Travel to Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park had been on my list of must-get-to-one-day-soon destinations in the Pacific Northwest, but it took nearly 20 years to get here. We made sure to go in the shoulder season to avoid crowds and to take advantage of lower rates for accommodation.
We also made sure before travelling to Olympic National Park to check for the latest park updates. The summer of 2023 had a number of wildfires in the park that affected road, trail and campsite openings.
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Top 10 things to do in Olympic National Park
1. Lake Crescent
The water is so clear in Lake Crescent that in some places it is possible to see at least 60-feet-down. This lake is the only place in the world you can find Crescenti and Beardslee trout.

Lake Crescent Lodge on the shore of the stunning reflective lake by the same name. Photo credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

The reflective beauty of stunning Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park. Photo credit – Wendy Nordvik-Carr

The reflective beauty of stunning Lake Crescent. This is one of the top 10 things to do in Olympic National Park. Photo credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
2. Hurricane Ridge
3. Sol Duc Valley
Sol Duc Valley features Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, which is only open during the summer.
4. Kalaloch Beach
Kalaloch Beach, wide and pristine, is perfect for long beach walks. Watch the spectacular sunrise and sunset from the bluff.

Explore endless beaches when you travel to Olympic National Park to discover a wild, vast wilderness of nature at its best. Kalaloch Beach is one of the many top 10 things to do in Olympic National Park Photo credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
5. Ruby Beach
6. Hoh Rain Forest

Explore lush green Hoh Rain Forest filled with ferns and moss. This is one of the many top 10 things to do in Olympic National Park Photo credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
7. Ozette beaches
8. Rialto Beach
9. Mora Beach
10. Quinault Rainforest
Quick Facts about Olympic National Park
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The park opened June 29, 1938.
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Olympic National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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It is a designated United National International Biosphere Reserve.
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The rainforest receives 12-14 feet of rainfall each year.
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The United States has three temperate rainforests, all located on the Olympic Peninsula.
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In 2011, the largest dam removal in US history began on the Elwha River.
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The west coast marine area is protected by three national refuges and the Olympic Coast Marine Sanctuary.
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More than 250 bird species can be found on the peninsula.
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Roosevelt elk, black bears, cougars and mountain goats are a few of the 70 species of mammals in the park.
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There are up to 4,000 Roosevelt elk living in the park.
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50,000 artifacts discovered on Ozette Beach made it one of North America’s richest archeological sites.
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Lake Crescent water is so clear that in some places it is possible to see at least 60 feet down. This lake is the only place in the world you can find Crescenti and Beardslee trout.
- More than 50,000 people camp in the park each year.

Discover the charming historic Dalby Water Wheel on the Olympic Peninsula. Explore the top 10 things to do in Olympic National Park. Photo credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
What to know before you go to Olympic National Park
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Take time to plan your visit to avoid disappointment.
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Make reservations for all accommodations including campsites. The popular summer season sells out fast for available spots. Many facilities are seasonal.
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Check road closures within the park.
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Make ferry reservations.
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Always check the tide charts.
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Wear good sturdy shoes or hiking boots and bring weatherproof clothing or rain gear. Plan to dress in layers.
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Bring a camera and a pair of binoculars.
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Read wildlife safety tips.
IMPORTANT: Make sure you have enough fuel to reach your planned destination. Gas stations are not plentiful. We almost ran out of gas after hiking in the Hoy Rain Forest.
Prepare for this great adventure by reading the National Park Services wilderness guide. The guide will give you the top 10 essentials for exploring this remote area. Read about wildlife safety tips.
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Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, a travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National PD Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW & NATJA.
Have you been here? Want to go or have other tips or comments. We'd love to hear from you.