An Extensive Guide to Hiking Olympic National Park: Unveiling the Enchanting Rainforests, Majestic Peaks, and Pristine Coastlines

Rainforest Trails

Hoh Rainforest Trail

Nestled in the heart of Olympic National Park, the Hoh Rainforest Trail grants hikers an immersive experience in one of the world's most temperate rainforests. This moderate 1.8-mile loop trail meanders through a verdant wonderland of towering Douglas firs, majestic cedars, and an understory carpeted in lush ferns and mosses. Along the way, interpretive signs highlight the unique ecology of this pristine ecosystem, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna.

Marymere Falls Trail

For those seeking a more strenuous rainforest hike, the Marymere Falls Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding adventure. This 1.3-mile out-and-back trail ascends through a dense forest to the base of Marymere Falls, a mesmerizing 90-foot waterfall cascading down a sheer rock face. Along the trail, hikers encounter giant trees, babbling brooks, and an abundance of wildlife, making for an unforgettable wilderness experience.

Mountain Trails

Hurricane Ridge

Soaring above the Hoh Rainforest, Hurricane Ridge provides a breathtaking panorama of the Olympic Mountains. Accessible by vehicle, this iconic destination offers several hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. From easy interpretive nature walks to challenging day hikes, Hurricane Ridge is a haven for hikers eager to explore the alpine grandeur of Olympic National Park.

Hurricane Hill Trail

For those seeking a moderate hike with panoramic views, the Hurricane Hill Trail is an excellent choice. This 1.6-mile out-and-back trail climbs gradually to Hurricane Hill, offering breathtaking vistas of Mount Olympus, the highest peak in the Olympic Mountains, and the surrounding alpine landscapes. Along the way, hikers pass through beautiful meadows brimming with wildflowers and encounter wildlife such as deer, marmots, and pikas.

Staircase Rapids Loop Trail

Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the Staircase Rapids Loop Trail, a moderate 3.6-mile loop trail that follows the cascading Staircase Creek. The trail winds through a lush forest, offering glimpses of the Staircase Rapids, a series of mesmerizing waterfalls that plunge into a deep gorge. Along the way, hikers cross wooden bridges, ascend rocky outcrops, and encounter abundant wildlife, making for an exhilarating wilderness adventure.

Coastal Trails

Rialto Beach Trail

Experience the rugged beauty of the Olympic coast on the Rialto Beach Trail, a moderate 1-mile out-and-back trail that leads to the picturesque Rialto Beach. Along the way, hikers traverse sandy beaches, navigate rocky headlands, and encounter sea stacks, driftwood, and tide pools teeming with marine life. The trail's highlight is the iconic Hole-in-the-Wall Arch, a natural rock formation that frames stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Cape Flattery Trail

Embark on the Cape Flattery Trail, a moderate 1.6-mile out-and-back trail that culminates at the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States. This scenic trail winds along the coastline, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, sea stacks, and distant islands. Along the way, hikers encounter abundant seabirds, marine mammals, and wildflowers, making for a memorable coastal adventure.

Neah Bay Trail

For a longer coastal excursion, consider the Neah Bay Trail, a moderate 10-mile point-to-point trail that follows the Dungeness Spit and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This scenic trail offers breathtaking views of the coastline, wildlife, and distant mountains. Hikers can choose to hike the entire trail or select sections, making it accessible to hikers of various fitness levels.

Backcountry Trails

Alaloch Beaches

Venture off the beaten path and explore the secluded Alaloch Beaches, a series of pristine coves and sandy beaches accessible via a challenging 2.8-mile out-and-back trail. This backcountry trail rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, abundant seabirds, and the opportunity to discover hidden tide pools teeming with marine life. Along the way, hikers navigate rocky headlands and ascend to viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the coastline.

Shi Shi Beach

For an extended backcountry adventure, embark on the Hoh River Trail, a moderate 17-mile point-to-point trail that leads to Shi Shi Beach, a remote and breathtaking stretch of coastline. Along the way, hikers traverse lush rainforests, cross roaring rivers, and ascend to scenic viewpoints. The trail culminates at Shi Shi Beach, where hikers can camp amidst towering sea stacks, driftwood, and the mesmerizing sounds of the Pacific Ocean.

Wildlife Encounters

Hiking in Olympic National Park offers unparalleled opportunities to encounter a diverse array of wildlife. From majestic animals to elusive creatures, the park is home to a vibrant ecosystem that