Where to Stay in Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park, located in Washington State, is a vast wilderness covering nearly 1,500 square miles. Known for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from alpine peaks and dense rainforests to rugged coastlines, the park offers an unforgettable outdoor experience. Choosing the right place to stay is essential for making the most of your visit, as the park’s size requires careful planning to minimize travel time between attractions.
This guide will help you navigate the best lodging options within and around the park, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Understanding Olympic National Park’s Geography
Before choosing where to stay, it’s important to understand the park’s geography. Olympic National Park is divided into several distinct regions, each offering unique attractions and experiences.
- Hurricane Ridge: This alpine area is known for breathtaking mountain views, wildflower-filled meadows, and excellent hiking trails. It is one of the most accessible high-altitude areas in the park.
- Pacific Coast: Home to dramatic sea stacks, tide pools, and driftwood-covered beaches, the park’s coastline offers stunning ocean scenery and a chance to experience coastal ecosystems.
- Hoh Rainforest: One of the most famous temperate rainforests in the world, this area is filled with towering moss-covered trees and abundant wildlife.
- Sol Duc Valley: Known for its hot springs and waterfalls, this region provides opportunities for both relaxation and adventure.
Understanding which areas you want to explore will help in selecting the best accommodation.
Lodging Inside Olympic National Park
For those who want to immerse themselves in nature, staying inside the park is a great option. While lodging within the park is limited and tends to book up quickly, it offers the advantage of being close to key attractions.
Lake Crescent Lodge
Nestled on the shores of the pristine Lake Crescent, this historic lodge offers a mix of cozy cabins, lodge rooms, and modern accommodations. The serene lake setting provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Guests can also explore nearby hiking trails such as Marymere Falls, a short and rewarding trek leading to a beautiful waterfall. The on-site dining room serves meals with stunning lake views, making for a truly peaceful retreat.
Kalaloch Lodge
If you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Pacific Coast, Kalaloch Lodge is an excellent choice. Located along the park’s western coastline, this lodge offers rustic yet comfortable accommodations, including ocean-view cabins and lodge rooms. Visitors can take in breathtaking sunsets, explore nearby beaches like Ruby Beach, and enjoy the sounds of crashing waves right from their doorstep. With no Wi-Fi or television in the rooms, it’s a perfect place for a digital detox and full immersion in nature.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
For a more unique experience, Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort offers cozy cabins alongside its famous hot spring pools. After a day of hiking or exploring, guests can soak in the mineral-rich waters, known for their therapeutic benefits. Nearby, the Sol Duc Falls Trail provides a scenic hike leading to one of the park’s most picturesque waterfalls. The resort also has a restaurant and a small shop for basic supplies.
Lodging Near Olympic National Park
If in-park lodging is unavailable or if you prefer more amenities, several nearby towns provide excellent accommodations with easy access to different parts of the park.
Port Angeles
As the largest town near Olympic National Park, Port Angeles serves as the primary gateway for visitors. It offers a range of lodging options, from budget motels to boutique hotels and bed-and-breakfasts. Staying here allows convenient access to Hurricane Ridge, one of the park’s most popular areas. Additionally, the town has a variety of restaurants, grocery stores, and outdoor gear shops, making it a practical base for exploring the park.
Forks
For those planning to spend time in the Hoh Rainforest or along the park’s coastal regions, Forks is a great place to stay. This small town is best known as the setting for the Twilight series, but beyond its literary fame, it offers cozy inns, motels, and vacation rentals. It’s a short drive to major attractions such as Rialto Beach, Second Beach, and the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center. Forks provides a quieter, more secluded alternative to the busier areas of the park.
Sequim
Located along the northern coast of the Olympic Peninsula, Sequim is famous for its sunny weather and beautiful lavender farms. While it is a bit farther from the park’s main attractions, it offers a charming, small-town atmosphere with boutique inns, bed-and-breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Visitors staying in Sequim can explore the nearby Dungeness Spit, a unique natural area with a scenic lighthouse and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Camping in Olympic National Park
For those who prefer an outdoor adventure, camping is one of the best ways to experience Olympic National Park. With numerous campgrounds available, visitors can stay close to nature and wake up to stunning landscapes.
Hoh Campground
Located deep within the Hoh Rainforest, this campground allows visitors to experience the magic of the ancient, moss-draped forest. It provides basic facilities, including potable water and restrooms, making it a comfortable yet rustic camping option. Staying here also gives easy access to trails like the Hall of Mosses, which showcases the rainforest’s enchanting scenery.
Kalaloch Campground
Situated along the coast, Kalaloch Campground is ideal for beach lovers. Many campsites offer stunning ocean views, and the nearby beaches provide excellent opportunities for tide pooling, beachcombing, and photography. It’s a great option for those looking to explore the park’s coastal areas while enjoying the sound of the waves at night.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Campground
For campers who want access to hot springs, this campground near Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is a fantastic choice. With close proximity to the hot spring pools and hiking trails leading to Sol Duc Falls, it provides a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Reservations are highly recommended, as this is one of the more popular campgrounds in the park.
Tips for Choosing the Right Accommodation
- Plan Ahead: Lodging inside the park and in nearby towns fills up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so it’s best to book well in advance.
- Consider Your Itinerary: Since the park is vast and driving distances can be long, choosing accommodations near the areas you plan to explore will save time.
- Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity: Many in-park accommodations have no Wi-Fi or cell service, making them ideal for a true wilderness experience.
- Explore Nearby Towns for More Options: If you prefer modern amenities or more dining choices, staying in towns like Port Angeles, Forks, or Sequim can be a practical alternative.
By choosing the right place to stay, you can enhance your Olympic National Park experience and fully immerse yourself in its breathtaking landscapes. Whether you prefer a historic lodge, a cozy cabin, or a scenic campsite, there’s an option to suit every traveler.
