General information about the National Park
The Olympic National Park consists of three very different parts. Besides a 65mi long coastal section and a rainforest, the Olympic Mountains also are part of the park. So you can find different climatic zones on a relatively small area. The park became a national park in 1938 and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981.
Unfortunately, the Olympic NP was only once on our route. So all information and photos are from 1998. Let's see how long it takes us to get back to the far north, because there is still so much to discover here.
Number of visitors
In 2023 Olympic NP ranked 10th in the visitor statistics of the most visited national parks.
Best time to visit: In the summer because it rains the least.
Our visits:
So far 1 visit: June 1998
Entrance fees and opening hours
- 30$/car and all passengers valid for 7 days
- Covered by the Anual Pass*
- Open 24h all year round.
*The Anual Pass is so to speak the "flat rate" for all Parks managed by the National Park Service. The pass costs a one-time fee of $80 and can be purchased at the entrance to each National Park, National Monument, etc. The pass is valid for 13 months.
Rialto Beach
Description: Rialto Beach is a section of the 65mi coastline that is part of the National Park. Here, in addition to a rugged and jagged coastline, you can also get a glimpse of the life of various Indian tribes that have made their home here for centuries.
Our rating: We spent the night at the adjacent campsite and were able to spend the sunset here on the beach. It was a great experience to see the sun disappear into the ocean.
Hoh Rainforest
Description: The Hoh Rainforest is located at the eastern end of the Olympic Mountains. The special climatic conditions allow some endemic plants to grow here. In addition, you can admire countless moss-covered giant trees standing in a green sea of ferns.
Our rating: Even though it was a very long time ago, we still have fond memories of our hike at Hoh Rainforest. We would love to come here again to see more of it.
