Olympic National Park
National Park · Washington

Olympic National Park

Photo: Adbar · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Olympic covers nearly a million acres on Washington's Olympic Peninsula, with three very different worlds: alpine Hurricane Ridge, the Hoh and Quinault rainforests, and rugged beaches like Rialto and Ruby. It has no road through the middle, so plan a loop on Highway 101 and give yourself time. Check tide tables before walking the beaches, as some headlands can only be passed at low tide.

Good to know

Tickets
Charges an entry fee per vehicle, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates.
Time needed
At least 2 to 3 days to see the mountains, rainforest and coast.
Best time
July to September for the driest weather and open mountain roads.
Getting there
Port Angeles is about 30 minutes from Hurricane Ridge. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is about 2.5 to 3 hours by car or car ferry.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
Port Angeles, WashingtonSeattle, Washington
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Olympic National Park questions

Do I need a reservation for Olympic National Park?

No timed entry is needed. Campgrounds and lodges like Lake Crescent and Kalaloch fill fast in summer, so book ahead.

What are the best things to see in Olympic?

Hurricane Ridge, the Hall of Mosses in the Hoh Rain Forest, Lake Crescent and Rialto or Ruby Beach.

Is Hurricane Ridge open?

The road is open, with extra winter limits and some work-related closures. Check nps.gov before you go.

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