Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park Weekend: Rainforest, Peaks & Coast
Three unforgettable days of rainforest, ridgelines, lakes and coast
Planning a trip to Olympic National Park?
Spend a long weekend exploring Olympic National Park’s greatest hits: moss-draped rainforests, glassy mountain lakes, and wild Pacific beaches. This smart-value itinerary bases you around Port Angeles and the park’s lodges for easy access to Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent, the Hoh Rain Forest, and iconic coastal stops.
Highlights
Soak up sweeping mountain panoramas and classic Olympic alpine scenery from an easily accessible ridge drive.
Enjoy luminous blue waters, lakeside trails, and historic lodge charm at one of the park’s signature lakes.
Walk beneath towering moss-covered trees in one of North America’s most famous temperate rainforests.
Explore sea stacks, driftwood-strewn shores, and tidepools at beaches like Ruby or Rialto.
Unwind in developed mineral pools surrounded by forest at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort.
Sample local seafood and craft drinks in laid-back Olympic Peninsula towns like Port Angeles.
Where to Stay
Lake Crescent Lodge
Historic lakeside lodge with cozy rooms and cabins right on the shore of Lake Crescent, offering direct access to trails and water activities.
$250-350/night
Super 8 by Wyndham Port Angeles at Olympic National Park
Mid-range motel on the edge of Port Angeles offering clean, simple rooms and easy driving access to the park entrance and Hurricane Ridge Road.
$120-180/nightGood to Know
Plan Your Driving Loop
Distances between Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent, Hoh Rain Forest, and Rialto Beach are substantial; build in drive time and avoid trying to see everything in one day.
Start Early for Parking
Popular areas like Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rain Forest, and coastal trailheads can have limited parking that fills by late morning in busy seasons.
Check Weather and Road Alerts
Mountain roads, trails, and facilities can close or have limited hours due to storms, snow, or repairs; confirm conditions on the park website or at a visitor center.
Pack Layers and Rain Gear
Weather can shift from sun at the coast to rain in the rainforest and wind on ridges in a single day; a waterproof shell and warm mid-layer are essential.
Respect Wildlife and Tide Safety
Maintain distance from elk, deer, and marine life, and know tide times before exploring coastal areas like Rialto Beach’s Hole-in-the-Wall.
Your Weekend Itinerary
First Street Haven
Cozy, local favorite breakfast spot known for generous portions, coffee, and classic American breakfast plates.
1h · $15-25 per person
Olympic National Park Visitor Center
Main park visitor center near Port Angeles where you can get trail maps, current conditions, ranger advice, and exhibits about the park.
45m · Free (with park entry pass)
Hurricane Ridge Road and Viewpoints
Scenic mountain drive from Port Angeles to high alpine meadows and viewpoints of Mount Olympus and the surrounding range.
2h · Included with park entry
Hurricane Ridge Trails (short walks)
Easy walking paths and short trails near the Hurricane Ridge parking area, with interpretive signs and sweeping views.
1h 30m · Included with park entry
Sabai Thai
Popular Thai restaurant offering curries, noodle dishes, and stir-fries in a warm, inviting space.
1h · $18-30 per person
Kokopelli Grill
Sit-down restaurant known for Pacific Northwest seafood, steaks, and Southwestern-inspired flavors.
1h 30m · $25-40 per person
Lake Crescent
Glacially carved, deep-blue lake west of Port Angeles with lakeside trails, picnic spots, and boat rentals near Lake Crescent Lodge.
2h 30m · Free (boat rentals extra)
Marymere Falls Trail
Gentle forest trail from near Lake Crescent Lodge leading to a picturesque waterfall through mossy, old-growth woods.
1h 30m · Included with park entry
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Developed hot springs facility with soaking pools, surrounded by forest in the Sol Duc Valley within the park.
2h · $20-30 per person for pool access (approx.)
Spruce
Modern American brewpub-style restaurant and bar offering creative small plates, burgers, and craft drinks.
1h 30m · $22-35 per person14 activities across 3 days
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