Last Updated
Located on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State, Olympic National Park is home to breathtaking scenery and several memorable locations. Here are the top 10 things you won’t want to miss on your next trip to this national park.
1. Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Here’s a great option for both lodging or for a day trip! If you’re looking for a place to stay in Olympic National Park, or you’re not feeling like camping, Sol Duc Resort offers a variety of different accommodations. It is also home to Sol Duc springs, a set of luxurious and relaxing hot springs. The springs are open to resort guests as well as offering day passes.
2. Ruby Beach
Enjoy a walk along this stunning beach! With a stop at Ruby Beach, you can look forward to taking in the beautiful scenery, including unique rock formations, driftwood, and possibly local wildlife. Ruby Beach – along with some of the other beaches in Olympic National Park – are also popular spots for tide-pooling.
3. The Hoh Rainforest
No list talking about things to do in Olympic National Park would be complete without mentioning the Hoh Rainforest! The largest temperate rainforest in the United States, this is a truly iconic and memorable stop. You will be able to traverse the rainforest on a number of trails, including the Hall of Mosses. You may also be able to catch a glimpse of some of the unique wildlife in the area, such as giant snails.
4. Olympic Hot Springs
If you’re looking for a truly natural hot spring experience, consider heading out to Olympic Hot Springs. These unmaintained springs are tucked away in the national park. Because they are more secluded, a 20-mile roundtrip hike is needed to reach them. This makes them great for camping – allowing the miles to be split over a few days – or a biking trip. If you do check them out, be sure to bring plenty of water on your trip, and let someone know of your travel plans.
5. The Kalaloch Tree of Life
Located at Kalaloch Beach, the Kalaloch Tree of life is a sprawling tree that hangs precariously off the area's cliffs. With its vast exposed root system, it is a great stop for sightseeing and pictures. It’s also nearby several lodging options, including the Kalaloch campground.
6. Lake Crescent
This serene lake is a great spot for all sorts of outdoor activities. In addition to being nearby several hiking trails, the lake is also a popular location for various water activities such as kayaking and sailing. If you’re looking to stay nearby, there are a few options for that as well. Consider checking out Fairholme campground (open until September 27) if you’re looking for a true outdoors experience. Or try staying at Lake Crescent Lodge (open until January 3rd, 2022) if more developed accommodations are closer to your interests.
7. Hurricane Ridge
One of the park’s most popular year-round destinations, Hurricane Ridge features breathtaking views. The area is well-loved for hiking in the warmer months. It is also a great choice for snow sports – such as skiing and snowboarding – during the colder months.
8. Mount Olympus
The tallest of the Olympic mountains and a crown jewel of Olympic National Park, this mountain lives up to its godly name. The most popular way to experience the mountain is to view it from a nearby hiking trail or viewing area. For more experienced outdoors people, summiting the mountain is also a possibility. The glacial tread and potential for harsh weather make this inadvisable for inexperienced climbers, however.
9. Sol Duc Falls
Take in a stunning waterfall with a visit to Sol Duc Falls. Located near some other notable attractions such as Sol Duc Springs and Sol Duc Resort, you can view the falls via Sol Duc Falls Trail. This 1.6-mile roundtrip trail is short and sweet, and more than worth it.
10. Rialto Beach
Here’s another great option if you’re looking to enjoy a beautiful Pacific Northwest Beach! Rialto Beach is known for its beautiful scenery, as well as being near some great tidepool spots. One popular spot is Hole-In-The-Wall, a unique rock formation that is approximately 1.5 miles down the beach from the Rialto Beach trailhead.
Read More:
Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19
10 Lesser-Known Places To Visit In The Pacific Northwest
Top 7 Hot Springs Around The Pacific Northwest
↓ Elevate Your Travel↓
Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!
✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path's latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.