Olympic National Park

There are few places on Earth where snow-dusted peaks, emerald rainforests, and wild Pacific shores coexist — but Olympic National Park in Washington is one of them. Here, nature speaks in many languages: the hush of mist in the Hoh Rain Forest, the roar of waves at Rialto Beach, and the crisp wind that sweeps over Hurricane Ridge. For couples, families, solo adventurers, and dreamers alike, this park is a reminder of how wild and beautiful the world can be.

Established in 1938, Olympic National Park was created to preserve the unique ecosystems of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. It is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, celebrated for its extraordinary biodiversity and unspoiled wilderness. Spanning nearly 1 million acres (4,000 sq km), the park encompasses glacier-capped mountains, temperate rainforests, and over 70 miles of rugged coastline, making it one of the most diverse natural areas in North America.

• Established: 1938
• Location: Washington State, USA
• UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site & International Biosphere Reserve
• Size: Nearly 1 million acres (4,000 sq km)
• Unique Feature: Contains three distinct ecosystems — mountains, rainforest, and coastline

Best Time to Visit Olympic National Park

• Ideal Seasons: May to September for warm weather and accessible hiking trails
• Winter Magic: November to February for snow-covered peaks and peaceful solitude
• Best Time of Day: Early morning for calm scenery; sunset for golden reflections over the Pacific
• Special Events: Annual Rain Shadow Running Festival and interpretive ranger programs in summer

Things to See / Key Attractions Near Olympic National Park

• Hoh Rain Forest: A mystical landscape of moss-covered trees and gentle streams
• Hurricane Ridge: Offers sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains and alpine meadows
• Rialto Beach: Known for its sea stacks, driftwood, and dramatic ocean waves
• Lake Crescent: A glacially carved lake perfect for kayaking or lakeside relaxation
• Sol Duc Hot Springs: Natural hot mineral pools surrounded by lush forest
• Hidden Gem: Ruby Beach — a photographer’s paradise with crimson-tinted sand and surreal sunsets

How to Reach Olympic National Park

• Nearest Airport: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (about 2.5 hours away)
• By Car: Accessible via U.S. Highway 101, which loops around the Olympic Peninsula
• Public Transport: Limited bus services from Port Angeles and nearby towns
• Parking: Available at major trailheads and visitor centres
• Approximate Travel Time: 2.5 hours from Seattle, 3.5 hours from Portland

Nearby Attractions & Where to Eat Near Olympic National Park

• Nearby Attractions:
• Cape Flattery: The northwesternmost point in the continental U.S., with breathtaking ocean cliffs
• Port Angeles: A charming coastal town with museums, shops, and waterfront views
• Dungeness Spit: One of the world’s longest natural sand spits, ideal for birdwatching and beach walks
• Where to Eat:
• Next Door Gastropub (Port Angeles): Casual dining with Pacific Northwest flavours and craft beers
• Lake Crescent Lodge Dining Room: Serves locally inspired dishes with views of the crystal-clear lake