Things to do in Olympic National Park
A huge Pacific Northwest park combining glacier-capped mountains, temperate rain forest, wild coastline, lakes, and river valleys.
Best months: June, July, August, September
What is worth your time in Olympic National Park
Lake CrescentDo not miss
The deep glacial lake offers clear blue water, mountain reflections, historic lodging, and easy roadside scenery.
Viewpoint · 1.8 hr4.9
Hall of Mosses TrailDo not miss
The short loop is the classic Hoh Rain Forest walk through moss-draped maples, nurse logs, and emerald understory.
Hike · 1.1 hr4.8
Hurricane RidgeDo not miss
The paved mountain road climbs to the park’s easiest alpine panorama of Olympic peaks and wildflower meadows.
Viewpoint · 2.3 hr4.8
Rialto BeachDo not miss
Drift logs, sea stacks, cobbles, and surf make Rialto one of Olympic’s most dramatic easily reached beaches.
Viewpoint · 1.8 hr4.8
Hoh Rain ForestDo not miss
The visitor center area and short trails offer the park’s most iconic temperate rain forest experience and a good rainy-day orientation.
Ranger Program · 2.3 hr4.7
Hurricane Hill Trail
A paved high-country trail climbs to sweeping views of the Olympics, Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Vancouver Island.
Hike · 2.5 hr5
Sol Duc Falls Trail
A short old-growth forest trail reaches one of Olympic’s most photogenic waterfalls.
Hike · 1.5 hr5
Staircase Rapids Loop
A forested river loop on the park’s southeast side offers mossy old growth and a quieter family hike.
Hike · 2 hr5
Cape Flattery Trail
The short Makah-area trail reaches boardwalk viewpoints over sea caves and the northwestern tip of the contiguous United States.
Hike · 1.5 hr4.9
Second Beach
A short forest descent reaches a broad wilderness beach with sea stacks and strong sunset payoff.
Hike · 2.5 hr4.9
Spruce Nature Trail
A mellow loop adds river views and rain forest variety beyond the Hall of Mosses.
Hike · 1.3 hr4.9
Madison Falls Trail
A very short paved walk reaches a pretty waterfall in the Elwha Valley, useful for families and limited-mobility travelers.
Hike · 33 min4.8
Marymere Falls Trail
A forest walk from Lake Crescent reaches a graceful waterfall in a mossy ravine.
Hike · 1.6 hr4.8
Quinault Rain Forest
The south-side rain forest loop offers giant trees, lake views, waterfalls, and a quieter Olympic experience.
Scenic Drive · 3 hr4.8
And 2 more, which the planner picks between based on your dates, pace and what you are into.
Worth knowing
- Olympic is famous for its rare combination of Hurricane Ridge alpine views, Hoh Rain Forest moss, rugged Pacific beaches, and wilderness backpacking.