Olympic National Park is one of Washington’s best parks for its fantastic variety of hiking trails. From quick and easy loops through the forest to extended beachside walks, there’s something for every kind of adventurer here. To get you started on planning your next trip here, these are the absolute best hikes in Olympic National Park for every level, including the must-see spots and some hidden gems:
1. Rialto Beach Trail: 13.5 miles out and back
The first up on this list of the best hikes in Olympic National Park is the Rialto Beach Trail. You can visit the beach on its own, without embarking on the long coastal walk. However, there’s much to enjoy on this route, making it an extraordinary journey from start to finish.
Although most of the hike is flat, it can be challenging if you don’t have the proper footwear, as the rocks on the shore are slippery and tricky to walk on. Hiking boots are ideal versus sandals, so pack accordingly.
Although you can technically hike the entire length of this trail, make sure to diligently check the tide, as the section after Hole-in-the-Wall is inaccessible during high tide. The National Park Service also recommends carrying a topographic map on your hike.
If you decide to hike from Rialto Beach to Hole-in-the-Wall, famous for its tide pools and rock formations, it’s only 1.5 miles each way. If you visit during low tide, you might also be able to see some sea stars and anemones!
2. Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge Trail: 3.2 miles, out and back
This trail leads up to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in all of Olympic National Park, so if that isn’t a reason to give it a try, I don’t know what is. From the panoramic view at the trail’s end, you’ll see (on a clear day) the Olympic range, Puget Sound, and Vancouver Island.
The total elevation gain for this trail is about 700 feet. Most of it is paved, so it’s not as wild as others in the park, but there are still ample opportunities to see wildlife along the way.
The trailhead starts about 1.5 miles past the Hurricane Ridge Visitors Center and leads to one of the most accessible hikes on this list. The first quarter-mile is even wheelchair accessible.
3. Mount Storm King Trail: 4 miles, out and back
This challenging hike is certainly not for the faint of heart, as it requires a two-mile uphill trek. It has a total elevation gain of just over 2,000 feet,…
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