Trails & Hikes

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park presents a rare opportunity to experience three distinct ecosystems in a single destination—from temperate rainforests draped in emerald moss and ancient Sitka spruces to alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers and rugged coastal bluffs where the Cascading mountains meet the sea. The park's trails wind through landscapes sculpted by glaciers and time, offering hikers an unparalleled journey through primordial wilderness without ever leaving Washington State. Whether you're trekking beneath cathedral-like canopies of old-growth forest or scrambling across tide pools teeming with starfish and anemones, Olympic's diverse terrain ensures every step reveals a new wonder.

A trail leads through an old growth forest surrounded by ferns.

Walk the Moments in Time Trail

15-30 Minutes Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Take a peaceful stroll at Barnes Point on Lake Crescent on the Moments in Time Trail.

A trailhead with a sign that reads "Peabody Creek Trail."

Take a Short Hike Near the Visitor Center

15-30 Minutes Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Near the Olympic National Park Visitor Center, two short loop hikes take visitors through peaceful, green lowland forests.

Location: Start from the Visitor Center

A waterfall rushes over mossy rocks to a pond below.

See Madison Falls

5-15 Minutes Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Madison Falls is a stunning 60-foot waterfall near the Elwha River. It's also one of the most accessible destinations at the park, making it a great stop for families and visitors of all abilities.

Go to the Beach

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

A trip to the Olympic Coast is sure to be memorable! Olympic National Park contains several beach areas along the coast, each with something to offer. Learn more about popular beaches and start planning your trip!

A black and white dog poses with a ranger hat.

Take a Pet-Friendly Hike

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Pets: they’re our faithful friends and loyal companions. But at Olympic National Park, they aren’t allowed everywhere! You can still have a great time at Olympic with pets, but be sure to read carefully and follow the rules so you know what to do and where to go.

Backpack in Olympic National Park

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall Reservation Required

While this app is a great tool for "front country" visits (places you can get to with a car, bike, or short hike), it's not meant to guide you through the back country. For that we have the Wilderness Information Center - WIC for short. The WIC rangers can talk through routes, gear, and trail conditions with you, and set you up with a permit.