Getting Wet in Olympic National Park
Updated: May 20
Olympic National Park offers an incredible diversity of ecosystems. Immerse yourself in the lush rainforest, which is one of the wettest places in the lower 48 states. We got to hike to Sol Doc Falls, experience the Salmon Cascades, and even visit Old Victoria in Canada. Visiting the Ancient Groves in the rainforest is something we'll never forget. We stayed at Sol Duc campground, loop A site 011, which provided the perfect home base for our adventures in Olympic National Park. Follow our journey and get inspired to explore the natural wonders of this breathtaking location. This was the 3rd stop on this road trip. Do you want to see the start? Go here
Olympic Peninsula Olympic NP
Travel Guide Trail Guide
Calling it a rainforest was an understatement - the Ancient Groves area was a mystical wonderland. With streams, ferns, and trees covered in beard moss (which is actually lichen!), the sight was breathtaking. We embraced the rainy weather with our trusty rain gear, including a simple rain cover for the camera, and captured some unforgettable shots during our 3-day stay at a primitive site.
It was beautiful. There are some nice viewpoints of the Salmon Cascades on the Sol Duc River. Although the salmon weren't running when we were there, I can just imagine the raw determination to get up this roaring cascade of water.
The Sol Duc Falls hike in Olympic National Park is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The 1.6-mile trail meanders through a lush forest and offers stunning views of the Sol Duc River, which eventually leads to the majestic Sol Duc Falls. The falls cascade 48 feet into a serene pool, surrounded by verdant greenery and the sound of rushing water. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all skill levels, making it a great option for a family-friendly day trip. Visitors can also opt to extend their hike by continuing on to explore the stunning alpine lakes in the surrounding area, providing an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Victoria, Canada, is a great destination for a day trip. We drove to Port Angeles and took the ferry, leaving our car behind. To make the most of our time, we opted for the Big Red Bus Tour, which covered all the major tourist sites in just 4 hours. We even had time for some souvenir shopping before heading back on the ferry.
If you haven’t been to Canada since Covid things have changed. Now you have to do some research & go online to fill out a form before you try to enter or you might not get in. We weren’t aware of the changes and on a recent trip to International Falls Minn. We found out the hard way.
Before leaving Olympic and heading east we stopped at some friends in Everson, Washington to visit. There were a lot of barns, some functional and some definitely not. They made for some interesting drives around the area. They also had a pair of bald eagles that hung out in the area.
In conclusion, Olympic National Park is truly a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and the outdoors. With its diverse ecosystems and breathtaking natural wonders, it offers something for everyone, from the temperate rainforest to the rugged coastline and majestic mountains. Despite the long drive required to get there, the park's beauty and serenity make it well worth the effort. Our personal highlights included exploring the Ancient Groves, witnessing the Salmon Cascades, and hiking to the Sol Duc Falls. We hope our journey has inspired you to plan your own adventure in Olympic National Park and discover its ecological wonders for yourself.
What are some must-see attractions and activities at Yellowstone NP? Go to the next leg of our journey.
Lorna’s Tips and Lessons
Don’t let the rain keep you indoors. This beautiful National park averages 149 rainfall days a year. The smell of rain in a forest is amazing and hikes in the rain can be wonderful if you are dressed properly. We like having packable rain gear that we can pull out when needed. Make sure that your pants have zippers and room to go over your hiking boots without taking them off. Also, get large enough to layer underneath depending on how cold it is.