OLYMPIC
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 922,650 ACRES

EST. 06 29 1938

WASHINGTON

Planning a Trip to
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. With dramatic mountain peaks, lush temperate rainforests, and rugged Pacific coastline, Olympic National Park offers unparalleled opportunities to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. From miles of hiking trails to camping and backpacking, visitors can experience the beauty of the park's diverse ecosystems. The park also features a variety of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and bald eagles. With so much to explore and discover, Olympic National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

“Keep close to Nature’s heart… and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.”
- Theodore Roosevelt

“The nation behaves well if it treats the natural resources as assets which it must turn over to the next generation increased and not impaired in value.”
- Gifford Pinchot

"The wilderness holds answers to questions we haven't yet learned how to ask." - Nancy Newhall

"The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness." - John Muir

BEST TIME TO GO

The best time to visit Olympic National Park is from late spring to early fall. During this time, visitors can take advantage of the long days, mild temperatures, and peak wildflower season. If you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the park's wildlife, spring is the best time to go. Hiking and backpacking is best done during the summer months when the trails are free of snow and the temperatures are mild. During autumn, visitors can explore the park's lush forests and enjoy the vibrant fall foliage. For those who enjoy winter activities, Olympic National Park offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snow camping. No matter when you visit, Olympic National Park is sure to provide a unique and unforgettable experience.

The best time to visit Olympic National Park is between May and October. During this time, the weather is mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. Spring is also a great time to visit, as the park is in full bloom and the wildlife is active. Summer is the busiest season at the park, so be sure to plan ahead and make reservations in advance. Fall is a great time to explore the stunning autumn foliage and catch glimpses of the park's wildlife. Winter is the least popular season to visit, but it is still a great time to explore the park's snow-covered landscapes. No matter what time of year you choose to visit, Olympic National Park is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

OVERVIEW

Olympic National Park is located in the state of Washington, USA and is one of the most visited parks in the country. It covers over 922,000 acres and has a wide variety of landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, forests, and coastline. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, black bears, mountain goats, and bald eagles. It also contains over 2,000 miles of trails, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to explore the park. Additionally, the park has multiple peaks over 7,000 feet in elevation, making it a popular destination for hikers and climbers. Olympic National Park is a great place to get away from it all and explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

WEATHER

Olympic National Park offers a variety of weather conditions year-round. In the summer months, temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-70s, while in the winter months, temperatures range from the mid-30s to low-40s. Rain is common throughout the year, with the wettest months being October through April. This wet weather can make visiting the park in the winter months a challenge, but it is also responsible for the lush and vibrant scenery that Olympic National Park is known for. The weather at Olympic National Park can also have an impact on the activities available to visitors, so it is important to plan accordingly.

Olympic National Park is home to a diverse array of ecosystems, ranging from temperate rainforests to alpine meadows. Weather is a major factor that influences the health and diversity of these ecosystems. The park experiences a wide range of temperatures, from lows of about 25°F to highs of around 80°F. The temperate rainforest areas of the park receive around 12 feet of rain per year, while the alpine meadows receive much less. This range of temperatures and precipitation levels is critical to maintaining the unique and varied ecosystems of the park.

GEAR

Going to Olympic National Park for a week? Here are the top 10 best pieces of gear to bring to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip: 1. Waterproof hiking boots: to help you navigate the terrain safely. 2. A tent: to keep you dry and warm during the night. 3. A warm sleeping bag: to keep you comfortable during the colder nights. 4. A daypack: to store all your essentials while you explore. 5. A rain jacket: to keep you dry during unpredictable weather. 6. A first-aid kit: to be prepared for any minor injuries. 7. A map and compass: to help you find your way around the park. 8. A flashlight: to help you explore the night sky. 9. Sunglasses and sunscreen: to protect you from the sun. 10. Insect repellent: to help keep the bugs away.

If you're planning to spend a week at Olympic National Park, you'll need the right gear to make the most of your trip. Here are the top 10 best extreme gear to bring for a successful week-long stay: 1) Hiking boots: for comfortable and safe hiking; 2) Waterproof jacket: to keep you dry in the rain; 3) Tent: for a comfortable, dry, and secure night's sleep; 4) Headlamp: for exploring the park at night; 5) Sleeping bag: to keep you warm and comfortable; 6) First aid kit: to be prepared for any minor injuries; 7) Backpack: to carry all your gear; 8) Trekking poles: to help you balance on uneven terrain; 9) Navigation equipment: to help you find your way around the park; 10) Sunscreen: to protect your skin from the sun. With this gear, you'll be well prepared to explore the wonders of Olympic National Park.

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HISTORY

Olympic National Park is a stunningly beautiful location located in the state of Washington. Established in 1938, it is one of the oldest national parks in the United States. It is home to a variety of diverse ecosystems, including alpine meadows, temperate rain forests, and wild coastlines. Olympic National Park is also home to a variety of species, including black bears, elk, bald eagles, and marmots. Fun fact: the park was designated an International Biosphere Reserve in 1976 by UNESCO. Additionally, the park is home to the largest temperate rain forest in the United States. It is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Olympic National Park is home to many legendary stories. One of the most famous is the story of the "Kwis Kwis," a small, mischievous creature that lives in the park's forests. The Kwis Kwis is said to make its home in the hollows of old-growth trees and enjoys playing pranks on unsuspecting hikers. Another legend tells of a mysterious lake that appears and disappears depending on the season. Locals believe that the lake is home to a family of mermaids who come to the surface to play and sing in the moonlight. Finally, there is the tale of the "Sasquatch," a large, hairy creature that is said to roam the Olympic National Park's forests. Whether these stories are true or not, they add to the park's unique and mysterious atmosphere.

RECOMMENDED

Olympic National Park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are the top 10 recommended things to do in the park: 1. Hike to the summit of Mount Olympus for breathtaking views of the surrounding area. 2. Explore the rainforest and admire the lush greenery of the Hoh Rainforest.3. Go backpacking and camping in the Sol Duc Valley and enjoy the scenic beauty. 4. Visit the beautiful beaches along the Pacific Coast and spot wildlife. 5. Take a boat tour of the pristine Lake Crescent and take in the stunning views. 6. Go kayaking or canoeing in the rivers and lakes in the park. 7. Check out the stunning waterfalls at the Madison Creek Falls. 8. Take a guided tour of the Elwha Valley and explore the wildlife. 9. Stop by the Olympic Hot Springs and soak in the healing waters. 10. Go wildlife watching and spot the diverse wildlife of the park.

Olympic National Park offers a wide range of extreme activities like backpacking, mountaineering, and whitewater rafting. Here are the top 10 things for extreme activities recommended to do in Olympic National Park:

1. Backpacking – explore the backcountry of the park and take in the breathtaking views.

2. Mountaineering – ascend the peaks of the park and experience the thrill of climbing.

3. Whitewater Rafting – take on the rapids of the rivers and enjoy the exhilaration of the ride.

4. Kayaking – paddle around the lakes and explore the nooks and crannies of the shoreline.

5. Rock Climbing – challenge yourself on the cliffs and outcrops of the park.

6. Hiking – discover the trails and explore the wilds of the park.

7. Skiing – take on the slopes and glide across the powdery snow.

8. Mountain Biking – explore the trails and experience the thrill of the ride.

9. Fishing – cast your lines and catch the fish of the rivers.

10. Camping – pitch a tent and sleep under the stars of the night sky.

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PLAN YOUR VISIT

1. Comfortable and supportive hiking boots: Make sure to bring a pair of boots that fit correctly and provide good grip and ankle support. 2. Water bottle: Staying hydrated is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike, so don’t forget to bring a refillable water bottle. 3. Sunscreen and sunglasses: The sun can be intense in the Olympic National Park, so make sure to bring appropriate sun protection. 4. Map and compass: A good map and compass will help you navigate the trails and keep you on track. 5. Snacks: Bring some snacks along to keep your energy up during your hike. 6. Rain gear: A waterproof jacket and pants can come in handy in the unpredictable Northwest weather. 7. Hat and gloves: Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly in the Olympic National Park, so bring a hat and gloves just in case. 8. First-aid kit: Have a first-aid kit on hand with basic supplies to address minor injuries. 9. Flashlight: If you plan to do any night hiking, don’t forget a flashlight to light your way. 10. Binoculars: Bring a pair of

Olympic National Park is home to some of the most beautiful hikes in the world. Here are the top 10 best hikes to do at Olympic National Park, ranked from easiest to most difficult:
1. Hurricane Hill Trail – Easy
2. Sol Duc Falls Trail – Easy
3. Lake Ozette Loop – Moderate
4. Mount Ellinor Trail – Moderate
5. Royal Basin Trail – Difficult
6. Seven Lakes Basin Trail – Difficult
7. Mount Angeles Trail – Difficult
8. Grand Ridge Trail – Difficult
9. High Divide Loop – Very Difficult
10. Olympic Coast Trail – Very Difficult
No matter your skill level, you're sure to find a great hike to explore in Olympic National Park.

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# OF VISITORS/MONTH

Olympic National Park attracts millions of visitors each year. The average number of visitors per month is around 1.2 million. The months of July and August are the busiest, with over 1.5 million visitors each month. In the winter months of December through February, the park sees around 500,000 visitors. The spring and fall months of March through June and September through November bring in between 800,000 and 1.1 million visitors per month. Regardless of the time of year, Olympic National Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.