The 12 Prettiest Spots in Olympic National Park You Won’t Believe Exist

You guys, Olympic National Park left me completely stunned. I spent a week exploring this slice of Washington last fall, and I still can’t get over how one park packs in so many different worlds. The most beautiful places in Olympic National Park seriously mess with your head—one minute you’re walking through a rainforest dripping with moss (Ruby Beach at sunset was unreal), and the next you’re standing on Hurricane Ridge watching clouds swirl around snowy peaks.

Here are the 12 spots in Olympic that made me stop dead in my tracks. Fair warning: you might want to clear some space on your phone, because, trust me, you’re going to be taking an embarrassing number of photos at every single one of these places.

Prettiest Spots to See in Olympic National Park

Looking to explore Olympic National Park’s most beautiful places? From the lush rainforests of Hoh Rain Forest to the rugged coastline of Rialto Beach, Olympic National Park is packed with stunning scenery. Stroll through the serene trails of Hurricane Ridge, marvel at the natural beauty of Lake Crescent, or explore the diverse ecosystems of Sol Duc Falls. Discover the tranquil allure of Ruby Beach, the towering trees of Quinault Rain Forest, or the breathtaking views from Mount Olympus. Whether you’re into forests, beaches, or mountain vistas, here are 12 of Olympic National Park’s most breathtaking spots!

1. Hoh River Trail

• 📍 Location: Western Olympic Peninsula, about 2 hours from Port Angeles and 3.5 hours from Seattle
• 🏆 Best For: Rainforest explorers 🌧️, hikers 🥾, wildlife spotters 🦌
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking among moss-draped trees, hiking to Five Mile Island, spotting Roosevelt elk
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall, with summer offering drier conditions but more crowds 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hoh Rain Forest Campground – Immersive camping experience within the temperate rainforest

Step into nature’s own version of a fantasy film set at Hoh River Trail, where hanging moss and prehistoric-looking ferns create the ultimate escape from your work emails. This verdant wonderland receives over 140 inches of annual rainfall, creating an ecosystem unlike anywhere else in America.

The popular Hall of Mosses loop covers the first 1.5 miles, perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy shots without a major time commitment. I’ve never seen such vibrant shades of green in one place! For more adventure, continue to Five Mile Island as a satisfying day-hike destination. Watch for Roosevelt elk grazing in forest clearings and listen for northern spotted owls calling overhead.

The dense canopy keeps temperatures cool even during summer months, making this a refreshing escape when other hiking destinations become scorching hot.

2. Hurricane Ridge

• 📍 Location: Northern Olympic Peninsula, just 17 miles south of Port Angeles
• 🏆 Best For: Mountain views 🏔️, wildflower enthusiasts 🌼, winter sports enthusiasts ⛷️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Panoramic views of Olympic Mountains, subalpine meadow hiking, winter skiing and snowshoeing
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July-September for wildflowers and clear views, December-March for winter recreation ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lake Crescent Lodge – Historic lakefront accommodations with rustic charm, just 30 minutes from Hurricane Ridge

Tired of “hiking” on crowded urban trails? Hurricane Ridge has the mountain experience you’ve been craving without requiring technical climbing skills. This 5,242-foot alpine meadow offers jaw-dropping panoramas that will upgrade your social media game instantly.

The 17-mile drive from Port Angeles climbs nearly a mile in elevation. Summer brings explosions of wildflowers as subalpine meadows become carpeted with lupine and avalanche lilies. Families appreciate the easy paved trails like the Hurricane Hill path, while fitness enthusiasts can challenge themselves on longer routes.

Winter transforms the ridge into a snow-sports paradise with downhill ski lifts and snowshoe routes. My favorite memory here was watching the alpenglow turn distant peaks gold at sunset. The visitor center operates year-round, providing orientation and a place to warm up after adventures.

3. Kalaloch Beach

• 📍 Location: Southwestern Olympic Peninsula along Highway 101, about 2.5 hours from Port Angeles
• 🏆 Best For: Beach combers 🐚, sunset chasers 🌅, wildlife watchers 🦅
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the famous Tree of Life, tidepooling at low tide, watching for migrating whales
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer for warmest temperatures, spring and fall for fewer crowds and storm watching 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kalaloch Lodge – Historic oceanfront accommodation with cabins and lodge rooms

Need a digital detox? Kalaloch Beach offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure where powerful Pacific waves have sculpted a dramatic shoreline of sea stacks and broad sandy stretches. This is where stressed professionals come to remember what matters.

The mysterious “Tree of Life” defies logic as it clings to existence despite having its roots almost completely exposed by erosion. This natural marvel creates a perfect frame for photos that need no filter. Low tide reveals colorful tidepools teeming with sea stars, anemones, and other marine creatures.

Birdwatchers can spot bald eagles and ospreys while lucky visitors might glimpse otters or even gray whales during migration. Watching the sunset here reminds me why we work so hard all year. The fiery sky reflected in wet sand creates moments worth savoring.

4. Klahhane Ridge Trail

• 📍 Location: Northern Olympic Peninsula, accessed via Hurricane Ridge Road, about 20 miles from Port Angeles
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers seeking challenges 🥾, mountain goat spotters 🐐, photography enthusiasts 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the exposed alpine ridge, enjoying 360-degree mountain views, spotting wildlife
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July through September when snow has melted from higher elevations 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Olympic Lodge – Comfortable accommodations with mountain views and convenient access to Olympic National Park trails

Looking for bragging rights among your hiking friends? Klahhane Ridge Trail has Olympic National Park’s most dramatic high-country experience with knife-edge terrain and sweeping views that make ordinary lookout points seem boring.

This challenging trail starts from either Hurricane Ridge or the Switchback trailhead. The 3.8-mile length (one-way) offers constant rewards with breathtaking panoramas of the Olympic Mountains and Strait of Juan de Fuca. On clear days, you can even spot Canada’s Vancouver Island.

Alpine wildflower meadows burst with color during the brief summer growing season. The area’s famous mountain goats often appear, clinging to seemingly impossible rocky perches. Weather changes quickly at this elevation, so pack layers and rain gear even on sunny days. This hike represents alpine Olympic at its finest but demands good fitness and a head for heights.

5. Lake Crescent

• 📍 Location: Northern Olympic Peninsula along Highway 101, about 30 minutes west of Port Angeles
• 🏆 Best For: Kayakers 🛶, swimmers 🏊‍♀️, relaxation seekers 😌
• 📸 Top Experiences: Paddling the crystal-clear waters, hiking to Marymere Falls, enjoying lakeside picnics
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through September for warmest water temperatures and best weather ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lake Crescent Lodge – Historic 1916 lodge offering rooms in the main building and lakeside cottages

Escape the filters and find nature’s real-life blue-green Instagram preset at Lake Crescent, where extraordinary clarity reveals depths of nearly 624 feet. This glacially-carved gem nestles between steep forested mountains just off Highway 101, making it the perfect weekend getaway for Seattle urbanites.

Recreation possibilities abound from kayaking mirror-like waters to swimming in designated areas. Anglers can try for the lake’s native Beardslee and Crescenti trout, species found nowhere else on Earth. The easy one-mile hike to Marymere Falls rewards with a 90-foot cascade surrounded by old-growth forest.

For a more challenging adventure, tackle the Storm King Trail for bird’s-eye views from 2,000 feet above. Nothing beats ending your day watching sunset from the historic lodge’s massive porch. Trust me, this is where childhood vacation memories are still made, even for grown-ups.

• Read Next: Most Beautiful Places in the Pacific Northwest

6. Lake Quinault

• 📍 Location: Southwestern Olympic Peninsula, about 2 hours from Port Angeles and 3 hours from Seattle
• 🏆 Best For: Old-growth forest enthusiasts 🌲, water sports fans 🚣‍♀️, relaxation seekers 😌
• 📸 Top Experiences: Driving the Valley of the Giants loop, exploring world’s largest Sitka spruce, boating on the lake
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through October for driest conditions, though the temperate rainforest is impressive year-round 🌧️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lake Quinault Lodge – Historic 1926 lakefront lodge with rustic charm and modern amenities

When adulting gets overwhelming, Lake Quinault offers the perfect remedy with ancient trees that put your problems in perspective. This glacier-carved lake reflects surrounding mountains while providing access to some of Earth’s largest trees, including the world’s largest Sitka spruce, towering 191 feet.

The 31-mile Quinault Rainforest Loop Drive circles the lake and valley, connecting short trails like the 0.5-mile World’s Largest Spruce Trail. These gentle paths welcome even the most dedicated office dwellers back to nature without requiring marathon-level fitness.

Calm waters invite kayaking, canoeing, and fishing for trout and salmon. After exploration, unwind at the historic Lake Quinault Lodge, built in 1926. Sitting in an Adirondack chair overlooking the lake feels like stepping into a simpler time. President Franklin Roosevelt felt the same during his 1937 visit.

7. Marymere Falls

• 📍 Location: Olympic National Park, Washington, about 30 minutes west of Port Angeles near Lake Crescent
• 🏆 Best For: Waterfall chasers 💦, forest hikers 🌲, nature photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the lush trail to the 90-foot waterfall, exploring the ancient forest, visiting nearby Lake Crescent
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for best trail conditions, though the falls flow year-round 🌧️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lake Crescent Lodge – Historic accommodations on the shores of the glacial lake

Marymere Falls offers that Instagram-worthy waterfall moment without the grueling hike your college self might have endured. This 90-foot cascade hides within a storybook forest of towering ancient trees just a short 1.8-mile round trip from the trailhead. I’ve never seen moss so vibrant as what covers virtually every surface along this magical path.

Two charming footbridges cross Barnes Creek before you reach viewing platforms perfectly positioned for photos of the falls plunging into a rocky pool below. Visit late afternoon when sunlight filters through the forest canopy. The trail begins near historic Lake Crescent, so save time to explore its stunning turquoise waters. This easily accessible natural wonder has maximum Pacific Northwest vibes with minimal effort.

8. Pacific Coastline

• 📍 Location: Olympic National Park, Washington, stretching 73 miles along the westernmost edge of the continental US
• 🏆 Best For: Beachcombers 🐚, tide pool explorers 🦀, storm watchers 🌊
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring dramatic sea stacks, discovering marine life in tide pools, watching spectacular sunsets
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer for mild weather and lower tides, winter for dramatic storm watching and fewer crowds 🌩️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kalaloch Lodge – Cliffside cabins with panoramic ocean views

Forget tropical beaches with crowded resorts. The wild Pacific Coastline of Olympic National Park has a rugged escape where massive driftwood logs stack like nature’s art installation and jagged sea stacks rise from churning surf. This 73-mile stretch offers everything from easily accessible beaches to remote stretches requiring short forest hikes.

Ruby Beach features iconic sea stacks and colorful stones perfect for your social media feed. The Kalaloch area showcases the famous “Tree of Life,” a Sitka spruce somehow surviving with roots spanning an eroded cave. My favorite time to visit is during low tide when vibrant pools reveal starfish, anemones, and tiny crabs. Come at sunset when silhouettes of offshore formations create dramatic backdrops against golden skies reflecting in wet sand.

9. Rialto Beach

• 📍 Location: Olympic National Park, Washington, about 20 minutes west of Forks on the western coast
• 🏆 Best For: Driftwood collectors 🪵, sunset chasers 🌅, wilderness beach hikers 👣
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to Hole-in-the-Wall, beach combing for treasures, watching powerful Pacific waves
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer for best hiking conditions and lower tides, though misty winter days offer dramatic atmosphere 🌫️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Quileute Oceanside Resort – Native American-owned accommodations just north at La Push

Need that moody coastal aesthetic that screams PNW adventure? Rialto Beach has with its atmospheric shoreline where silver driftwood giants rest like bones against a backdrop of fog-shrouded sea stacks. The smooth stone beach creates an oddly satisfying soundtrack as waves pull pebbles back with each retreat.

The beach’s highlight is Hole-in-the-Wall, a dramatic natural arch about 1.5 miles north of the parking area. Time your visit for low tide to safely explore colorful tide pools teeming with marine life. I once spotted sea otters playing in offshore kelp beds while eagles soared overhead. For peak drama: stick around for sunset when silhouettes of jagged rocks create nature’s perfect frame for the setting sun.

10. Salmon Cascades

• 📍 Location: Olympic National Park, Washington, along the Sol Duc River about 8 miles into the Sol Duc Valley
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife watchers 🐟, photographers 📸, nature lovers 🌿
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching salmon leap upstream during migration, exploring the Sol Duc Valley, hiking nearby trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late September through October for salmon runs, spring for lush greenery and fewer crowds 🍃
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort – Rustic cabins with access to natural mineral pools nearby

Witness nature’s version of an Olympic sport at Salmon Cascades, where determined coho salmon launch themselves upstream against rushing currents in an impressive display of raw determination. This easily accessible overlook provides front-row seats to one of nature’s most dramatic life cycles during fall migration season.

October brings the best viewing opportunities when salmon, their bodies turned bright red, make multiple attempts to clear the foaming rapids. The overlook requires just a short walk from parking, making this perfect for a quick stop. Patience rewards visitors with unforgettable moments of these powerful fish succeeding against the odds. After watching, I recommend continuing to nearby Sol Duc Hot Springs where you can soak in mineral-rich pools surrounded by forest.

11. Shi Shi Beach

• 📍 Location: Olympic National Park, Washington, near Neah Bay at the northwestern tip of the continental US
• 🏆 Best For: Backpackers 🎒, wilderness seekers 🌄, coastal photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Camping with ocean views, photographing Point of Arches, walking miles of undeveloped shoreline
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July through September for driest conditions and best tidepooling opportunities 🐙
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hobuck Beach Resort – Beachfront cabins and campsites just 2 miles from the Shi Shi Beach trailhead, offering comfortable amenities while maintaining proximity to this natural wonder

Want bragging rights to the most spectacular and remote beach in the Northwest? Shi Shi Beach has wilderness perfection for those willing to earn it. The 2-mile forest hike followed by a steep descent keeps the crowds away and preserves the pristine shoreline that awaits.

The southern end features the remarkable Point of Arches, a series of natural sea arches creating an otherworldly landscape at low tide. With a backcountry permit, you can camp directly on the beach and wake to misty coastal mornings that feel worlds away from conference calls and deadlines. The most magical moments happen at low tide when hidden pools reveal vibrant marine life. I’ve never felt more reconnected than watching the sunset here transform rocky silhouettes against a technicolor sky.

12. Sol Duc Falls

• 📍 Location: Olympic National Park, Washington, about 40 minutes southwest of Port Angeles in the northern section of the park
• 🏆 Best For: Waterfall enthusiasts 💦, photographers 📸, day hikers 🥾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the unique triple-channel waterfall, hiking the lush rainforest trail, extending to Deer Lake
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for best trail conditions, though the falls are impressive year-round 🌈
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort – Rustic cabins just minutes from the trailhead

Experience waterfall perfection that might ruin all other cascades for you at Sol Duc Falls. This isn’t your typical single-stream waterfall. Here, the river splits into three distinct channels before plunging 48 feet into a narrow, rocky canyon with theatrical flair.

The 1.6-mile round-trip trail winds through an enchanted forest that feels plucked from a fantasy film. Towering trees draped in emerald moss create a cathedral-like atmosphere, while delicate ferns carpet the forest floor. Several small creek crossings add charm with picturesque wooden footbridges. Standing on the rustic bridge directly facing the falls, I felt the mist on my face while the thundering roar vibrated through my chest. After hiking, treat yourself to a soak in the nearby mineral hot springs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Olympic National Park

Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic spots in Olympic National Park? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best Olympic National Park top tourist attractions.

What is the most beautiful part of the Olympic National Park?

Olympic National Park offers diverse ecosystems, from rugged coastlines and temperate rainforests to alpine meadows and snow-capped mountains. While every part of the park has its unique charm, Hoh Rainforest is definitely the most beautiful part of Olympic National Park. Here’s why:

• The Hoh Rainforest is one of the largest temperate rainforests in the U.S. It has lush greenery, moss-draped trees, and a dense canopy that filters sunlight into a soft, ethereal glow.
• The forest floor is carpeted with ferns, and the constant drizzle ensures that everything is perpetually damp, giving the forest a mystical and otherworldly ambiance.
• The Hall of Mosses Trail and the Spruce Nature Trail are popular routes. They offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the heart of the rainforest, surrounded by ancient trees and the symphony of nature.
• Wildlife enthusiasts might spot Roosevelt elk, Pacific tree frogs, and a plethora of bird species.

What is beautiful about Olympic National Park?

Olympic National Park offers natural wonders that showcases the diverse beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Here’s what makes it exceptionally beautiful:

1. Diverse Ecosystems: The park is a unique amalgamation of several ecosystems. From temperate rainforests and rugged coastlines to alpine meadows and ancient forests, the park offers a variety of landscapes.
2. Lush Rainforests: The Hoh and Quinault Rainforests are verdant paradises, with moss-draped trees, fern-covered grounds, and a canopy that seems to touch the sky. The constant mist gives these forests a mystical aura, making them a haven for photographers and nature lovers.
3. Majestic Mountains: The Olympic Mountains rise dramatically, with snow-capped peaks like Mount Olympus offering breathtaking vistas. The alpine meadows surrounding these mountains burst into a riot of colors during spring and summer. I love seeing the wildflowers that paint the landscape.
4. Pristine Coastlines: The park boasts nearly 73 miles of wild coastline. Places like Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach offer dramatic sea stacks, tide pools teeming with marine life, and the rhythmic sound of crashing waves.
5. Serene Lakes: Lake Crescent and Lake Quinault are serene freshwater lakes with crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by mountains and forests, these lakes are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or simply soaking in the tranquility.
6. Diverse Wildlife: The park is home to a variety of animals, including Roosevelt elk, black bears, marmots, and bald eagles. The rivers teem with salmon, and the tide pools along the coast are microcosms of marine biodiversity.
7. Hot Springs: The Sol Duc Hot Springs offer a therapeutic experience amidst nature. Surrounded by forests, these mineral-rich pools are a perfect way to relax after a day of hiking.

Where is the best view of the Olympic Mountains?

The Olympic Mountains, a majestic range within the Olympic National Park, offer numerous vantage points for breathtaking views. While many locations provide stunning panoramas, one of the most popular and accessible spots to get the best view of the Olympic Mountains is Hurricane Ridge. Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Located just 17 miles south of Port Angeles, Hurricane Ridge offers a nearly 360-degree view of the Olympic Mountains and the surrounding landscape.
• On a clear day, visitors can see Mount Olympus. This is the highest peak in the range, along with other prominent peaks and the glacial valleys.
• The ridge is accessible by the Hurricane Ridge Road, which is open year-round, weather permitting. In the winter, the road is typically open only on weekends, and chains are required due to snow.
• There are several trails at Hurricane Ridge, ranging from easy walks to more strenuous hikes. All offer varying perspectives of the mountains.
• The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center provides interpretive displays. And the staff can offer insights into the best spots and times for optimal viewing.

How many days should I spend at Olympic National Park?

The ideal duration for a visit to Olympic National Park depends on your desired activities. However, here’s a general breakdown to help you plan:

1. Short Visit (1-2 Days):
   • Day 1: Explore the Hoh Rainforest with its Hall of Mosses and the Spruce Nature Trail. If time permits, visit Ruby Beach in the evening for sunset.
   • Day 2: Head to Hurricane Ridge for breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains. If you’re visiting during the summer, you can also explore some of the shorter trails in the area.
2. Moderate Stay (3-4 Days):
   • Day 1: Delve into the Hoh Rainforest and spend the evening at Ruby Beach.
   • Day 2: Explore Hurricane Ridge and its surrounding trails.
   • Day 3: Visit Lake Crescent and enjoy activities like kayaking or hiking to Marymere Falls. Later, relax in the Sol Duc Hot Springs.
   • Day 4: Explore the Quinault Rainforest and take a scenic drive around Lake Quinault or hike one of the trails.
3. Extended Visit (5-7 Days):
   • Day 1-4: Follow the itinerary for the moderate stay.
   • Day 5: Head to the northern coast and explore beaches like Rialto Beach and Second Beach. Look out for tide pools and sea stacks.
   • Day 6: Explore the Staircase region, with its dense forests and the beautiful Staircase Rapids Loop.
   • Day 7: Dedicate a day to wildlife watching. The park is home to Roosevelt elk, black bears, marmots, and bald eagles. Depending on the season, you might also spot whales off the coast.

Why is Olympic park famous?

Olympic National Park is famous for many reasons that make it a unique and cherished destination:

1. Diverse Ecosystems: The park is a rare blend of several ecosystems. This covers everything from temperate rainforests and rugged coastlines to alpine meadows and old-growth forests. This diversity has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage site designation.
2. Temperate Rainforests: The Hoh and Quinault Rainforests are among the few temperate rainforests in the U.S. They have massive trees draped in moss, dense undergrowth, and a consistent mist that gives the forests a mystical ambiance.
3. Stunning Coastline: The park boasts nearly 73 miles of pristine, wild coastline along the Pacific Ocean. Beaches like Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach have dramatic sea stacks, tide pools rich with marine life, and breathtaking sunsets.
4. Majestic Mountains: The Olympic Mountains rise from the heart of the park, with Mount Olympus standing as the tallest and most iconic peak. These mountains are home to glaciers, alpine meadows, and a diverse range of wildlife.
5. Unique Wildlife: The park is a haven for various species, including Roosevelt elk, black bears, marmots, and bald eagles. The coastal areas also offer opportunities to spot marine life, including seals, sea otters, and, occasionally, whales.
6. Recreational Opportunities: From hiking and backpacking to camping, fishing, and wildlife watching, the park offers a plethora of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Cultural Significance: The park holds deep cultural and historical importance for the indigenous tribes of the region. There are several sacred sites, and the park often collaborates with local tribes on preservation and interpretation efforts.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Olympic National Park

I hope you enjoyed reading my article on the most beautiful spots in Olympic National Park! From the mystical realms of the Hoh and Quinault Rainforests to the rugged beauty of its pristine coastline, the park beckons travelers with its unique blend of ecosystems.

Whether you’re seeking the tranquility of Lake Crescent’s shores, the therapeutic embrace of Sol Duc Hot Springs, or the thrill of exploring untouched wilderness, Olympic National Park promises memories that last a lifetime. In essence, it’s not just a destination but a journey into nature’s most beautiful secrets.