Olympic National Park is one of the most ecologically diverse parks in the US — within 90 miles you can walk through a UNESCO World Heritage temperate rainforest, across alpine meadows above treeline, and along one of the most undeveloped coastlines in the contiguous 48 states. This 3-day itinerary captures all three ecosystems.
Day 1: Hoh Rainforest
Start at the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center (south entrance to the park). The Hall of Mosses Trail (0.8 miles) is one of the most photographed walks in the Pacific Northwest — enormous maple trees draped in thick sheets of bright green moss, utterly otherworldly. Follow it with the Hoh River Trail (go as far as you like — the first 3 miles are flat and spectacular). Camp at Hoh Campground or drive to Kalaloch Lodge for a comfortable base.
Day 2: Hurricane Ridge
Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center sits at 5,242 feet — above treeline, with direct views of the Olympic Mountains and on clear days, Vancouver Island across the Strait. The Hurricane Hill Trail (3.2 miles RT, 700 ft gain) follows the ridge to a summit viewpoint with 360° panoramas. Wildflowers in July and August are exceptional. Black-tailed deer frequently wander through the picnic area. Note: Hurricane Ridge Road requires a timed entry permit from May–September (recreation.gov).
Day 3: The Olympic Coast
The Olympic coastline requires a backcountry permit for overnight stays but is accessible for day hiking. The Second Beach Trail near La Push (1.4 miles RT) delivers dramatic Pacific views, sea stacks, and tide pools in under an hour of walking. The Rialto Beach day use area (no permit required) is one of the most accessible pieces of wild Washington coastline — walk north on the beach toward Hole-in-the-Wall for 1.5 miles for the iconic sea arch.
Practical Notes
- Park entrance fee: America the Beautiful pass covers entry
- Best season: July–September for alpine access; year-round for rainforest and coast
- Cell service: nearly nonexistent throughout the park — download maps offline
- Driving distances within the park are long — plan for 30–60 minutes between major areas
