Olympic National Park, United States
The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities including hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and fishing. With over 600 miles of trails, adventurers can discover hidden gems and breathtaking vistas. The park's rich biodiversity encompasses various species of animals and plants, providing a captivating experience for nature lovers.
Olympic National Park is also steeped in cultural history, with its connection to indigenous communities evident in its heritage sites. Whether it's exploring the wild terrain or immersing oneself in its cultural tapestry, Olympic National Park offers an unforgettable escape into nature.
What to do in Olympic National Park, United States
Hiking the Hoh Rainforest Trail
Immerse yourself in the enchanting Hoh Rainforest, known for its lush, moss-draped trees and diverse range of plant and animal species. The Hoh Rainforest Trail offers an otherworldly experience as you wander through old-growth temperate rainforest and marvel at the towering trees and gentle streams. The Hall of Mosses trail, a shorter loop within the Hoh Rainforest, allows for an even closer look at the magical scenery, making it a must-see for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Exploring Hurricane Ridge
Perched atop the Olympic Mountains, Hurricane Ridge presents a gateway to breathtaking panoramic views, alpine meadows, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can engage in activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, making it an all-season attraction. The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center offers interpretive exhibits and guided walks, providing insight into the area’s natural history and ecological significance. The astounding vistas and opportunities for wildlife sightings offer an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
Marveling at the Sol Duc Falls
A visit to Olympic National Park is incomplete without witnessing the mesmerizing beauty of the Sol Duc Falls. A short and pleasant hike leads to this iconic waterfall, where visitors can admire the powerful cascades framed by verdant surroundings. The peaceful ambiance creates a perfect setting for photography or simply soaking in the tranquility of nature. Additionally, the nearby Sol Duc Hot Springs offer a well-deserved relaxation opportunity after the awe-inspiring encounter with the falls.
Beachcombing at Ruby Beach
Discover the raw, untamed beauty of the Pacific Northwest coastline at Ruby Beach. This picturesque shore, adorned with sea stacks and driftwood, invites visitors to stroll along the sandy expanse, explore tide pools, and witness stunning sunsets. The rugged charm of the beach, with its dramatic seascapes and evocative rock formations, captures the essence of the region’s coastal allure, making it a favorite spot for photography and contemplative walks.
Visiting Lake Crescent
The crystal-clear waters of Lake Crescent allure visitors to engage in an array of activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Surrounded by lush forests and majestic peaks, the lake offers a serene retreat for those seeking relaxation or outdoor adventure. Scenic overlooks and designated picnic areas provide ideal vantage points to appreciate the pristine beauty of this glacially carved lake, enticing travelers to revel in the tranquility and splendor of Olympic National Park’s natural wonders.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning: Start your day at Hurricane Ridge, one of the most picturesque spots in the park. Take in breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and explore the numerous hiking trails, such as the Hurricane Hill Trail, which offers stunning panoramic views.
Afternoon: Head to Lake Crescent and enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the pristine waters. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to experience the serenity of this glacially carved lake. Consider a hike along the Marymere Falls Trail to see the enchanting waterfall.
Evening: Drive to the Hoh Rainforest and explore this unique, lush ecosystem with its moss-draped trees and diverse plant life. Take a walk along the Hall of Mosses Trail or the Spruce Nature Trail to immerse yourself in the magical ambiance of the forest.
Day 2:
Morning: Embark on an early coastal adventure at Ruby Beach. Explore the rugged coastline, iconic sea stacks, and tide pools. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach and keep an eye out for marine wildlife and colorful seastars.
Afternoon: Drive to Sol Duc Valley and visit the Sol Duc Hot Springs to relax and rejuvenate in the mineral-rich waters. Consider a hike to Sol Duc Falls to witness the mesmerizing cascades and lush surroundings.
Evening: Conclude your trip with a visit to the charming town of Port Angeles, located near the park. Explore the local shops, galleries, and grab a bite to eat at one of the cozy eateries. If time allows, catch the sunset at one of the scenic viewpoints in the area before bidding farewell to Olympic National Park.
Backpacking
Embark on multi-day treks through the wilderness, camping at designated backcountry sites along the way.
5-Day Olympic Backpacking - Hoh Rainforest and the Blue Glacier
This hike is an Olympic National Park favorite! Explore a beautiful old-growth temperate rainforest, view pristine high alpine lakes and meadows, and climb to the breathtaking overlook of the Blue Glacier. On this hike you will have the opportunity to hike through different ecosystems within the park and see the variety of plants and wildlife that inhabit them. You may see deer, elk, and bears. Your hiking efforts will be awarded with spectacular views of Mt. Olympus and the Blue Glacier.
Travel with a top-rated guide service (over 1200 5-star reviews online & #1 operator in Yosemite National Park) which is also a non-profit. Your participation helps us provide scholarships for disadvantaged youth to participate in our summer backpacking series.
2024 Dates:
6/15-6/19
6/27-7/1
7/13-7/17
8/10-8/14
8/24-8/28
9/7-9/11
Book Today on Viator From $2200.00
4-Day Olympic Backpacking Tour in North Coast
The Olympic North Coast Backpacking trip offers a unique opportunity for guests to intimately explore the coastal regions along some of the most northwestern points in the continental United States. Traverse coastal forests to reach the beach, where wave-carved rock formations, teeming tide pools, and rugged cliffs await your presence. These shores are far from typical tropical beaches; they are the awe-inspiring, epic rocky shorelines you see in the movies. While this trail lacks strenuous elevation gain, it far makes up for it in its rocky obstacles. Our expedition offers a distinctive experience mastering the art of tide tables, tide timing, and headland conquests. This adventure demands a flexible attitude and adventurous spirit, promising remarkable moments of awe in pristine wilderness.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $2000.00
Scenic Drives
Drive the scenic routes like Hurricane Ridge Road and the coastal roads to take in panoramic views of the park.
Olympic Full Day Small Group Tour
Take a tour that lets you immerse yourself in the park. Our guides are master naturalists, botanists, geologists, historians, and - most importantly - relentlessly curious! This is not just a sightseeing tour, it's a day all about learning and connection.
Olympic National Park is sometimes called “three parks in one” because of its diversity of landscapes - from dense old growth forests to high alpine meadows to coastal ecosystems. Today, you’ll head to the coast for a visit to stunning destinations including the Kalaloch beaches and the Hoh rainforest.
Groups are capped at 8 adventurers so you can get a truly immersive and personal experience.
Book Today on Viator From $299.00
Olympic Audio Driving Tour
Download the GuideAlong self-guided audio tour and you'll discover more on your Olympic National Park road trip. Hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions play automatically, all based on your location.
You'll be guided to all of the park's famous highlights as well as lessor known gems including the most easily accessed mountain area in the park with superb views and hiking trails, a unique temperate rainforest where you can walk amongst giant trees, and incredible beaches rich with tidepools.
Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you, and bypass any that don’t.
✅ Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location
✅ Travel at your own pace
✅ Tour offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed
✅ Suggested itineraries for half, full or multi day use
✅ No time limits or expiry, free updates
✅ Like having a tour guide along for the drive
Purchase one tour per vehicle.
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Hiking
Explore over 611 miles of trails that take you through diverse ecosystems including rainforests, mountains, and coastline.
Olympic Full Day Private Tour and Hike
Our guides team is made up of Master Naturalists, experts with Master's Degrees in Outdoor and Sustainability Education, and more!
Olympic National Park is sometimes called “three parks in one” because of its diversity of landscapes - from dense old growth forests to high alpine meadows to coastal ecosystems. Today, you’ll head to the coast for a visit to stunning destinations including the Kalaloch beaches and the Hoh rainforest. Today’s tour is tailored to your group and your guide will work with you to design the perfect day!
Book Today on Viator From $701.25
Private Day Hike- Rialto Beach Tide Pooling
At low tide, you will marvel at the endless tide pools full of sea stars, anemones, crabs and other creatures. Perhaps you will be lucky enough to spot migrating whales in the distant crashing waves, as well as sea otters or sea lions. A couple miles down the beach is Hole-in-the-Wall, a massive, natural arch that you can walk through, as the tide allows. Our hike offer the opportunity to extend the tour past Hole-in-the-Wall, should you desire to explore further. Be sure to pack an extra layer, and shoes that you do not mind getting wet, as the Pacific Ocean can be deceptively chilly.
Tide Pooling: Our Rialto Beach Tide Pooling hike is available every day listed, but tidal patterns may vary. The hike can be enjoyed at low or high tide but if your intention is to join us to see tide pools, we advise booking a day with low tide in the morning (between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM). Please use the link below to help plan your visit.
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Private Day Hike to Maiden Peak (6-8 hours)
If you are interested in an Olympic day hike that has it all, then look no further than our Maiden Peak tour. This tour explores the eastern section of the Grand Ridge trail, the highest maintained trail in Olympic National Park. The trail starts at 5,300 feet in Deer Park and meanders through subalpine forested mountainsides, meadows carpeted in wildflowers, and finishes at 6,200 feet on Maiden Peak. Along the way, you will get unparalleled, wide open views of the northern Cascade Mountains including Mt. Baker to the east, Vancouver Island nestled in the stunning Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north, and Grand Valley and panoramic views of the Olympic mountains to the South. This challenging hike is a favorite amongst our guides and we are certain it will be one of yours as well.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $350.00