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Olympic National Park

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Animal habitat
—°3
Olympic National Park (United States)

Weather…

Olympic National Park on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state is renowned for protecting three distinct ecosystems within its boundaries. Established on June 29, 1938, the park covers nearly 1,500 square miles, ranging from glaciated mountain peaks to rugged Pacific coastlines. The interior is dominated by the Olympic Mountains, with Mount Olympus reaching 7,965 feet. On the western slopes, the Hoh and Quinault Rain Forests represent some of the best-preserved temperate rainforests in the world, receiving over 12 feet of rain annually. The park's 73 miles of wilderness coastline feature dramatic sea stacks and massive drift logs, providing a stark contrast to the alpine meadows above. Olympic is home to several endemic species found nowhere else, such as the Olympic marmot, and serves as a major sanctuary for Roosevelt elk. As a UNESCO World Heritage site and an International Biosphere Reserve, it remains a vital ecological laboratory and a popular destination for hikers seeking its diverse and untamed landscapes.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C2235911141512841
Rain mm2861622241378663314386198292270

📋 Practical info

📅
Best season
Summer (June to September) is the best time for hiking in the mountains and rainforests of Olympic National Park. Winter (December to March) brings snow to higher elevations and is convenient for snowshoeing.
🌅
Best time of day
Early morning birds are most active, especially in the temperate rainforests. At dusk chances increase of seeing black-tailed deer and elk on the open meadows.
📜
Etiquette
Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging fragile vegetation. Do not feed wildlife and keep your distance - use a telephoto lens or binoculars for observation.
🎒
What to bring
Weatherproof clothing is essential as the park's weather can change rapidly. Rain protection, layered clothing and sturdy hiking boots with good tread are recommended for the diverse habitats.
🧭
Getting there
Olympic National Park is on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state, reachable by car from Seattle. The entrance to Hurricane Ridge is via a winding road; other areas may require a high-clearance vehicle.
🦌
What to expect
The dense canopy of the rainforests can make animals hard to spot - focus on movement and sounds. Take time to sit quietly in one spot; often animals will come closer on their own.

Geography

Coordinates
47.80200, -123.60400

Facts

  • Established on June 29, 1938, by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
  • Hoh Rain Forest receives over 140 inches of rain annually.
  • The park features 73 miles of undeveloped Pacific coastline.
  • Mount Olympus stands as the highest peak at 7,965 feet.
  • Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981.
  • Home to the largest wild herd of Roosevelt elk in the world.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Olympic MountainsOlympic Mountains12 km · NExplore →
Port AngelesPort Angeles27 km · NWExplore →
MetchosinMetchosin36 km · WExplore →
SookeSooke38 km · WExplore →
LangfordLangford41 km · WExplore →
Fisgard LighthouseFisgard Lighthouse42 km · NWExplore →
Royal BC MuseumRoyal BC Museum46 km · NWExplore →
SaanichSaanich48 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Olympic National Park (3)

Mount Meany🌿 nature

Mount Meany is a 6,695-foot peak in Olympic National Park.

Mount Noyes🌿 nature

Mount Noyes is a mountain in Olympic National Park.

Mount Seattle🌿 nature

A mountain named after Seattle in National Park.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a pass for all areas?
Yes, a park pass is required for access to all park areas.
When is it the rainiest?
Winter months are very wet, so bring waterproof clothing.
Are there beaches in the park?
Yes, the Pacific coast has wild, spectacular beaches for hiking.
What kind of shoes do I need?
Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential for hiking.
Are there accommodations in the park?
Yes, there are lodges and many campsites located in various ecosystems.
Olympic National Park: where is it located?
Olympic National Park is located in United States.
Olympic National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mount Meany, Mount Noyes, Mount Seattle.
Olympic National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Olympic National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Olympic National Park on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state is renowned for protecting three distinct ecosystems within its boundaries.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Seattle — Olympic National Park (United States)
Seattle
A coastal seaport city and tech hub in the Pacific Northwest, surrounded by water, mountains and forests.
Spokane — Olympic National Park (United States)
Spokane
A city in eastern Washington, known for its downtown waterfalls and outdoor recreation.
Bellingham — Olympic National Park (United States)
Bellingham
A vibrant city in northern Washington, known for outdoor adventures and proximity to the Canadian border.
Olympia — Olympic National Park (United States)
Olympia
The capital of Washington, at the southern end of Puget Sound.
Shoreline — Olympic National Park (United States)
Shoreline
A scenic coastal city north of Seattle, featuring lush parks and breathtaking views of the Puget Sound.
Coeur d'Alene — Olympic National Park (United States)
Coeur d'Alene
An elegant lakeside city in Idaho, known for its stunning water vistas, world-class golf courses, and premier outdoor resorts.
Bozeman — Olympic National Park (United States)
Bozeman
A dynamic university town and the primary gateway to Yellowstone National Park, surrounded by majestic mountains.
Edmonds — Olympic National Park (United States)
Edmonds
A charming port city on the Puget Sound, known for its art galleries, beautiful waterfront, and the ferry to Kingston.
University Place — Olympic National Park (United States)
University Place
A scenic community on the shores of Puget Sound, offering stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and world-class golf.
Des Moines — Olympic National Park (United States)
Des Moines
A charming waterfront city on the Puget Sound in Washington, known for its marina and Saltwater State Park.
Bainbridge Island — Olympic National Park (United States)
Bainbridge Island
A charming island community located just a short ferry ride away from downtown Seattle.
Port Angeles — Olympic National Park (United States)
Port Angeles
A charming port city in Washington State, the gateway to Olympic National Park on the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Anacortes — Olympic National Park (United States)
Anacortes
A charming port city on Fidalgo Island, known as the main gateway to the San Juan Islands and for its rich maritime heritage.
Aberdeen — Olympic National Park (United States)
Aberdeen
A historic port city at the mouth of the Chehalis River, known as the gateway to Washington's Pacific coast.
White Center — Olympic National Park (United States)
White Center
A vibrant, multicultural neighborhood south of Seattle, known for its diverse culinary scene and unconventional charm.