The Evolution Of Two Days In Olympic National Park
Going to a National Park in the United States can be a stressful at times, especially if you only have a couple of days to visit. To help ease that stress I have put together an easy guide to visiting the Olympic National Park if you only have two days to spend there.
The Ranger Station and Information Centers
When arriving to a National Park for a multi-day trip the best words of advice I can give is to first stop by the ranger station or visitor center. Here you can get maps, check weather reports, ask all the questions you have, and even check on space at campsites around the park.
When I arrived in Olympic National Park it was just after a long rain and I was worried that some of the larger peaks had been snowed in. Lucky for me the center has camera at some of the more popular peaks showing exactly what I had feared, a lot of snow and cloud coverage. This saved me hours of driving and allowed me to plan on seeing other sites around the park.
Port Angeles
Port Angeles is headquarters for nearby Olympic National Park. So naturally your trip into the park should start here. This attractive city is a gateway to the wild northwest and a worthy destination in itself, with a bustling marina and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation
Day 1
From Port Angeles head to the visitor center to get a map, ask questions, and check weather.
**If weather is clear head to Hurricane Ridge .You can check with the rangers at the visitor center about visibility before you drive up.
Hike to Marymere Falls
The Marymere Falls Trail begins on the south shore of Lake Crescent, just east of the Storm King Ranger Station. The trail travels 0.7 miles (one way) while gradually gaining 200 feet of elevation through old growth forest. Shortly before reaching the falls, the trail crosses two log bridges that lead to a 0.2 mile loop trail that gains 200 feet of elevation with two platforms for viewing the 90-foot Marymere Falls. Picnic areas can be found around the Storm King Ranger Station.
The Marymere Falls Trailhead is approximately 21 miles and 40 minutes west of Port Angeles. Take 101 west and turn north following the signs for the Storm King Ranger Station.
Lunch along Lake Crescent
Lake Crescent is a deep lake located entirely within Olympic National Park in Clallam County, Washington, United States, approximately 17 miles west of Port Angeles on U.S. Route 101.
Along the highway you will see a lot of scenic stops with plenty of parking and areas to setup a little picnic or quick bite in the car.
What to Do Next
Option#1 Head back to Port Angeles to stay the night and explore the town.
Option#2 Drive to La Push and camp at Mora Campground
If you choose this option you can try to catch the sunset at Rialto Beach which is a 5 minute drive from the campsite
You can also explore the many beaches along the La Push coast like First Beach.
Day 2
Hoh Rainforest
The Hoh is one of the finest remaining examples of temperate rainforest in the United States and is one of the park's most popular destinations.
The Hoh lies on the west side of Olympic National Park, about a two-hour drive from Port Angeles and under an hour from Forks. The Hoh Rain Forest is accessed by the Upper Hoh Road, off of Highway 101.
The drive to the trailhead is beautiful and keep an eye out for wild life walking about the forest near the road. Once you arrive you pay the park entry fee or show your pass and head along designated walking paths through the rainforest. You can also take one of the many multi day back country camping trails for a few miles and explore a quieter and less traveled to area. You may even run into some backpackers as well.
Hike to Sol Duc Falls, Sol Duc
The Sol Duc Falls Trail begins from the parking lot at the end of the 12-mile Sol Duc Road. The trail travels 0.8 miles (one way) through old growth forest with a 50-foot elevation change. The 90-foot Sol Duc Falls Trail approaches the falls from above, allowing the unusual view of the top of the waterfall. A trail bridge carries hikers across the steep, narrow canyon and provides great falls viewing. After crossing the bridge, the trail leads to additional safe viewing platforms located just upstream.
The Sol Duc Falls Trailhead is approximately 41 miles and one hour west of Port Angeles. Take 101 west and turn south onto Sol Duc Road, following it to the end.
Kalaloch Campground
The Kalaloch Campground is definitely one of more popular sites in Olympic. If you can get access to a visitor center try and see if the rangers know how full the campsite is before going. You also may be able to make a reservation during certain seasons.
The campsite is located just off highway 101 just outside of the Hoh Rainforest. Sites include a fire ring and table, with bathrooms located all around the campground.
Just a 5-minute walk from your site you will have access to miles and miles of beach, and the sunsets here are something to be seen. In my opinion camping here is a must!
