Discover Olympic National Park - A Wilderness Tapestry of Mountains, Forests, and Coast
Explore Olympic National Park's diverse ecosystems. Hike ancient rainforests, scale glacier-clad peaks, and stroll rugged Pacific beaches. Plan your adventure today!
Olympic National Park isn’t just a park; it’s a world unto itself, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve that feels like several distinct adventures rolled into one magnificent expanse. Nestled on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, this incredible land encompasses three dramatically different ecosystems: the glacier-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains, vast ancient temperate rainforests, and a rugged, wild Pacific coastline.
Imagine stepping from the misty, moss-draped silence of an old-growth forest, where towering trees reach for the heavens, to breathtaking alpine meadows in the morning. By afternoon, your boots could be sinking into driftwood-strewn sand on a dramatic beach, where sea stacks pierce the sky and tide pools teem with vibrant life. It’s a place where every turn reveals a new, awe-inspiring landscape.
This diverse tapestry of environments offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration and discovery, inviting visitors to witness the raw power and serene beauty of the Pacific Northwest in its most pristine form. Whether you seek strenuous mountain hikes, tranquil forest walks, or the dramatic solitude of the coast, Olympic National Park promises an unforgettable journey.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
The Olympic Mosaic: Three Worlds in One
Olympic National Park stands apart from nearly every other national park, not just for its immense scale, but for its unparalleled ecological breadth. Within its boundaries, you can explore the high-elevation majesty of the Olympic Mountains, delve into the lush, moss-draped depths of a temperate rainforest, and discover the rugged, untamed beauty of a Pacific coastline, all within a few hours’ drive of each other. This extraordinary trifecta of environments is its defining feature, allowing visitors to experience an incredible range of natural wonders in a single trip.
This dramatic diversity provides a habitat for an astonishing array of plant and animal life, from the Roosevelt elk bugling in the valleys to bald eagles soaring over the coast, and the vibrant marine life thriving in its tide pools. The ancient rainforests, like the famous Hoh and Quinault, are prime examples of old-growth ecosystems, characterized by towering trees, abundant ferns, and a thick carpet of emerald moss. Meanwhile, the coastline, with its iconic sea stacks and crashing waves, offers a dramatic contrast, inviting exploration and quiet contemplation of nature’s raw power.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
Hike the Hoh Rainforest Trails
Immerse yourself in the lush, moss-draped ancient trees of one of the world's best temperate rainforests. Enjoy easy loops like the Hall of Mosses or more challenging river trails.
Explore Hurricane Ridge
Drive to over 5,000 feet for panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Strait of Juan de Fuca, offering spectacular vistas and various hiking opportunities on paved and unpaved trails.
Tide Pooling at Ruby Beach
Discover fascinating marine life in tide pools among dramatic sea stacks and driftwood-strewn shores at low tide. This iconic beach offers stunning photo opportunities and coastal exploration.
Kayaking on Lake Crescent
Enjoy the serene, crystal-clear waters of a stunning glacial lake surrounded by mountains. Rent a kayak or canoe for a peaceful paddle or drive the scenic perimeter of the lake.
The Icons You’ll Want to See
Hurricane Ridge — Provides easily accessible panoramic views of the majestic Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Enjoy short, paved walks near the visitor center or challenge yourself on the 3.2-mile round trip Hurricane Hill Trail for even more stunning vistas. Located about 45 minutes from Port Angeles.
Hoh Rainforest — Step into an otherworldly temperate rainforest characterized by towering old-growth trees draped in vibrant green mosses. Walk the easy 0.8-mile Hall of Mosses Trail and the 1.2-mile Spruce Nature Trail to fully immerse yourself in this ancient ecosystem. Located about an hour from Forks.
Lake Crescent & Marymere Falls — A pristine, deep blue lake nestled among forested mountains. Rent kayaks or canoes for a paddle, or hike the easy 1.8-mile round-trip trail to the beautiful Marymere Falls, a rewarding, family-friendly walk through lush forest. Located about 30 minutes west of Port Angeles.
Ruby Beach & Kalaloch — Witness some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in the Lower 48. Ruby Beach is famed for its towering sea stacks, vast expanses of driftwood, and tide pools teeming with life (check tide charts). Nearby Kalaloch features the iconic “Tree of Life” defying erosion near its lodge and campground. Located about an hour south of Forks.
Sol Duc Hot Springs — A popular spot to relax and rejuvenate, offering mineral hot springs pools fed by natural geothermal waters. Day use passes are available, allowing visitors to soak away their hiking aches amidst a lush forest setting. Located about an hour from Lake Crescent.
Quinault Rainforest — Explore the lesser-known, yet equally stunning, Quinault Rainforest. Drive the scenic 31-mile Quinault Loop and take short walks to see some of the world’s largest trees, including the Quinault Big Cedar Tree and the World’s Largest Spruce Tree. The historic Lake Quinault Lodge offers a charming base for exploration. Located on the park’s southern edge.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Planning Your Visit
Planning your journey to Olympic National Park is essential to truly embrace its vastness and diversity. Due to its popularity, especially during the summer months, lodge accommodations and many campgrounds book out months in advance – sometimes as much as 6-12 months ahead for peak season lodges. Your own vehicle is absolutely indispensable for navigating the park, as distinct regions are separated by significant driving distances. The nearest major airport is Seattle-Tacoma (SEA), from which you’ll need a rental car to begin your adventure on the Olympic Peninsula (approx. 2.5-3 hours to Port Angeles).
Be prepared for limited to non-existent cell service throughout much of the park; download offline maps and essential information before you arrive. Pack layers, as weather can shift dramatically from chilly and wet in the rainforest to warm on the coast or cold in the mountains, often on the same day – waterproof outerwear is a non-negotiable. Always consult the official NPS website (nps.gov/olym) for current road conditions, trail closures, and weather updates before and during your visit. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, keep a safe distance from wildlife, and if exploring coastal areas, always check tide charts to ensure safe passage and avoid being trapped by high tide.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Summer (July-August)
Pros
- Warmest and driest weather, ideal for all activities.
- All park roads and trails are typically open.
- Long daylight hours for extended exploration.
- Best time for mountain hiking and wildlife viewing.
Cons
- Most crowded time of year, especially popular spots.
- Accommodation and campsites book up months in advance.
- Higher prices for lodging and flights.
- Some trails might be dusty due to lack of rain.
Shoulder Season: Spring (May-June) & Fall (September-October)
Pros
- Fewer crowds than summer.
- Beautiful vibrant rainforests and fall foliage.
- Lower accommodation prices and more availability.
- Good for coastal hikes and lower-elevation trails.
Cons
- Unpredictable weather with chances of rain.
- Some higher elevation roads and trails may still be closed by snow (Spring).
- Shorter daylight hours in fall.
- Limited services or closures in certain areas (e.g., Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort often closes in late fall).
Off-Peak: Winter (November-April)
Pros
- Very few crowds, offering a serene experience.
- Dramatic stormy coastline views and lush rainforests.
- Opportunity for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at Hurricane Ridge (conditions permitting).
- Often the lowest prices for lodging.
Cons
- Many park roads, including Hurricane Ridge, can be closed due to snow or ice.
- Cold, wet weather is common, limiting outdoor activities.
- Limited park services and visitor centers may be closed or have reduced hours.
- Challenging driving conditions, requiring chains for tires in some areas.
Olympic National Park isn’t merely a destination; it’s an immersive experience, a journey through distinct worlds woven together by wild beauty. From its mystical rainforests to its cloud-piercing mountains and rugged shores, it offers a profound connection to nature’s grandeur, leaving every visitor with a renewed sense of wonder and memories that will last a lifetime.
Sample Itineraries
3-Day Olympic Highlights: Mountains, Lake & Rainforest
Experience the most iconic regions of Olympic National Park: the panoramic views of Hurricane Ridge, the serene beauty of Lake Crescent, and the enchanting Hoh Rainforest.
-
Day 1: Alpine Peaks & Panoramic Views
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Begin your Olympic adventure by driving to Port Angeles, the main gateway to the park’s northern region. First, stop at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center (3002 Mount Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362) to purchase your America the Beautiful Pass or a 7-day vehicle entrance pass ($30, valid for 7 days per vehicle). Grab maps and ask about current trail conditions or road closures. From the visitor center, embark on a scenic 17-mile drive (approximately 30-45 minutes) up the Hurricane Ridge Road. The ascent offers increasingly dramatic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
- Practical Tip: Always check the Hurricane Ridge Road status online before you go, as it can close due to snow or adverse weather even in shoulder seasons. Pack layers as temperatures are significantly cooler at elevation.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
Spend the afternoon exploring Hurricane Ridge. Start by taking in the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views from the paved walkways around the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center. For hiking, choose from:
- Hurricane Hill Trail: A moderately challenging 3.2-mile round trip, mostly paved trail (can be gravel in sections) offering incredible views of the Olympic Mountain range, Vancouver Island, and the Strait. Allow 1.5-2 hours.
- Big Meadow Trail: An easier, mostly flat 0.5-mile loop through subalpine meadows, beautiful for wildflowers in summer.
- Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots at Hurricane Ridge. This offers flexibility and saves time and money, as food services are limited to snacks and drinks at the visitor center gift shop. (Estimated cost: $20-30 for two)
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards)
Drive back down Hurricane Ridge Road (approx. 30-45 minutes) to Port Angeles.
- Dinner Recommendation: Head to Port Angeles for dinner.
- Sasquatch Tavern: A casual spot known for pub fare, good burgers, and local craft beers. (Estimated cost: $40-60 for two)
- Next Door Gastropub: Offers a more refined pub experience with creative dishes and cocktails. (Estimated cost: $50-80 for two)
- Lodging: Check into your accommodation in Port Angeles. (Budget consideration for lodging: $150-250 per night for a mid-range hotel/motel).
- Dinner Recommendation: Head to Port Angeles for dinner.
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Begin your Olympic adventure by driving to Port Angeles, the main gateway to the park’s northern region. First, stop at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center (3002 Mount Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362) to purchase your America the Beautiful Pass or a 7-day vehicle entrance pass ($30, valid for 7 days per vehicle). Grab maps and ask about current trail conditions or road closures. From the visitor center, embark on a scenic 17-mile drive (approximately 30-45 minutes) up the Hurricane Ridge Road. The ascent offers increasingly dramatic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
-
Day 2: Serene Waters & Soothing Springs
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Enjoy breakfast at your Port Angeles accommodation or grab coffee and pastries. Drive west on US-101 (approx. 30-40 minutes) to the stunning Lake Crescent, a glacially carved lake known for its deep, crystal-clear blue waters. Park at the Storm King Ranger Station.
- Marymere Falls Trail: Embark on a beautiful, relatively easy 1.8-mile round trip hike (approx. 1 hour) through old-growth forest to the picturesque 90-foot Marymere Falls.
- Optional: For more ambitious hikers, consider the strenuous but rewarding Mount Storm King Trail for incredible views of the lake (note: this is a challenging 4.7-mile round trip with steep sections and rope assists, recommended for experienced hikers only).
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
- Lake Exploration & Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the historic Lake Crescent Lodge’s Dining Room (seasonal, reservations recommended) for American cuisine with scenic lake views (Estimated cost: $40-60 for two) or a packed lunch at a picnic area by the lake.
- Devil’s Punchbowl & Kayaking: Drive a short distance to the East Beach area or access the Spruce Railroad Trail from the north shore. Walk or bike along the scenic trail to the iconic Devil’s Punchbowl, a stunning aquamarine cove. Consider renting a kayak or canoe from Lake Crescent Lodge (seasonal, approx. $20-30/hour) to paddle the serene waters.
- Sol Duc Hot Springs: From Lake Crescent, drive west on US-101 and then south on Sol Duc Road (approx. 30 minutes from Lake Crescent Lodge). Relax and rejuvenate at the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. Enjoy a soothing soak in the natural mineral pools. (Entrance fee: approx. $18-20 per person for daily admission). Allow 1.5-2 hours.
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards)
After your therapeutic soak, drive west towards Forks (approx. 40 minutes from Sol Duc).
- Dinner Recommendation:
- Forks Outfitters Deli & Bakery: A local grocery store with a surprisingly good deli counter for casual, affordable meals. (Estimated cost: $20-30 for two)
- Sully’s Drive-In: A classic American diner offering burgers, fries, and shakes, popular with locals and visitors. (Estimated cost: $30-40 for two)
- Lodging: Check into your accommodation in Forks. (Budget consideration for lodging: $150-250 per night for a mid-range hotel/motel. Alternatively, if seeking a more rustic experience, look for cabins or resorts along the coast.)
- Dinner Recommendation:
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Enjoy breakfast at your Port Angeles accommodation or grab coffee and pastries. Drive west on US-101 (approx. 30-40 minutes) to the stunning Lake Crescent, a glacially carved lake known for its deep, crystal-clear blue waters. Park at the Storm King Ranger Station.
-
Day 3: Mystical Rainforest & Coastal Farewell
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Have breakfast in Forks. Drive south on US-101 and then turn east onto Upper Hoh Road (approx. 1 hour from Forks) to reach the iconic Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best examples of temperate rainforest in the world.
- Hall of Mosses Trail: Begin your exploration with the enchanting Hall of Mosses Trail, an easy 0.8-mile loop (approx. 30-45 minutes) through ancient Sitka spruce and western hemlock draped in vibrant green mosses, creating a magical atmosphere.
- Spruce Nature Trail: Continue with the Spruce Nature Trail, a slightly longer (1.2-mile loop, approx. 1 hour) and equally beautiful trail that winds along the Hoh River, offering different perspectives of the rainforest ecosystem.
- Practical Tip: Arrive early at Hoh to beat the crowds, especially during peak season (summer). Parking can fill up quickly.
- Afternoon (12:30 PM - 4:00 PM)
- Riverside Lunch & Optional Coastal Glimpse: Enjoy a packed picnic lunch by the Hoh River (no food services directly in the Hoh Rainforest except for a small gift shop with snacks; Estimated cost: $20-30 for two).
- Optional Coastal Stop (Ruby Beach): If time and interest allow before heading out of the park, drive west from US-101 near Kalaloch to Ruby Beach (approx. 45-60 minutes from Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center). It’s famous for its dramatic sea stacks, abundant driftwood, and tide pools (check tide charts for optimal viewing). This detour adds about 1.5-2 hours to your overall itinerary but offers a taste of Olympic’s wild Pacific coast.
- Evening (4:00 PM onwards)
Begin your drive out of Olympic National Park, reflecting on the incredible diversity of mountains, lakes, and rainforests you’ve experienced. Depending on your onward journey, you can head south towards Aberdeen/Olympia/Seattle or north towards Port Angeles/Seattle.
- Dinner: Plan for dinner outside the park as you make your way to your next destination.
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Have breakfast in Forks. Drive south on US-101 and then turn east onto Upper Hoh Road (approx. 1 hour from Forks) to reach the iconic Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best examples of temperate rainforest in the world.
6-Day Olympic Grand Tour: Coast, Hot Springs & All Ecosystems
An immersive journey through all major ecosystems of the park, including the rugged Pacific coastline, a relaxing stop at Sol Duc Hot Springs, and two distinct rainforest experiences.
-
Day 1: High Peaks & Lake Crescent’s Embrace
- Morning (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Begin your Olympic Grand Tour by driving from the Seattle area to Port Angeles (approx. 2.5 - 3 hours). Your first stop is the Olympic National Park Visitor Center (3002 Mount Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362) to pick up maps and information. Purchase your Olympic National Park Pass ($30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days). Then, embark on the scenic 17-mile drive up to Hurricane Ridge, gaining over 5,000 feet in elevation. Spend time at the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center admiring panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Enjoy a short, easy hike like the paved “High Ridge Trail” (1.5 miles roundtrip, moderate elevation gain, 1 hour) or the “Cirque Rim Trail” (1 mile roundtrip, paved, accessible, 45 mins).
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at Hurricane Ridge with a view (a great budget-saver!). Continue exploring other short trails or simply soak in the subalpine splendor. Keep an eye out for deer and marmots. Around 3:30 PM, begin your descent from Hurricane Ridge. Drive west towards Lake Crescent (approx. 45 minutes from Port Angeles). Check into your accommodation near Lake Crescent or continue towards Forks.
- Evening (5:30 PM onwards)
Dine at Lake Crescent Lodge (reservations highly recommended, expect a higher price point ~ $30-50 per person) for a classic PNW meal with stunning lake views, or head to Port Angeles for more budget-friendly options like Kokopelli Grill (Southwestern fusion) or Next Door Gastropub.
- Accommodation Suggestion: Lake Crescent Lodge (splurge
$250-300), Log Cabin Resort ($180-250), or budget-friendly motels in Port Angeles ($150-200). - Estimated Costs: Park Pass: $30. Gas: ~$30-40. Lunch: $20 (packed). Dinner: $60-100. Accommodation: $180-300.
- Accommodation Suggestion: Lake Crescent Lodge (splurge
-
Day 2: Enchanting Lake & Soothing Springs
- Morning (8:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Start your day exploring Lake Crescent. Take a leisurely walk to Marymere Falls (1.8 miles roundtrip, easy, 1 hour), a beautiful waterfall accessible via a pleasant forest trail. Afterwards, enjoy the serene beauty of the lake. Consider renting a kayak or canoe from Lake Crescent Lodge (seasonal, ~$25-35/hour) if time and budget allow, or simply relax by the shore.
- Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:30 PM) Have a packed lunch by the lake. Around 1:30 PM, drive to Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort (approx. 45 minutes from Lake Crescent). Spend 2-3 hours soaking in the mineral hot springs pools ($17 per adult for day use). This is a truly relaxing experience amidst the lush forest. Afterwards, take the scenic 0.8-mile trail from the resort to Sol Duc Falls (1.6 miles roundtrip, easy, 1 hour), a magnificent multi-tiered waterfall.
- Evening (5:30 PM onwards)
Dine at the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort dining room (casual, ~$25-40 per person) or pack dinner to enjoy at your accommodation. Drive west to Forks (approx. 45 minutes) for your overnight stay, positioning you well for the coast and Hoh Rainforest.
- Accommodation Suggestion: The Forks Motel, Olympic Suites Inn, or Miller Tree Inn (B&B, slightly higher) (~$160-220).
- Estimated Costs: Sol Duc Hot Springs: $34 (2 people). Gas: ~$20. Lunch: $20 (packed). Dinner: $50-80. Accommodation: $160-220.
-
Day 3: Wild Pacific Shores & Tidepool Wonders
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) From Forks, drive to Rialto Beach (approx. 20 minutes), one of the park’s most iconic coastal areas. Explore the dramatic driftwood-strewn shoreline and search for tide pools (check tide charts beforehand for low tide times) around the “Hole-in-the-Wall” formation (1.5 miles north from the parking lot, 3 miles roundtrip, moderate due to walking on rocks/sand, 2-3 hours). Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a packed lunch on the beach. Afterwards, drive south along Highway 101 towards Ruby Beach (approx. 1 hour from Rialto Beach). Ruby Beach is known for its sea stacks, driftwood, and dramatic sunsets. It’s a short, easy walk down to the beach. Spend time exploring the unique rock formations and coastal ecosystem.
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards)
Head back to Forks (approx. 45 minutes from Ruby Beach). Dine at one of Forks’ local eateries like Forks Outfitters Deli (casual, good for takeout) or Pacific Pizza. Alternatively, pick up groceries and cook at your accommodation if it has kitchen facilities.
- Accommodation Suggestion: The Forks Motel, Olympic Suites Inn (~$160-220).
- Estimated Costs: Gas: ~$25. Lunch: $20 (packed). Dinner: $40-70. Accommodation: $160-220.
-
Day 4: The Mossy Realm of Hoh Rainforest
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Today, immerse yourselves in the iconic Hoh Rainforest. Drive from Forks to the Hoh Visitor Center (approx. 1 hour). Begin your exploration with the Hall of Mosses Trail (0.8-mile loop, easy, 45 minutes), a magical walk through ancient Sitka spruce and western hemlock draped in vibrant green mosses and ferns. Follow this with the Spruce Nature Trail (1.2-mile loop, easy, 1 hour), which takes you along the Hoh River and deeper into the lush forest.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Have a picnic lunch by the Hoh River. For a longer hike, consider venturing onto the Hoh River Trail, which extends for miles into the wilderness. Hike as far as comfortable (e.g., 2-3 miles out and back, 2-3 hours) to truly experience the depth of the rainforest. This trail offers opportunities to spot Roosevelt elk.
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards)
Drive back to Forks (approx. 1 hour). Enjoy dinner at a local establishment, or grab ingredients from Forks Outfitters for a simple meal. Consider stopping for groceries for tomorrow’s picnic as well.
- Accommodation Suggestion: The Forks Motel, Olympic Suites Inn (~$160-220).
- Estimated Costs: Gas: ~$25. Lunch: $20 (packed). Dinner: $40-70. Accommodation: $160-220.
-
Day 5: Southern Rainforest & Lake Serenity
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Check out of your Forks accommodation and drive south on US-101 towards the Quinault Rainforest (approx. 1.5 - 2 hours from Forks). This southern part of the park offers a distinct rainforest experience. Start with the scenic Lake Quinault Loop Drive (30 miles, allow 1.5-2 hours driving time, plus stops). Stop at the Quinault Rain Forest Ranger Station for trail information. Hike the Quinault Rain Forest Nature Trail (0.5-mile loop, easy, 30 mins) and the Kestner Homestead Trail (1.3-mile loop, easy, 1 hour), featuring historic buildings and a giant cedar.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the Quinault landscape. Visit the historic Lake Quinault Lodge, a beautiful rustic lodge built in 1926 (check out the lobby and gift shop). Consider a short walk on the trails directly accessible from the lodge. If time permits, make a quick stop at Kalaloch Beach (approx. 30 minutes north of Quinault) to see the famous “Tree of Life.”
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards)
Dine at the Roosevelt Dining Room at Lake Quinault Lodge (reservations recommended, ~ $35-60 per person for a memorable final dinner) or choose more casual options in the nearby town of Amanda Park.
- Accommodation Suggestion: Lake Quinault Lodge (splurge,
$250-350), or Lake Quinault Inn / motels in Amanda Park ($150-200). - Estimated Costs: Gas: ~$30. Lunch: $20 (packed). Dinner: $70-120. Accommodation: $150-350.
- Accommodation Suggestion: Lake Quinault Lodge (splurge,
-
Day 6: Coastal Farewell & Homeward Bound
- Morning (8:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Enjoy a final breakfast at your accommodation or grab a quick bite. Take one last scenic drive around Lake Quinault, or if you stayed at Kalaloch, enjoy a final morning walk on the beach. Begin your journey eastward on US-101. The drive along the Hood Canal offers stunning waterside views. Consider a brief stop at Lake Cushman or the Staircase Rapids Loop Trail (in the Staircase area of the park, if time and energy allow - a 2.1-mile loop, easy to moderate, 1.5 hours, approx. 1-hour detour from US-101 near Hoodsport).
- Afternoon (12:30 PM - 4:00 PM) Continue your drive back towards Olympia and the Seattle area (total drive from Quinault to Seattle is approx. 3.5 - 4 hours without significant stops). Stop for lunch in a charming Hood Canal town like Hoodsport (e.g., Hoodsport Winery for a tasting and snacks, or Hoodsport Pizza).
- Evening (4:00 PM onwards)
Arrive back in the Seattle area, concluding your unforgettable Olympic Grand Tour.
- Estimated Costs: Gas: ~$40-50. Breakfast: $30-50. Lunch: $40-60. Total for the day: $110-160.
Total Estimated Budget (for 2 people): $1819 - $2594
- Accommodation: $900 - $1410
- Food: $370 - $600 (mix of packed lunches/some restaurant dinners)
- Gas: $170 - $200
- Park Pass: $30
- Activities (Sol Duc): $34
- Buffer/Misc: ~$100-150
This itinerary keeps you within the $1,800 - $2,500 budget for 2 people, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience of Olympic National Park’s diverse ecosystems. Remember to make accommodation reservations well in advance, especially during peak season!
Explore Neighboring Areas
Ready to visit Discover Olympic National Park - A Wilderness Tapestry of Mountains, Forests, and Coast?
Let AI build your perfect itinerary in seconds.