Olympic National Park Guide

Picture of Olympic National Park
Picture of Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park's true distinction lies in its stunning diversity. Few places on earth have so much of everything: human and natural history, unusual flora and fauna, utter wilderness, and spots for every kind of outdoor recreation. Read More »

Olympic National Park Highlights

  • The park is located in the northwestern corner of Washington state and contains almost 900,000 acres of wilderness. The terrain includes ocean shores, Pacific temperate rainforest, alpine glaciers, and 600 miles of trail providing access to the park.
  • Many of the trails within the glorious Olympic National Park are suitable for horseback riding, but Wilderness Camping Permits are required for all overnight trips, and some areas require reservations.
  • Anglers fishing for trout within park boundaries do not need a license to catch and release. You'll need a Washington State fishing license to fish outside of park boundaries and a state punch card to fish for salmon or steelhead.
  • The National Park Service operates 16 campgrounds with a total of 910 sites. All are first come, first served, and some are open year-round. Backcountry camping permits are available at all ranger stations for wilderness or beach camping.

By Travel Expert: Jeremy Pataky
  • For a relaxing and easy exploration of the Hoh Rainforest, take either of the two short trails that start near the visitor center. Both the Hall of Mosses Trail, an 0.8-mile loop trail, and the Spruce Nature Trail, a 1.2-mile loop trail, are wonderful introductions to the lush forests.
  • For a fun jaunt along the coast, take an easy walk along the Ozette Coastal Loop. Following an elevated boardwalk trail, you will see coastal forest and the beach. The best season for this trail is April through October.
  • If the coast is your favorite spot in the park, head to Rialto Beach where you can walk along a rocky beach, watch waves crash onto offshore islands, and perhaps spot a bald eagle.
By Travel Expert: Karen Kefauver
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