Olympic National Park is a unique and expansive national park located in Washington state. Established in 1938 and encompassing nearly a million acres, the park is renowned for its remarkable ecological diversity, protecting glacier-capped mountains, ancient temperate rain forests, and a wild Pacific coastline. The park offers a wide range of recreational activities, scenic beauty, and opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems and cultural history.
Overview
Olympic National Park is characterized by its incredible range of precipitation and elevation, which contributes to its diverse ecosystems. The park protects vast wilderness areas, thousands of years of human history, and several distinct ecological zones, including glacier-capped peaks, old-growth temperate rain forests, and over 70 miles of rugged coastline .
Plan Your Visit
The park is open 24 hours a day, year-round, although some roads, campgrounds, and facilities operate seasonally. Visitors are encouraged to check current conditions, road statuses, and weather forecasts before their trip as the park's weather is variable and can differ significantly across regions .
Entrance Fees
Entrance fees are $30 for private vehicles, $25 for motorcycles, and $15 for individuals on foot or bicycle. These fees are valid for seven consecutive days. Various passes, including annual, military, senior, and access passes, are accepted. Additional fees apply for camping, wilderness permits, and commercial use .
Visitor Centers
The main visitor center is located at 3002 Mount Angeles Road, Port Angeles, WA 98362. Visitors can obtain information, maps, orientation, and trip planning assistance there. Additional ranger stations and visitor centers are located throughout the park to serve different regions .
Access and Transportation
Key access points include Port Angeles, Hurricane Ridge, and the park's coastal and forested regions. Roads such as Hurricane Ridge Road and the Sol Duc Scenic Byway provide access to iconic sights and trailheads. It's important to verify road openings, especially in winter or after storms .
Hiking and Camping
Olympic National Park offers numerous hiking trails ranging from short, accessible walks to challenging backcountry routes. Popular hikes include those in Hurricane Ridge, the Hoh Rain Forest, and along the coastal tide pools. Wilderness camping requires a permit, and there are designated sites throughout the park's vast backcountry .
Ecosystems and Wildlife
The park encompasses multiple ecosystems:
- Mountains: Home to glacier-capped peaks and alpine meadows.
- Rain Forests: The Hoh and Quinault rain forests feature lush vegetation and unique wildlife.
- Coastline: Wild beaches with tide pools and marine life.
Wildlife includes species such as black bears, Roosevelt elk, mountain goats, and numerous bird species. The park also engages in ecological restoration projects, including efforts related to the Elwha River dam removal .
Ranger Programs and Safety
Ranger-led programs are offered to educate visitors about the park’s ecosystems, history, and safe outdoor practices. Tide and safety information is critical for those exploring the coastal areas due to rapidly changing tides. Pet owners must follow park regulations to ensure safety and enjoyment for all visitors .
Additional Resources
- Olympic National Park - NPS Official Site
- Plan Your Visit - Olympic National Park
- Current Conditions & Alerts
- Fees & Passes
- Maps - Olympic National Park
- Wilderness Trip Planner
- Olympic National Park Visitor Center
- Hiking & Backpacking
- Elwha Ecosystem Restoration
- Ranger-Led Programs
- Tides & Your Safety
- Bringing Pets to Olympic National Park
- Contact Us
The park's main contact number is (360) 565-3130, and the road and weather hotline is (360) 565-3131. The park’s mailing address is 600 East Park Avenue, Port Angeles, WA 98362 .
Discover the dazzling and dynamic wonder of Olympic National Park, where diverse landscapes and rich history await your exploration!
Last updated: Sat Jun 7, 2025
