perched atop large trees or sea stacks.

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