Looking for the best trails for hiking Olympic National Park? You’re in the right place. This guide covers 17 top-rated trails across mountains, rainforests, and coastline.
I’ve researched each path to help you pick the right hike for your skill level. You’ll learn about trail difficulty, the best seasons to visit, and what gear you need.
From waterfalls to ocean views, the Olympics has something for everyone.This isn’t just another trail list. You’ll get distance, elevation gain, and insider tips for each hike.
The park has over 600 miles of trails, and this guide simplifies your planning. Let’s find your perfect trail.
Why Olympic National Park Is One of America’s Best Hiking Destinations
Olympic National Park offers diverse ecosystems including mountains, temperate rainforest, and rugged coastline all in one location.
Olympic National Park stands out for good reason. You can hike through moss-covered rainforests in the morning and walk along the Pacific coast by afternoon.
The park features over 600 miles of trails.Some trails take you to alpine meadows with mountain views. Others wind through the wettest forests in the continental United States.
Coastal paths reveal tide pools and sea stacks.Day hikers find plenty of short, rewarding trails. Backpackers can plan multi-day trips deep into the wilderness.
Trail types range from flat, paved walks to steep mountain climbs. Families with kids can enjoy easy nature loops. Experienced hikers tackle challenging peaks.
The variety means you can visit multiple times and have completely different experiences each trip.
Top 17 Hiking Olympic National Park Trails
From easy rainforest walks to challenging mountain climbs, these 17 trails showcase the best hiking Olympic National Park has to offer.
1. Hurricane Hill Trail
This popular moderate hike climbs through wildflower meadows to panoramic 360-degree views of Mount Olympus, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Vancouver Island.
The paved path makes it family-friendly, with opportunities to spot deer and marmots. Best visited June through October, with peak wildflowers in July and August.
2. Mount Storm King Trail
A strenuous climb with steep, exposed sections and rope assists leading to dramatic views 2,000 feet above turquoise Lake Crescent.
Many hikers turn around at the first viewpoint (2 miles) to avoid the most challenging final section. Not recommended in wet conditions or for those with fear of heights.
3. Marymere Falls Trail
An easy family loop through moss-draped old-growth forest to a perfect 90-foot waterfall cascading into a fern-lined grotto. Well-maintained with interpretive signs, hikeable year-round.
Spring offers the highest water flow, while the gentle grade makes it accessible for all skill levels.
4. Sol Duc Falls Trail
A gentle walk through lush rainforest to a dramatic three-pronged waterfall viewed from a bridge directly overhead.
The powerful cascade splits through a narrow canyon with impressive force. Visit early or late to avoid crowds at this popular destination near Sol Duc Hot Springs.
5. Hall of Mosses Trail
A magical short loop through quintessential Hoh Rainforest featuring massive bigleaf maples draped with club moss and 500-year-old Sitka spruce.
The enchanting, otherworldly atmosphere makes this one of the park’s most photographed trails. Accessible year-round with minimal lifts gain.
6. Hoh River Trail to Mineral Creek Falls
A moderate rainforest hike along the milky Hoh River through groves of massive Sitka spruce. Elk frequent the valley, especially mornings.
The trail ends at a misty waterfall tumbling through a narrow canyon. Hikeable year-round with relatively flat terrain.
7. Ruby Beach Trail
A short steep descent to one of the coast’s most photogenic beaches featuring dramatic sea stacks, colorful tide pools, and silver driftwood.
Named for ruby-like sand crystals. Low tide is best for visiting. Sunset provides spectacular photography opportunities along this wild coastline.
8. Second Beach Trail (La Push)
An easy forest trail descends to a pristine wild beach with massive sea stacks and extensive tide pools. A dramatic sea arch anchors the southern end.
Popular for both day hikes and overnight camping. Best tide pool exploration at low tide with spectacular sunset views.
9. Third Beach Trail
A more remote alternative to Second Beach, descending through coastal forest to a crescent beach with the dramatic Giants Graveyard sea stacks offshore.
Popular with backpackers. Low tide reveals tide pools and access to secret coves and sea caves for additional exploration.
10. Hole-in-the-Wall from Rialto Beach
An easy beach walk to a natural rock arch accessible only at low tide timing is crucial. The route passes sea stacks and abundant tide pools with starfish and anemones.
Classic wild Pacific Northwest coastline with constant wave action and offshore rock formations.
11. Devil’s Punchbowl via Spruce Railroad Trail
A flat historic railroad trail along Lake Crescent’s north shore leading to a collapsed sea cave filled with turquoise water.
The route passes through tunnels and offers stunning lake views. The punchbowl’s vibrant color is most impressive on sunny days.
12. Spruce Railroad Trail
An easy 8-mile lakeside trail following an abandoned 1918 railroad grade with minimal elevation change. Features historic tunnels, stunning turquoise lake views, and swimming access.
Perfect for families and trail runners. Hikeable as any length out-and-back or point-to-point with shuttle.
13. Lake Angeles Trail
A challenging climb gaining 2,300 feet to a pristine alpine lake in a cirque beneath Klahhane Ridge.
Switchbacks lead through forest to meadows with mountain goat sightings possible. Peak wildflowers in late July-August. Snow lingers into July. Bring plenty of water.
14. Pyramid Peak Trail
One of Olympic’s most demanding day hikes, climbing 2,400 feet with final scrambling over talus to panoramic summit views.
Vistas extend from the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Mount Rainier on clear days. Best July-September. Exposure unsuitable for those uncomfortable with heights. Start early.
15. Maple Glade Rainforest Trail
A peaceful wheelchair-accessible loop through moss-draped bigleaf maple groves in the Quinault Rainforest. Interpretive signs explain the ecosystem.
Perfect for families and those with limited mobility. Sees fewer crowds than famous rainforest trails. Most vibrant after rain.
16. Rocky Brook Falls Trail
A short, easy trail to an impressive 230-foot cascading waterfall in the park’s drier eastern section. Best in spring when snowmelt increases flow.
Remains quieter than more famous destinations with limited facilities. Ideal for a quick nature outing or Dosewallips area exploration.
17. Striped Peak Trail
A grueling 10-mile climb gaining 3,600 feet to a former fire lookout with sweeping Olympic Mountain views. Wildflower meadows peak in late July, clearest skies in September.
Remote location and difficulty ensure solitude. Snow lingers into mid-summer. Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
Tips for Hiking Olympic National Park
Stay safe and protect the wilderness with these key guidelines.
- Pack the ten items – Map and compass, sun protection, extra layers, headlamp with batteries, first aid kit, fire starter, repair kit, extra food and water, purification method, and emergency shelter. These can save your life.
- Follow Leave No Trace – Pack out everything including food scraps and toilet paper. Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion. Camp 200 feet from water sources. Never feed wildlife. Leave natural features undisturbed.
- Practice wildlife safety – Bears, cougars, and elk live in the Olympics. Make noise while hiking. Keep food in bear canisters in the backcountry. Give animals space and use binoculars for viewing.
- Treat all water – Even clear streams can carry parasites. Filter, boil, or use purification tablets before drinking any water from the park.
- Download offline maps – Save trail maps on AllTrails, Gaia GPS, or the National Park Service app before you go. Carry a paper map as backup. Cell service is limited throughout the park.
Conclusion
Olympic National Park gave me some of my best hiking memories. The moss-draped rainforest trails feel like stepping into another world.
I still think about that first sunrise I caught from Hurricane Hill. You have 17 great trails to choose from now. Start with an easy one if you’re new to hiking.
Work your way up to the tougher peaks. Check conditions before you go, pack the right gear, and respect the wilderness.
Share your favorite trail in the comments below. I’d love to hear which hike becomes your favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need to hike Olympic National Park?
Plan at least 3-4 days to see different areas of the park. You can visit the rainforest, mountains, and coast at that time. Serious hikers often spend a week or more.
Are dogs allowed on hiking trails?
Dogs are not allowed on most trails in Olympic National Park. Pets are only permitted in campgrounds, parking areas, and on the Spruce Railroad Trail. This protects wildlife.
Do I need a permit for day hikes?
No permit is needed for day hiking. You only need to pay the park entrance fee. Overnight backpacking trips require a wilderness camping permit that you get from ranger stations.
Is hiking Olympic National Park good for beginners?
Yes, the park has many beginner-friendly trails. Hall of Mosses, Marymere Falls, and Ruby Beach are all easy options. Start with short trails and build up your skills and confidence.
What should I wear for hiking in Olympic National Park?
Dress in layers you can add or remove. Bring a waterproof rain jacket even in summer. Wear sturdy shoes with good traction. The weather changes fast, so prepare for rain and sun.
