When planning a trip, it can be hard to choose between a relaxing beach vacation, a serene mountain escape, or an adventure through the forest. Luckily, Olympic National Park, set in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, contains the best of everything: misty coastline, lush temperate rainforests, quiet lakes, and majestic mountains. Seriously, there's something for everyone here! Plus, it's right by Seattle, making it a great day or weekend trip, or you can make the Emerald City your home base for exploring the Olympic Peninsula.
Port Orford, Oregon, United States
Rockaway Beach, Oregon, United States
Long Beach, Washington, United States
The best time to visit Olympic National Park: The three month dry spell between July and September brings in about 60% of the park's visitors, so come earlier in the summer to enjoy a slightly less crowded park, and the temperatures are usually mild, in the 70's. Winter means some snow and chilly temperatures, although some parts of the park are conducive to winter sports and others receive little snow. The spring is when the waterfalls are at their most impressive, but it also means quite a bit of rain, so if you visit early in the year be prepared to get a little wet.