Olympic National Park covers nearly a million acres of stunning wilderness in Washington State. Snow-capped peaks rise above meadows carpeted with wildflowers. Salmon leap over waterfalls in temperate rainforests. Tide pools teem with life along moody beaches. Visit this lesser-known gem to find amazing trails, abundant wildlife and views that will take your breath away. Get prepared for your trip with a few basic Olympic essentials that you’ll want to know.

Get oriented.

Olympic National Park encompasses most of Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula and is accessed mainly by Hwy. 101. West of Port Angeles services like gas stations and restaurants are limited, so plan ahead.

Entrance fees.

You can buy a $30 7-day pass at a park entrance station, or use your America the Beautiful or other interagency annual pass to get into the national park.

Exploring the tide pools on Rialto Beach. (Photo: NPS Public Domain) Respect the tides.

The park’s rugged coastline makes for some incredible hiking opportunities, but it’s important to always check the tides before heading out. Know how to use and carry a map and a tide chart to ensure you don’t get stranded by high or low water levels. Use caution when exploring tide pools as the rocks surrounding them can be sharp and slippery. Keep an eye out for rogue waves and respect the tidal wildlife.

Hike smart.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in Olympic National Park in the summer months at high elevation and lightning can pose a real danger to hikers. Hike in the morning and plan to be back at the trailhead by early afternoon. If you hear thunder or see dark and building clouds, turn back immediately.