Choosing where to stay when visiting Olympic National Park depends on your interests—whether it’s hiking mountain trails, exploring coastal beaches, or experiencing lush rainforests. This guide covers the best areas to stay based on activities, the types of lodging available, and seasonal considerations to help you plan your perfect getaway. If you're considering a unique stay, check out this guide on A-frame cabins in Olympic National Park.
Best Areas to Stay Based on Your Interests
Choosing the right base for your visit to Olympic National Park depends on your interests and the type of experience you want. The park’s vast and diverse landscapes include mountains, rainforests, coastline, and lakes, each offering unique opportunities for exploration. Below are the best areas to stay based on different interests.
Best for Hiking and Mountaineering
If you’re an avid hiker or interested in exploring the park’s mountainous terrain, staying near the Hurricane Ridge or Lake Crescent areas is ideal.
Port Angeles (Hurricane Ridge Access)
- Why Stay Here? Port Angeles is the best gateway to Hurricane Ridge, one of the most accessible high-altitude areas in the park, offering stunning mountain views and numerous hiking trails.
- Recommended Lodging Options: Hotels, motels, and rental cabins are available in Port Angeles, making it a convenient base for exploring the park’s northern section.
- Top Hiking Trails Nearby: Hurricane Hill Trail, Klahhane Ridge, and Switchback Trail.
Lake Crescent Area
- Why Stay Here? The Lake Crescent region offers a mix of scenic lakefront relaxation and access to excellent trails leading into the Olympic Mountains.
- Recommended Lodging Options: Lake Crescent Lodge provides a historic and comfortable stay, while nearby campgrounds are great for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Top Hiking Trails Nearby: Marymere Falls Trail, Mount Storm King Trail, and Spruce Railroad Trail.
Best for Coastal Exploration
For those drawn to rugged shorelines, tide pools, and Pacific Ocean vistas, staying on the park’s western side near the coast is the best choice.
Forks and La Push
- Why Stay Here? Forks is a small town offering accommodations and easy access to Olympic National Park’s coastal areas, including Rialto Beach, Second Beach, and Kalaloch.
- Recommended Lodging Options: Hotels, motels, and cabins in Forks; beachfront lodges near Kalaloch and La Push.
- Top Coastal Spots Nearby: Ruby Beach, Rialto Beach, and Shi Shi Beach.
Kalaloch and South Coast
- Why Stay Here? Kalaloch is one of the few places within the park where you can stay right on the beach, offering stunning sunset views and proximity to tide pools.
- Recommended Lodging Options: Kalaloch Lodge and nearby campgrounds.
- Top Coastal Spots Nearby: Kalaloch Beach, Beach 4, and the Tree of Life.
Best for Rainforest Experiences
Olympic National Park is home to some of the most impressive temperate rainforests in the world. If you want to immerse yourself in lush greenery and moss-draped trees, consider staying in the following areas.
Hoh Rainforest Area
- Why Stay Here? The Hoh Rainforest is one of the most famous sections of the park, featuring ancient trees, abundant wildlife, and enchanting trails.
- Recommended Lodging Options: Campgrounds within the rainforest or accommodations in Forks for nearby access.
- Top Hiking Trails Nearby: Hall of Mosses Trail, Spruce Nature Trail, and Hoh River Trail.
Quinault Rainforest Area
- Why Stay Here? Lake Quinault provides a quieter rainforest experience with beautiful trails and a scenic lake.
- Recommended Lodging Options: Lake Quinault Lodge, rental cabins, and campgrounds.
- Top Hiking Trails Nearby: Quinault Loop Trail, Kestner Homestead Trail, and Enchanted Valley Trail.
Best for Wildlife Viewing
Olympic National Park is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, black bears, bald eagles, and marine animals. To maximize your chances of spotting wildlife, consider staying in areas where animals are frequently seen.
Hoh Rainforest and Quinault Area
- Why Stay Here? These rainforest regions are prime spots for Roosevelt elk sightings, especially in the early morning or late evening.
- Recommended Lodging Options: Lake Quinault Lodge, Hoh Rainforest Campground, and nearby accommodations in Forks.
Coastal Areas (Kalaloch and Rialto Beach)
- Why Stay Here? The Pacific coastline is excellent for spotting seabirds, seals, and even migrating whales.
- Recommended Lodging Options: Kalaloch Lodge and coastal campgrounds.
Hurricane Ridge
- Why Stay Here? The high-altitude meadows of Hurricane Ridge provide excellent opportunities to see marmots, black bears, and deer.
- Recommended Lodging Options: Accommodations in Port Angeles for easy access to Hurricane Ridge.
By selecting the right base for your interests, you can make the most of your Olympic National Park adventure and experience its incredible diversity.
Types of Accommodation Available
When visiting Olympic National Park, travelers have a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. From rustic lodges within the park to comfortable hotels in nearby gateway communities, here are the main types of lodging available.
Lodging Within the Park
Staying inside Olympic National Park provides direct access to its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Options within the park include historic lodges, campgrounds, and wilderness camping.
Park Lodges and Resorts
Olympic National Park is home to several lodges that offer a mix of rustic charm and modern comforts. These lodges are ideal for those who want to stay close to nature while still enjoying amenities such as dining facilities and comfortable rooms. Notable lodges include:
- Lake Crescent Lodge – A historic retreat on the shores of Lake Crescent, offering cozy cabins and lodge rooms.
- Kalaloch Lodge – Located on the Pacific coast, perfect for those who want to experience the park’s rugged beaches.
- Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort – Known for its natural hot springs, this lodge is a great option for relaxation amidst the wilderness.
Campgrounds
For visitors who enjoy camping, Olympic National Park offers several front-country campgrounds with basic facilities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms. Some popular campgrounds include:
- Hoh Campground – Close to the Hoh Rain Forest, ideal for those looking to explore the lush, moss-draped trees.
- Heart O’ the Hills Campground – Conveniently located near Hurricane Ridge, a great base for alpine hiking.
- Mora Campground – Near Rialto Beach, providing easy access to the park’s dramatic coastline.
Reservations are recommended for some campgrounds, especially during the peak summer season, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Wilderness Camping
For more adventurous visitors, Olympic National Park offers backcountry camping experiences. With a permit, visitors can explore remote areas of the park and set up camp in designated wilderness zones. Popular backcountry destinations include:
- Seven Lakes Basin – A challenging yet rewarding backpacking route featuring alpine lakes and stunning mountain views.
- Enchanted Valley – Known for its historic chalet and waterfalls, a great option for a multi-day trek.
- Shi Shi Beach – A coastal camping experience with breathtaking sea stacks and tide pools.
Gateway Communities
For those who prefer more amenities or need easier access to restaurants and services, several communities surrounding Olympic National Park provide a range of accommodations.
Port Angeles Area
As the largest town near the park, Port Angeles offers a variety of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. It is a convenient base for exploring Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent, and the northern coastline. Options include:
- Mid-range hotels with modern amenities
- Budget motels for cost-conscious travelers
- Cozy bed-and-breakfasts for a more personalized experience
Forks and the Western Region
Forks, a small town made famous by the Twilight series, serves as a gateway to the park’s western regions, including the Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach. Accommodations in Forks include:
- Small motels and inns catering to visitors exploring the coastal and rainforest areas
- Cabins and vacation rentals for a more secluded stay
Lake Quinault Area
Located in the southern part of the park, the Lake Quinault region offers access to temperate rainforests and scenic lake views. Visitors can stay at:
- Lake Quinault Lodge – A historic lakeside retreat with charming rooms and dining options.
- Various cabins and inns nestled in the lush forest surroundings.
Hood Canal Region
The eastern side of Olympic National Park, near the Hood Canal, is less crowded and offers accommodations in small towns like Hoodsport and Brinnon. Lodging options include:
- Waterfront inns with views of the canal
- Private vacation rentals for a quiet retreat
Choosing the Right Accommodation
The best accommodation depends on your itinerary, desired level of comfort, and preferred park activities. Whether you choose to stay inside the park for easy access to nature or in a nearby town for convenience, Olympic National Park offers diverse lodging options to enhance your visit.
Seasonal Considerations
When planning a visit to Olympic National Park, the time of year plays a crucial role in determining where to stay. Each season brings unique weather conditions, accessibility challenges, and varying accommodation availability. Understanding these seasonal factors will help you choose the best lodging option for your itinerary.
Spring: Mild Weather and Emerging Crowds
Spring (March to May) in Olympic National Park offers moderate temperatures and the awakening of the park’s lush landscapes. While lower elevations and coastal areas become more accessible, higher-altitude regions, such as Hurricane Ridge, may still experience lingering snow.
Considerations for Accommodation in Spring:
- Park lodges and campgrounds begin to open gradually, but some may still be closed early in the season.
- Spring rains can be frequent, making waterproof gear essential.
- Wildlife activity increases, making it a great time for nature enthusiasts to visit.
- Lodging in gateway communities like Port Angeles or Forks provides flexibility if certain park areas remain inaccessible.
Summer: Peak Season and Full Accessibility
Summer (June to September) is the most popular time to visit Olympic National Park, as all areas are generally accessible. The weather is warm, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for hiking, camping, and exploring the park’s diverse landscapes.
Considerations for Accommodation in Summer:
- Lodging within the park, including park lodges and campgrounds, fills up quickly. Reservations should be made months in advance.
- Gateway towns such as Port Angeles, Forks, and Lake Quinault offer additional lodging options, but these also book up fast.
- The park experiences the highest number of visitors, so expect crowds, especially at popular spots like Hurricane Ridge and Hoh Rain Forest.
- Coastal areas, such as Kalaloch and Rialto Beach, provide excellent opportunities for summer camping and beach exploration.
Fall: Fewer Crowds and Vibrant Foliage
Fall (September to November) is a great time to visit for those seeking fewer crowds and scenic autumn colors. Temperatures start to drop, and rainfall increases, particularly in October and November.
Considerations for Accommodation in Fall:
- Many park lodges and campgrounds remain open through September but may begin closing in October.
- Lodging availability improves compared to summer, making it easier to find accommodations in both the park and gateway communities.
- Higher elevations may start seeing early snowfall, which can limit access to places like Hurricane Ridge.
- The Hoh Rain Forest and Sol Duc Valley are particularly beautiful in the fall, making nearby lodging options ideal for visitors.
Winter: Quiet Solitude and Limited Access
Winter (December to February) brings significant snowfall to the park’s mountainous regions, offering opportunities for winter recreation such as snowshoeing and skiing at Hurricane Ridge. However, many roads and facilities close due to weather conditions.
Considerations for Accommodation in Winter:
- Most park lodges shut down for the season, except for a few, like the Lake Crescent Lodge, which may have limited winter operations.
- Backcountry camping is possible, but only for experienced adventurers prepared for harsh winter conditions.
- Gateway communities such as Port Angeles and Forks provide year-round lodging options, though some businesses may operate on reduced schedules.
- Roads to higher elevations, including Hurricane Ridge Road, are subject to frequent closures due to snow and storms.
By considering these seasonal factors, visitors can plan their stay in Olympic National Park with a better understanding of when and where to book accommodations for the best experience.
Planning Your Stay
Booking Tips
When planning your stay in Olympic National Park, it’s essential to book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season. Lodges and campgrounds within the park can fill up months ahead, particularly in summer. Reservations for park lodges, such as Lake Crescent Lodge or Kalaloch Lodge, can typically be made up to a year in advance through authorized booking websites.
For campgrounds, some operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while others accept reservations through Recreation.gov. If you plan to camp in the backcountry, you’ll need to secure a wilderness permit, which can also be reserved in advance.
Peak Season Considerations
The busiest time to visit Olympic National Park is from late spring through early fall. Summer months offer the best weather, making them ideal for hiking and sightseeing, but they also bring large crowds. Accommodations both inside the park and in nearby towns like Port Angeles and Forks are in high demand.
If you’re visiting during peak season, consider staying in less crowded areas, such as the Hood Canal or Lake Quinault regions. Alternatively, visiting in the shoulder seasons—spring and fall—can provide a quieter experience, with fewer visitors and more availability in lodges and campgrounds.
Accessibility Information
Olympic National Park offers a range of accommodations for visitors with mobility challenges. Some lodges, such as Kalaloch Lodge and Lake Crescent Lodge, have accessible rooms and cabins. Many campgrounds also provide accessible sites, though availability may be limited.
For those exploring the park, several trails, including the Hall of Mosses in the Hoh Rain Forest and the Madison Falls Trail, are wheelchair accessible. Visitors needing special accommodations should check with individual lodging providers and the National Park Service for detailed accessibility information before booking.
By choosing the right base, you can maximize your time in Olympic National Park for unforgettable outdoor adventures. Whether staying in a cozy lodge, a beachfront cabin, or a scenic campsite, the ideal accommodation is waiting to enhance your experience.