things to do in olympic national park

Olympic National Park, located in Washington State, is a diverse and stunning park that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some things to do in Olympic National Park:

Hiking and Backpacking

1. Hurricane Ridge: Hike to the top of Hurricane Ridge for stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
2. Lake Quinault: Explore the Quinault Rainforest and hike to the lake, which is surrounded by old-growth forest and offers stunning views.
3. Hoh River Trail: Hike through the Hoh Rainforest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in the United States.
4. Ozette Loop Trail: Hike through the coastal forest and along the beach, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Wildlife and Nature

1. Whale Watching: Take a guided tour to spot gray whales, humpback whales, and other marine life.
2. Tidepooling: Explore the tidepools at Kalaloch Beach and Ruby Beach to see anemones, starfish, and other marine creatures.
3. Birdwatching: Olympic National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 300 species of birds documented.
4. Wildlife Viewing: Spot black bears, mountain goats, and Roosevelt elk in their natural habitats.

Scenic Drives and Viewpoints

1. Hurricane Ridge Road: Drive to the top of Hurricane Ridge for stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.
2. Olympic Coast Highway: Drive along the coast and stop at viewpoints, beaches, and tidepools.
3. Lake Crescent: Drive to the lake and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Sol Duc Valley: Drive through the valley and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.

Other Activities

1. Camping: Olympic National Park has several campgrounds, including Kalaloch Campground and Ozette Campground.
2. Fishing: Fish for salmon, steelhead, and other species in the park’s lakes and streams.
3. Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore the park’s lakes and coastal waters by kayak or canoe.
4. Star Gazing: Olympic National Park is known for its dark skies, making it an ideal spot for stargazing.

Must-see Attractions

1. Ruby Beach: Known for its stunning sunsets and tidepools.
2. Kalaloch Beach: Famous for its scenic views and tidepools.
3. Lake Quinault Lodge: A historic lodge that offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
4. Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center: Learn about the park’s unique ecosystem and explore the surrounding rainforest.

Tips and Essentials

1. Weather: Olympic National Park is known for its rain, so be prepared with waterproof gear and clothing.
2. Permits: Some activities, such as backpacking and camping, require permits.
3. Safety: Be aware of wildlife, steep cliffs, and other hazards in the park.
4. Accommodations: Olympic National Park has several lodges and campgrounds, but book early to ensure availability.

Overall, Olympic National Park offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors, from hiking and backpacking to wildlife viewing and scenic drives.