Best Things To Do In Olympic National Park That Live Up To The Hype

Looking for the best things to do in Olympic National Park? Well, congratulations, you’ve officially stumbled upon one of the most jaw-droppingly cool places on the planet. This park is basically nature’s way of showing off, with its rainforests, rugged coastlines, and mountains that look like they were handcrafted by a meticulous perfectionist.

From adventures that’ll leave you breathless (in a good way) to peaceful moments that make you question why you live anywhere else, this place has it all. It’s the kind of spot where you can pack a week with activities and still leave with a list of things you “just have to come back for.”

Trust me, by the time you see what you can do on a visit, you’re going to want sneakers laced, snacks packed, and a free calendar.

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Best Things To Do In Olympic National Park

If you’re ready for a whirlwind of excitement, here’s your guide to what to do in Olympic National Park that you absolutely can’t miss.

Hike The Hurricane Hill Trail (Hurricane Hill Via Hurricane Ridge)

Looking for a hike that serves up jaw-dropping views without requiring a talent scout to pluck you from the couch? Hurricane Hill is your golden ticket.

This 3.4-mile round-trip jaunt is the perfect balance of effort and payoff – just challenging enough to make you feel like an adventurer, but not so intense that you’ll need a Sherpa. The trail’s reward? Panoramic views that might just ruin you for every other hike.

Think mountains rolling endlessly and, on a clear day, the Strait of Juan de Fuca stretching all the way to Canada. Yes, Canada.

Pro tip: bring binoculars or your inner eagle eye because spotting such distant beauty is half the magic. Trust me, this trail is the scenic mic drop of Olympic National Park.

Explore Hoh Rain Forest

Stepping into the Hoh Rain Forest is like entering nature’s overachiever zone. Here, plants grow on top of other plants, draped in moss so thick it’s a wonder they don’t topple under the weight of their own ambition.

With up to 14 feet of rain per year (yes, feet… bring a decent raincoat unless you’re into impromptu soaking sessions), this place takes “lush” to a whole new level.

And the Hall of Mosses Trail is your go-to for a stroll (and one of the best things to do at Olympic National Park, IMO) where trees look like something out of a fever dream – if trees had dreams.

Or try the Spruce Nature Trail, which winds through scenery so surreal it might leave you questioning if you’re in a forest or an elaborate green-themed art installation. But it’s real, and it’s green, wet, and gloriously wonderful.

Visit Sol Duc Falls

If chasing waterfalls isn’t already on your to-do list, Sol Duc Falls is here to change your mind – with flair. This iconic cascade is so extra, it can’t settle for just one fall; nope, it splits into three, occasionally four, plunges depending on how generous the rain’s been feeling lately.

And getting there? A lovely 1.8-mile trail that’s easy enough to stroll but still scenic enough to feel like you’re accomplishing something.

Honestly, the hardest part might be convincing yourself to leave once you get there, as the misty spray and roaring soundtrack are oddly hypnotic. Just don’t forget to bring some sustenance – nothing says “I conquered nature” like enjoying a granola bar while judging how much better this looks compared to your showerhead’s sad excuse for a water feature.

If you love waterfalls like John does, Sol Duc is not the only option. There are plenty to keep you entertained and impressed within the boundary of the park and the nearby Olympic National Forest.

Drive Hurricane Ridge Road

This Olympic National Park scenic drive sweeps you up over 5,200 feet, delivering the kind of views that make you wonder if you packed enough awe for the day. One moment, you’re winding through dense forest, and the next, bam – glaciers and ocean sharing the same stage like it’s no big deal.

You might even spot a marmot casually judging your driving skills from the roadside. Just remember to take your time. The only rush should be the one you feel when that perfect panorama comes into view.

And remember, the higher you climb, the closer you are to asking, “Is it legal for a place to look this good?”

Walk On Ruby Beach

There’s nothing quite like wandering along Ruby Beach, where the stunning sea stacks do their best to outshine the ocean (and they’re succeeding). These striking rock formations stand tall, showing off like they’ve been practicing for this moment all year.

Toss in some oversized driftwood scattered along the shore like someone’s attempt at modern art, and suddenly, you’re in a gallery where the admission price is just your gas money.

And those tide pools? Tiny alien worlds filled with vibrant aquatic life – watch your step, though, because barnacles don’t play nice.

The beach gets its name from the occasional reddish glint in the sand, thanks to little garnet fragments. Fancy, right?

Soak In Sol Duc Hot Springs

Tired muscles, meet your new best friend – Olympic National Park hot springs. These mineral-rich, naturally heated pools are nature’s way of giving you a full-body “you’ve earned it” moment.

Back in the early 1900s, folks flocked here for a little R&R, and who can blame them? Even then, people knew a steaming soak beats stress-eating your weight in donuts. Slip into the soothing water, and it feels like every ounce of tension decides to peace out.

Plus, the setting? Unfairly gorgeous. You’re surrounded by lush forest, breathing in crisp mountain air – it’s like the hot springs said, “Why settle for just relaxation when you can have drama and ambiance, too?”

While the Sol Duc Hot Springs resort is technically privately owned and not part of the park, you can find “natural” hot spring pools in the area that are part of the park.

Paddle Lake Crescent

Stepping onto the crystal-clear waters of Lake Crescent is like entering a postcard (except this one comes with paddles and a workout). Renting a kayak or canoe, you’ll quickly notice the water is so clear it feels borderline unfair to every other lake out there.

This clarity? Turns out, it’s because algae doesn’t get much of a party here, thanks to the lake’s lack of nitrogen. Seems like science really knows how to keep things pristine.

Paddle out, and you’re surrounded by towering trees and mountains that will have your jaw dropping. Meanwhile, you’re out there channeling your inner explorer, gliding over water so pure it’s basically nature’s version of filtered.

It’s peaceful, it’s stunning… and yes, your arms will feel impressively used afterward.

Spot Roosevelt Elk

Roosevelt elk aren’t exactly the kind of creatures you casually bump into on a hike – unless your idea of casual includes a 1,000-pound forest king staring you down. These hefty, antlered showstoppers are unique to the Pacific Northwest, and honestly, they look like they own the place.

The best time to spot them is early morning or dusk in the lush Hoh or Quinault Valleys, when the mist clings to the trees, giving everything that “mystical wilderness” feeling that no CGI could replicate.

Just don’t expect them to care about your presence – they’ve got grazing, strutting, and general elk business to attend to. And if you’re lucky, you might see a whole herd moving gracefully through the valley, proving that yes, even these hefty animals can pull off a little grace.

Stargaze At Hurricane Ridge

You know what’s better than staying up late binge-watching the usual? Staring up at the sky from Hurricane Ridge, where the real stars put on a show… and it’s way better than anything scripted.

With some of the darkest skies around, this is your chance to spot the Milky Way stretching across the heavens. It’s the kind of celestial spectacle that makes you feel tiny in the best way possible.

And if you’re there during summer, keep an eye out for park rangers hosting telescope nights. They’ll help you see distant planets and stars that you can’t squint at solo.

Make sure you dress warm (it gets chilly up there) because even when the universe shows off, it’s not catering to your comfort.

Explore Tide Pools At Kalaloch’s Beach 4 Or Rialto Beach

When the tide pulls back its watery curtain, Kalaloch’s Beach 4 and Rialto Beach pull off the grand reveal of a hidden undersea metropolis.

Wandering through the exposed tide pools, you’ll find sea stars clinging to rocks like they’re starring in their own aquatic soap opera (drama unfortunately not included), anemones waving their tentacles in slow-motion sass, and crabs scuttling around like they’ve got deadlines.

These tide pools aren’t just random puddles; they’re part of a carefully protected coastal ecosystem, home to some creatures you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Turns out, it’s a front-row seat to the wild and weird Pacific Northwest underwater universe (and lucky you, no snorkel required). Just watch your step – those rocks are slimier than they look, and the local urchins aren’t exactly cuddle material.

Visit The Quinault Rain Forest

Hidden away among all the Olympic National Park trees, the Quinault Rain Forest feels like stepping into a fairy tale… minus the talking animals and questionable singing. Towering Douglas firs and western hemlocks create a ceiling so dense, you’ll wonder if sunlight even bothers showing up.

And don’t even get me started on the world’s largest Sitka spruce, clocking in at over 190 feet. That thing is taller than most buildings and probably older than your great-great-grandrelatives.

Walking through this lush green wonderland, you’ll spot moss-covered everything, ferns so vibrant they might offend your houseplants, and trails that seem to invite adventure. Come for the trees, stay for the awe (and maybe a few muddy boots).

Spot Wildflowers In The Alpine Meadows

Summer in Olympic National Park feels like stepping into a painter’s studio, where the artist decided to go all-in on wildflowers. Around Obstruction Point and Deer Park, the alpine meadows go full glam, bursting with lupine, paintbrush, and avalanche lilies competing for the spotlight.

These blooms aren’t just your everyday flowers either – many of the 1,400 plant species in the park are rare, local celebrities you can’t find anywhere else. It’s the floral equivalent of scoring front-row seats to an exclusive event.

You’re surrounded by a living, breathing rainbow that would make any color wheel jealous. Just remember, this show is best appreciated up close, not crushed underfoot – so keep your feet on the trail and your admiration plentiful.

Best Tour To Olympic National Park

Looking for the ultimate way to soak up the best sights in Olympic National Park without stressing over logistics? This all-inclusive, small-group day tour from Seattle has you covered. Who needs the headache of planning when you’re busy packing snacks?

Operated by a trusted local provider (translation: they actually know what they’re doing), the tour includes hotel pickup in Seattle, round-trip ferry rides across Puget Sound, and a guide who’s basically a walking nature encyclopedia.

Depending on the season and weather (nature likes to keep us on our toes after all), you could find yourself gawking at Lake Crescent’s glassy waters, hiking to the almost-too-perfect Marymere Falls, poking around tide pools at Salt Creek, or snapping photos of the jaw-dropping views at Hurricane Ridge.

With this day of rainforest-to-mountain magic, plus all meals, gear, and comfy transport sorted, all you have to do is show up ready to ooh and ahh. And with a 5-star rating and over 900 reviews… you just know it’s gonna be good.

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Bonus: Best Things To Do Near Olympic National Park

Now that you are done exploring the top things to do at Olympic National Park, let’s take a closer look at a few things you can do near the park while in the area.

Dungeness Spit And Wildlife Refuge

Feeling ambitious? Then take an adventure to Dungeness Spit, the overachiever of sand spits, stretching over five miles into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. And it’s not just a big heap of sand – it’s a protected wildlife refuge where you can trade crowds for crisp sea air and animal sightings.

Bald eagles might give you their best stoic glare from above, while harbor seals laze nearby as they’ve mastered the art of relaxation.

And if that’s not enough, there’s a historic lighthouse waiting for you at the end of this sandy runway. It’s the perfect spot to reward yourself for the hike with dramatic views… and maybe some questionable sea breeze selfies.

Cape Flattery

If you’re in the mood to stand at the edge of the continent, Cape Flattery is calling your name. This spot is actually the northwesternmost point of the contiguous U.S., so there will be plenty of bragging rights to be had.

It serves up jaw-dropping panoramas of the Pacific Ocean, where sea cliffs and sea stacks rise dramatically from the crashing waves, almost as if nature has a special effects budget. And on a clear day, sharpen your gaze – you might catch a glimpse of Tatoosh Island or the regal sight of gray whales casually migrating offshore.

All in all, it’s the kind of place where even the rocks feel like they’ve got charisma.

Forks

Forks, located in the lush greenery just outside the park border, is a town that proudly wears its fame on its flannel sleeves. Yes, it’s the quintessential stomping ground for brooding vampires and shirtless werewolves (fans of a certain glittery franchise, you know the drill), but Forks is more than just a place for supernatural teenage drama.

Once the heart of the timber industry, you can still catch whispers of its logging legacy amid its towering forests. And if that wasn’t enough, nearby coastal rainforests are on hand to remind you that nature here isn’t just a backdrop – it’s the main character.

It’s a quirky, rainy haven where history, Hollywood, and mossy trees collide.

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