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Olympic National Park
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Olympic National Park

warningDanger6 warnings calendar_monthMay–Jun, Sep–Octbest time schedule3 daysplan for directions_car4 h 11from Seattle child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$15entry
Olympic National ParkYour own route Plan a trip here →
Danger Bat Tests Positive for Rabies, Visitors Urged to Report Potential Contact

A rabid bat was found at Olympic National Park near Staircase Bridge on August 9th. At approximately 2 p.m., the bat swooped down onto an unidentified woman and was temporarily caught in her hair. This individual is at risk for rabies and should seek healthcare immediately, as we Details open_in_new

Danger Crews Responding to Mount Tom Creek Fire

Fire managers are responding to a lightning fire in a remote area of Olympic National Park. The Mount Tom Creek Fire has burned 69 acres 5 miles west-northwest of Mount Olympus. Firefighters are using indirect confinement tactics as part of a full-suppression strategy. There are Details open_in_new

Park Closure Mora Road Closed for Essential Repairs

Mora Road is closed to all traffic, including bicycles and pedestrians, at the campground. Rialto Beach is not accessible via Mora Road during this construction period. Mora Campground is open. This construction work will repair damage from a severe winter flood event, fortify th

Park Closure Highway 101 Closed at Hoh River Bridge

The Highway 101 closure cuts off the only direct route between some of the most popular areas of the park. There are no detours available. Taking alternate routes around the east side of the Olympic Peninsula will add at least four hours to travel times. Details open_in_new

Caution Staircase Developed Area is Open, Use Caution in Burned Areas

The Staircase developed area is open. The surrounding wilderness areas will remain closed as repair and recovery efforts continue. Use extreme caution when entering burned areas. Burned landscapes may contain falling trees and branches, loose boulders, unstable ground, stump hole Details open_in_new

Information South Shore Quinault Road Washed Out Beyond Park Boundary

South Shore Road – which is maintained by Jefferson County – is closed due to a major wash-out. For more information, visit the Jefferson County website. Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Olympic National Park in Washington State offers a mix of rugged mountains and serene coastlines. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine peaks, all within a short drive.

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The park is divided into two main sections: the mountainous interior and the coastal area. Each section has its own unique charm, making it a destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

In pictures

Orange sea stars on a rocky coast.
Orange sea stars on a rocky coast.

Sightseeing

Hurricane Ridge: panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains
Hoh Rain Forest: a lush, temperate rainforest with diverse flora
Ruby Beach: known for its dramatic rock formations and tide pools
Quinault Valley: a scenic area with trails and stunning landscapes
Sol Duc Hot Springs: natural hot springs surrounded by forest
Lake Crescent: a deep blue glacial lake ideal for kayaking
Kalaloch Beach: a long stretch of sandy beach with tide pools
Olympic Coast: rugged coastline with scenic views and wildlife

"Nature's diverse playground awaits you"Olympic National Park

Things to do

Hike the trails: various levels of difficulty available
Camp under the stars: multiple campgrounds throughout the park
Explore tide pools: especially at Ruby Beach and Kalaloch
Wildlife watching: look for elk, deer, and various bird species
Fish in the lakes: catch and release fishing is popular at Lake Crescent
Local food and drinks - Olympic National Park

Local food and drinks

Kalaloch Lodge Dining Room: offers Pacific Northwest cuisine
Lake Crescent Lodge: known for its hearty breakfasts
Forks: several diners and cafes serving local fare
Port Angeles: a variety of restaurants with seafood options
Local traditions - Olympic National Park

Local traditions

Ranger-led programs: educational activities throughout the summer
Annual Olympic Music Festival: classical music performances in the park
Wildflower season: visitors flock to see blooming meadows in late spring

Do's and don'ts

Bring a camera: the scenery is worth capturing
Check trail conditions: some paths may be closed
Respect wildlife: observe from a distance
Pack out what you pack in: leave no trace
Don't feed the animals: it harms their natural behavior
Don't swim in cold waters: temperatures can be dangerous
Don't ignore park rules: they are in place for safety
Don't rely on GPS: maps are more reliable in remote areas

Things to do

Walk the Moments in Time Trail
15-30 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Take a peaceful stroll at Barnes Point on Lake Crescent on the Moments in Time Trail.
Hurricane Ridge Shuttle
1-2 Hours · Summer

Skip the stress and help the environment by taking a Clallam Transit bus to Hurricane Ridge! This summer seaso...
Watch for Salmon at Salmon Cascades
15-45 Minutes · Spring/Summer

In the late summer and early fall, salmon can be seen leaping from Salmon Cascades on the Sol Duc River! Get a...
Observe Animals at Olympic National Park

In the park, we humans are privileged to be visitors to wild animals' home. We can treat their home with respe...
Take a Short Hike Near the Visitor Center
15-30 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Near the Olympic National Park Visitor Center, two short loop hikes take visitors through peaceful, green lowl...
See Madison Falls
5-15 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Madison Falls is a stunning 60-foot waterfall near the Elwha River. It's also one of the most accessible desti...
Backpack in Olympic National Park
Winter/Spring

While this app is a great tool for "front country" visits (places you can get to with a car, bike, or short hi...
Go to the Beach
Winter/Spring

A trip to the Olympic Coast is sure to be memorable! Olympic National Park contains several beach areas along...
Take a Pet-Friendly Hike
Winter/Spring

Pets: they’re our faithful friends and loyal companions. But at Olympic National Park, they aren’t allowed eve...
Play in the Snow in the Olympic Mountains
Winter

Hurricane Ridge provides opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding, tubin...
Tidepooling on the Olympic Coast
30-180 Minutes · Summer

There are special places that allow you to see sea creatures up close without leaving the beach! Tidepools are...

Practical

At a glance

Established
1938
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Price
Private Vehicle $30, Per Person $15, Motorcycle $25
Accessibility
Some areas are wheelchair accessible, but many trails are not.
Address
Olympic National Park Visitor Center, Port Angeles, WA 98362
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
3605653130
Price
~$15
Price level
Budget
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Cell service is limited in many areas of the park
Weather can change rapidly; dress in layers
Some roads may be closed in winter due to snow
Wildlife encounters can be unpredictable; keep a safe distance
history_eduHistoryexpand_more

Before European settlers arrived, Native American tribes thrived in the region, relying on fishing and hunting. Archaeological findings suggest extensive use of the land, particularly the subalpine meadows.

The park was established in 1938, preserving its unique ecosystems and cultural heritage. It has since become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its biodiversity and natural beauty.

Photo: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons