Olympic National Park Things to Do

The closest access to the Kestner Homestead. The homestead can also be reached via trails from the Quinault Rain Forest Ranger Station.

Trail to beach from Kalaloch Campground Loop A.

Trail to the beach from Loop D of Kalaloch Campground.

RV dump station for Kalaloch Campground.

Information and campsite registration for Kalaloch Campground.

Kalaloch Creek Nature Trail is a short (0.8 mile/1.3 km) loop through coastal rain forest, starting in Loop A of the Kalaloch campground.

This striking historic lodge is open year-round and was built in 1953 from wood milled from the giant drift logs that still wash up today. It sits right above the beach, looking out at the water, and has rooms and cabins available upon reservation. There is a dining room with ocean views, a gift shop, and a general store.www.thekalalochlodge.com

Be careful on this trail from Kalaloch Campground to Kalaloch Lodge, much of the short route is right alongside Highway 101.

The ranger station building is currently closed as Covid-19 safety measure, with information set up outside. With a whale skull and wooden canoe outside, the Kalaloch Ranger Station is hard to miss! Inside, you'll find exhibits and information, plus maps and books for sale. Pick up a tide chart while you're there to plan your beach hikes or tidepooling! Open summer only.

Learn about homestead life on this flat, self-guided 1.3-mile (2.1 km) loop from the Quinault Rain Forest Ranger Station.

Learn about homestead life on this flat, self-guided 1.3-mile (2.1 km) loop from the Quinault Rain Forest Ranger Station.

Enjoy a picnic near the Hoh Rain Forest Campground

RV dump station for Hoh Rain Forest Campground

Entrance Station for the Hoh Rain Forest area of the park

Restroom at Hoh Rain Forest entrance station

Parking for fishing access on the Hoh River

Hoh Rain Forest park entrance sign

Loop B Registration

Loop C Registration

Open in summer for groceries and boat rentals. olympicnationalparks.com/things-to-do/shopping/fairholme-store/

Walk-in sites

Managed by the U.S. Forest Service. https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/olympic/recarea/?recid=47745

One of the most accessible waterfalls, located just off the road.

Historic structure

Scenic viewpoint.

Campground registration and restrooms.

At just 0.6 miles (1 km), this lovely loop trail is a bit of peace just off the Sol Duc Hot Springs Road. Within moments, you are immersed in the deep green of classic Olympic Old Growth. The Olympic Peninsula lowlands, with their mild climate, deep soils and generous rainfall, grow giant trees. These old survivors record centuries of history in their massive trunks. When scientists use the term old growth, they are usually referring to Douglas-fir/western hemlock forests wi

At just 0.6 miles (1 km), this lovely loop trail is a bit of peace just off the Sol Duc Hot Springs Road. Within moments, you are immersed in the deep green of classic Olympic Old Growth. The Olympic Peninsula lowlands, with their mild climate, deep soils and generous rainfall, grow giant trees. These old survivors record centuries of history in their massive trunks. When scientists use the term old growth, they are usually referring to Douglas-fir/western hemlock forests wi

This trail is a starting point for overnight backpacking trips. Visit nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/wic.htm to plan a backpacking trip!

A trail through Sitka spruce trees, many of them with large, knobby burls, leads to this less-visited beach north of South Beach. The beach itself has countless massive drift-logs, weathered by their time at sea. Look for bald eagles nesting nearby!

Parking is VERY limited for Beach 2, so if spaces are full, choose another beach rather than parking unsafely along Highway 101. The short trail to this beach features distinctive "burls" on the spruce trees.

Parking is limited on the shoulder of Highway 101, but this charming beach is worth visiting when you can find a space and brave the steep trail.

Scenic beach in the Kalaloch area of the Olympic Coast

A short but rather steep trail through coastal forest leads to a lovely driftwood footbridge and Beach 4. A wonderful place to tidepool and look for seals, with particular treats for those interested in geology - Swiss cheese textured stone! The phenomenon is caused by piddock clams, which burrow into solid rock to protect themselves from the pounding surf.

Scenic overlook above Beach 4.

There is no trail at Beach 6, but it's perfect for a quick view of the Pacific. Pull off highway 101 to park safely at the overlook. Bring binoculars to look for sea otters and migrating whales!

This wide, sandy beach is very popular! The so-called Tree of Life is a beloved photo subject, but it is NOT a safe place to hang your hammock or practice your parallel bars routine. The creek has slowly eroded the earth beneath the tree's roots, and we hope it can hang in there for a long time.

Even half-fallen, the height and mass of this forest giant are incredible.

This campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. More information at https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/olympic/recarea/?recid=47789

Stop here before and after boating to clean off your boat (raft, kayak, paddleboard, or floatie) and keep invasive zebra mussels and other "hitchhikers," which can rapid and irreversible harm to lakes. It's free and easy to use!

Stop here before and after boating to clean off your boat (raft, kayak, paddleboard, or floatie) and keep invasive zebra mussels and other "hitchhikers," which can rapid and irreversible harm to lakes. It's free and easy to use!

Stop here before and after boating to clean off your boat (raft, kayak, paddleboard, or floatie) and keep invasive zebra mussels and other "hitchhikers," which can rapid and irreversible harm to lakes. It's free and easy to use!

Located in the Makah Reservation, outside Olympic National Park near the town of Neah Bay. The short (¾ miles/1.2 km each way) trail leads through the forest to a viewing platform, perched on a cliff with a dramatic view overlooking the Pacific. Cape Flattery is the Northwest most point on the contiguous United States. To park at the trailhead, obtain a permit from the Makah Tribe. There is a restroom at the trailhead, and daytime parking for cars and RVs. Please pack out al

This half-mile (0.8 km), easy, paved trail has views of Port Angeles and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. While exploring the ridge please keep your distance from wildlife and stay on paved paths or snow to avoid damaging fragile meadows.

Boat access to Quillayute River near Rialto Beach

No longer accessible to vehicles, the first part of this trail is a former road that begins a trek into the wilderness of the Olympic Mountains. If you plan to make this the start of an overnight backpacking trip, check in with the Wilderness Information Center https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/wic.htm

Located on the northern edge of the Olympic Peninsula, just outside of the town of Sequim, WA, Dungeness Spit offers a haven for wild birds and a historic lighthouse. While it is not a part of Olympic National Park, it is popular with locals and visitors alike for its hiking and bird-watching. From the refuge: "At Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge one of the world's longest natural sand spits softens the rough sea waves to form a tranquil bay, fertile tideflats, and beaches

The ranger station is not regularly staffed.

This set of exhibits is a great place to learn about the history of the Elwha River, its importance to the Klallam people, and the process of dam removal and river restoration.

A short hike from the Elwha River Restoration Interpretive Center leads to the site of one of the former dams, where you can see just how much the river valley has changed in the ongoing restoration process. Depending on the time of year, foliage may make it difficult to see the site of the dam.

Artistic and cultural exhibits at the heritage center explore the Elwha River restoration and Ä,Ì•ixʷícÉ™n village artifacts. (The name of the village site, Ä,Ì•ixʷícÉ™n, which means inner harbor.) The building is also used for trainings, gatherings, and tribal offices. Learn more here: elwha.org/departments/elwha-klallam-heritage-center/

Currently closed. Not staffed.

Fee Station, Currently closed for road construction

For those looking for longer hikes, you can continue from the High Ridge trail out toward Klahanne Ridge and Mount Angeles, where you may connect to other trails, or simply turn back to Hurricane Ridge.

Boat launch

A 0.8 mile (1.3 km) loop through old growth forest.

A 0.8 mile (1.3 km) loop through old growth forest.

RV dump station

Loop A Registration

La Push/First Beach is the home of the Quileute Nation. You can learn about the history of this area here: https://quileutenation.org/history/ While visiting the Quileute Nation, please observe proper ettiquette as follows (quoted from Quileute Nation website): "The Quileute Tribe is a Sovereign Nation which means they have their own government inside of the United States that consists of a Tribal Council. The Quileute Tribe makes decisions on how best to balance community a

Managed by the U.S. Forest Service. https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/olympic/recreation/recarea/?recid=47749&actid=70

Accessible via a 3.4 mile ( 5.5 km) hike on the road and bypass trail from the Madison Falls parking lot. Perched on what was once the spillway of the Glines Canyon Dam, visitors can enjoy expansive views of the wide valley that formerly held the Lake Mills reservoir. Lake Mills formed when the Glines Canyon Dam was built between 1925 and 1927, flooding an area known at the time as Smokey Bottom. The overlook also gives people the chance to look down and watch the Elwha's blu

Registration board for Graves Creek Campground.

A one mile (1.6 km) loop through the rain forest. Find the trailhead across from the restrooms in the Graves Creek Campground.

Unstaffed.

Graves Creek Trailhead is a gateway to the Wilderness, where many backpackers begin their journeys (to make your own backcountry plans, contact the Wilderness Information Center nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/wilderness.htm. For more information on Wilderness Information Center locations and hours, go to nps.gov/olymp/planyourvisit/wic.htm.) Shorter day trips on this trail will take you over a high bridge above Graves Creek, the first of many creeks the trail traverses through th

A steep, 2.8 mile (4.5 km) each way trail, with views of the Elwha River. Due to road washout, park at Madison Falls and take the road and bypass trail to get to the trailhead, about 1.8 miles (2.9 km) down the road. The trail starts behind the (currently non-operational) Elwha Ranger Station.

A particularly magical section of the trail.

This short and sweet loop is the definitive rain forest experience. Look for young Coho salmon as you cross Taft Creek, then wander through a wonderland of moss, trees, and ferns - including an iconic moss-draped archway. The trail is just 0.8 miles (1.3 km) long, but you may be tempted to stay for hours!

A popular boat launch for boaters and anglers.

Restroom near Hartzell Creek

This 2.3 mile (3.7) km one way trail is a lovely, level trek through the forest. Starts at Loop E in the Heart O' the Hills campground.

Heart O’ The Hills Campground Amphitheater.

Entrance station located on Hurricane Ridge Road.

Campground registration and restrooms.

Campground registration and restrooms.

Amphitheater for Hoh Rain Forest Campground

Restrooms and campsite registration for Loop A of Hoh Rain Forest Campground

Location: The Hoh Rain Forest Area Description: The Hoh Campground is located in the Hoh Rain Forest, near the banks of the Hoh River. Some sites are right next to the river! 88 campsites, one accessible, fire pits with grates, accessible restrooms, water, animal-proof food storage. Open: Year-round.Accessibility: One wheelchair accessible campsite, accessible restrooms.RVs: Sites can accommodate 21-foot RVs, and a few can accommodate 35-foot RVs. No dump station.

Restrooms and campsite registration for Loop C of Hoh Rain Forest Campground

The Hoh River Trail (17.3 miles/27.8 km one way) is a starting point for backpackers headed toward Mount Olympus, but there's no rule that says you have to go that far! (If you do want to, contact the Wilderness Information Center to make a backpacking plan. www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/wilderness.htm has locations and hours). For a peaceful out-and-back day hike (aka just turn around and come back when you're ready), the first section of the Hoh River Trail is mostly level

Three trails begin just outside the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center: The Hoh River Trail (17.4 miles/28 km one way), a starting point for backpackers headed toward Mount Olympus or for a longer day hike, and two short loop trails, the Hall of Mosses and the Spruce Nature Trail. The Hoh is a wildlife hot spot - within just a few steps of the trailhead, you might see Roosevelt elk, river otters, birds, Coho salmon, black bears, or even a bobcat! In winter when the Coho return fr

Stock corral for the Hoh Rain Forest area

Perhaps the shortest trail in the park! Full Accessibility Description: Length: 800 feet Surface Type: Compacted gravel Typical Trail Width: 4-6 feet Typical Running Slope: Under 5% Typical Cross Slope: Less than 1% Elevation Gain/Loss: Less than 15 feet Accessible Parking: Van-accessible parking immediately across from park information boards Description: The Hoh parking area has five van-accessible parking spaces. From the parking area, cross the crosswalk and turn right to reach the trailhead where several boards display information about the area. From the park information boards, proceed forward for 310 feet and then follow to the left at the intersection. Trailside benches can be found at 200 feet on the left and at 360 feet on the right. Continue to the next intersection at 450 feet and turn left again. At 475 feet, cross an 8-foot long bridge. Continue forward for 70 feet to a second bridge that is 25-feet long with a 2-inch drop when going off the other end. At 605 feet, there is a tree root across most of the trail, 1-2 inches high. Continue forward to reach the visitor center at 660 feet. To complete the loop, follow the sidewalk around the visitor center towards the parking area.

Picnic area near the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center

Rangers present intermittently in summer. Located inside the Hoodsport Visitor Information Center, the Hoodsport Wilderness Information Center issues back-country permits and bear cans for safe food storage, and provides current trail and in-depth backpacking information. Get a head start by visiting https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/wic.htm

Open only in summer, located one mile (1.6 km) beyond the visitor center. Lovely meadow area with mountain views, restrooms, water, and paved trails to tables.

Open summer only, located one mile (1.6 km) beyond the visitor center, with restrooms, water and paved trails to tables. The parking area doubles as overflow parking for the Hurricane Hill Trail, just a short walk through the forest away.

One of the most popular day hikes is the Hurricane Hill trail, about 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip and climbing 700 feet (213 meters) to a high point with 360-degree views in clear weather. The trailhead is at the end of the road, just 1.3 miles (2.1 km) past the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center. Overflow parking is available at Picnic Area B.

Hurricane Ridge Road This is the easiest way to reach beautiful panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and explore the subalpine ecosystem, just a 45-minute drive from Port Angeles. Drive carefully and keep an eye out for rocks and wildlife on the road! In winter, the road may be closed certain days (it is generally plowed on weekends as weather allows), and all vehicles are required to carry tire chains in case of icy road conditions. The road to Hurricane Ridge leads up 1

This 2.8 mile/4.5 km round trip, creek-side hike leads through the forest to Irely Lake. There may be stream crossings, and there is a ladder at the end that you will need both hands to climb. Always carry your Ten Essentials, and contact the Wilderness Information Center for trail conditions or to plan an overnight trip in the backcountry.https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/wic.htmhttps://www.nps.gov/articles/10essentials.htm

This flat, 0.4 mile (0.6 km) loop trail winds through the forest to James Pond. Look for yellow pond lilies in summer!

A loop branching from the July Creek Picnic Area trail.

July Creek Picnic Area has a short trail to tables for a picnic with a view on the North shore of Lake Quinault.

Amphitheater at Kalaloch Campground.

Trailhead to Kalaloch Campground amphitheater.

The trail and stairs that reach the beach have been damaged by storm activity, but there is still a fire pit and viewpoint at this location.

An easy one-mile loop trail leads to this forest giant. Even half-fallen, its height and mass are incredible.

Trailhead to the beach from the Kalaloch Campground.

Fish cleaning station and restroom for Kalaloch Campground.

In the late summer and early fall, salmon can be seen leaping from Salmon Cascades on the Sol Duc River! Get a glimpse on a viewing platform located above the cascades.

In the park, we humans are privileged to be visitors to wild animals' home. We can treat their home with respect and care.

Near the Olympic National Park Visitor Center, two short loop hikes take visitors through peaceful, green lowland forests.

Madison Falls is a stunning 60-foot waterfall near the Elwha River. It's also one of the most accessible destinations at the park, making it a great stop for families and visitors of all abilities. 

A trip to the Olympic Coast is sure to be memorable! Olympic National Park contains several beach areas along the coast, each with something to offer. Learn more about popular beaches and start planning your trip!

Take a peaceful stroll at Barnes Point on Lake Crescent on the Moments in Time Trail.

Pets: they’re our faithful friends and loyal companions. But at Olympic National Park, they aren’t allowed everywhere! You can still have a great time at Olympic with pets, but be sure to read carefully and follow the rules so you know what to do and where to go.

While this app is a great tool for "front country" visits (places you can get to with a car, bike, or short hike), it's not meant to guide you through the back country. For that we have the Wilderness Information Center - WIC for short. The WIC rangers can talk through routes, gear, and trail conditions with you, and set you up with a permit.

Hurricane Ridge provides opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding, tubing and more. Hurricane Ridge's winter season is generally mid-December through the end of March.

There are special places that allow you to see sea creatures up close without leaving the beach! Tidepools are home to fascinating creatures like sea stars, anemones, barnacles, nudibranchs, crabs, and more.