Olympic National Park - Adventure awaits!

Olympic National Park encompasses a wide range of climates and elevation, reaching from mountain peaks to the Pacific coast. With nearly a million acres to explore, the park protects many different ecosystems. Its a vast wilderness, complete with old-growth temperate rain forests. This spectacular playground is one of my favorite things about living on the Olympic Peninsula. You can never run out of things to do.

The view from one of my backpacking trips in Olympic National Park. It’s like you’re on top of the world!

What To Do in Olympic National Park

Boating & kayaking on rivers (Elwha, Hoh), lakes (Crescent), and along the coasts
Fishing in all seasons
Exploring Tidepools along the rugged shoreline
Camping at one of Olympic’s 16 campgrounds.
Day Hikes on one of the many trails
Backpacking
Wildlife Viewing
Photography
Ranger Led Programs
Night Sky Programs – Away from the city lights, the skies above Olympic are stargazer’s dream.
Winter Activities – Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowshoeing

Hot Spots in Olympic National Park

If you have only a day to explore the park, I’d recommend hitting these hot spots. Hurricane Ridge and Marymere Falls. Both are easily accessible and offer stunning view points. Hurricane Ridge Road is open throughout summer, and stretches 17 miles south of Port Angeles, ending at the lodge parking lot on top of the ridge. On a clear day, the peaks of the Olympic Mountains stretch as far as the eye can see to the south, making you feel like you’re on the top of the world. Over the ridge to the North, you can see all the way to Victoria, BC across the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Marymere Falls is a fairly easy hike, starting on the shores of Lake Crescent, crossing a couple log bridges over a river and a stream, and ending in a steep stairway to the foot of the 90-foot falls.

Where to Stay

Campsites with water and electrical hookups are available at the concession-operated Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort and the Log Cabin Resort. Campgrounds are first-come, first-serve. Payment by cash or check only. Remember to check road conditions, campground status, and the campground opening and closing dates before your visit. Pets are permitted on a leash (up to 6′) in campgrounds, picnic and parking areas.

Lake Crescent Lodge

Built in 1915, this historic 55 room lodge is a popular destination on Lake Crescent. The rocky beach is filled with daytrippers and sunbathers on summer days. If you can brave the chilly water of the glacier fed lake, take a dive off the dock. The water is unbelievably clear, and you can see the lakebed below your kayak as you paddle across. If it’s too cold to be on the water, you can still enjoy a hike along the trails around the lake. Don’t forget your camera!
Season: May – January, some cabins available on weekends during winter.
Accommodations: Cottages, cabins, and lodge rooms.
Amenities: Restaurant, gift store, and kayak rentals.
Reservations: www.olympicnationalparks.com/lodging/lake-crescent-lodge

Log Cabin Resort (on Lake Crescent)

Season: Late May – September
Accommodations: 4 Lodge Rooms & 12 A-Frame Chalets, 11 Rustic & Camper Cabins, RV Park, Tent Sites
Amenities: Cafe, deli, gift shop, convenience store, laundry, and boat rentals.
Activities: Boat rentals (paddle boats, stand up paddleboards, canoes, kayak), lawn games, trails to hike
Reservations: www.olympicnationalparks.com/lodging/log-cabin-resort

Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort

Season: March – October
Accommodations: Campsites, cabins, and suites.
Amenities: Hot spring pools, restaurant, deli, convenience store and gift shop.
Activities: Hike to Sol Duc Falls, lounge in the hot springs
Reservations: www.olympicnationalparks.com/lodging/sol-duc-hot-springs-resort

For more information about Olympic National Park, visit: www.nps.gov/olym

If you are interested in moving to the Olympic Peninsula, feel free to contact me at:
Windermere Real Estate/Sequim-East
Rick Brown
360.775.5780 Cell
rickbrown@olypen.com