Olympic National Park Is one of the most beautiful national parks in the country. Tucked in the northwest region of Washington state, Olympic covers about 1442 square miles. One of the most unique parts of the park are the three distinct ecosystems it contains: glacier capped mountains, temperate rainforests, and pacific coastline. Even though it is not as popular as other parks, receiving around 3 million visitors per year, it is just as beautiful.
Mountains
The mountains in Olympic peak at 7,979 feet at the top of Mount Olympus. These mountains are covered by ancient glaciers. Some of these glaciers even cover several square miles. These mountains are great for many outdoor activities. There are many areas for climbing in the park. Snowshoeing is also a very popular activity especially in the winter months.
Temperate Rainforests
The rainforests of Olympic National Park cover about 2,000 square miles. The 200 inches of rain annually, the climate, and other factors provide the perfect combination for dense but beautiful forests. It also creates the perfect environment for the great biodiversity that exists within the park. These forests are home to many of Olympics Park’s beautiful hiking trails.
Coastline
In addition to mountains and rainforests Olympic National park is also home to 73 miles of coastline on the pacific ocean. There are many beaches including Rialto beach, Ruby Beach, and Kalaloch Beach. These beaches are home to many beautiful rock formations and unique views. There is also an abundance of wildlife in these coastline areas. There is a good chance of spotting seals and otters in the water. The tide pools that form in these areas are home to many types of life like sea anemones, starfish, crabs and many others.
Trails in Olympic national parks
Marymere Falls Trail: Marymere Falls Trail is an easy 1.8 mile hike that ends at a beautiful 90 ft waterfall. This out and back trail takes about an hour to complete and takes you through dense forests as well as an 315 foot elevation.
Sol Duc Falls Trail: Similar to the Marymere trail, the Sol Duc falls trail is another easy 1.8 mile out and back trail that brings you to a beautiful waterfall. This trail brings to the top of the waterfalls and allows you to look down over it.
Hurricane Ridge: Hurricane Ridge is one of the more difficult hikes in the park. It is a 3.4 mile hike that on average takes about two hours to complete. The 800 foot elevation gain mixed with distance and the terrain are what can make this a difficult hike.
Devil’s Punchbowl Via Spruce Railroad Trail: Spruce Railroad Trail to Devils punch bowl is an easy, scenic 2 and a half mile trail along Lake Crescent. This trail has many incredible views of the lake and can be completed in about an hour.
Mount Storm King Trail: Mount Storm King Trail is a 4.1 mile out and back trail that is considered to be one of the most difficult hikes in Olympic. There is a 2,000 foot elevation gain with many steep areas with ropes to help the climb. Experience with difficult trails is highly recommended for anyone wanting to hike this trail.