Surrounded on three sides by the Puget Sound, the Olympic Peninsula is just a few hours away from Seattle but feels like an entirely different corner of the world. The Olympic National Park which covers the peninsula is made of a rich rainforest with rivers flowing through as well as incredible waterfalls, mountains and beaches.
When you get there, the 800 kilometre network of hiking trails are perfect for anyone seeking a casual stroll to hardened walking enthusiasts, whether you’re here for a few hours or several days.
Mount Olympus stands tall and proud at the heart of the park, rising to nearly 2,500 metres above sea level. While only serious climbers should attempt to ascend all the way to the summit, there are plenty of trails for less advanced visitors who simply want to enjoy the scenery. The Hoh River Trail for instance gives you the chance to see the mountain at its finest as well as explore the rainforest and get close to its old trees which have stood for hundreds of years.
Enjoy some alpine and Nordic skiing over at Hurricane Ridge, where in the summer you’ll be rewarded with incredible views. On the south-west side of the park you can enjoy a hike looking out to the ocean from the stunning Ruby Beach.
Elsewhere on the peninsula, head for Lake Quinault where you can visit the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort as well as stop off at the visitor centres at the Hoh Rainforest and Hurricane Ridge. Another cosy stop is Port Angeles just north of Olympic National Park. You can even board the ferry from there across the Strait of Juan de Franca and head to Victoria on Vancouver Island, but be sure to bring your passport.
For a genuine outdoor experience, stay over in the park at one of its camping spaces, or alternatively there are lodgings available around Forks or Quinault nearby. Bear in mind that accommodation will be simple, and that five-star luxury is not readily available around the national park.
Between two and three hours from Seattle by car, the Olympic National Park is accessible for visitors to the city who head out here in droves to discover more of the region’s charms.
