Washington state’s spectacular Olympic National Park offers a wealth of affordable family adventures. If you’re heading to this magnificent park that’s home to one of the only temperate rain forests in the northern hemisphere, here are the top five activities that are sure to keep both adults and kids smiling.
Short Hikes
If you thought hiking might be too tough for the little ones, this park offers a number of short trails that are fairly flat and easy for kids of all ages and even older adults who may not have the energy they used to. The minimal effort brings a wealth of rewards.
Marymere Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls I’ve ever seen, and the hike from Storm King Visitor Center at Lake Crescent is just 0.8 of a mile through the canopy of the rainforest. The towering falls drop almost 90 feet from the cliff and plunge into a pool below, presenting an ideal photo opportunity.
The Sol Duc Falls hike is another easy 0.8-mile trek that follows Sol Duc River through the rainforest and culminates at breathtaking Sol Duc Falls, incredibly beautiful year-round.
For an even shorter hike, take the Ancient Groves Nature trail that winds for a tranquil 0.5-mile walk through old-growth forests and provides magnificent views of the Sol Duc River.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
After your hike, take the kids to Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, where the whole family can enjoy a dip in the Mineral Hot Spring soaking pools. Little ones from ages 1-3 can enjoy the small wading pool for free.
Wildlife at Hurricane Ridge
A scenic drive up to Hurricane Ridge, the most easily accessed mountain area in the park, provides views of gorgeous meadows filled with wildflowers and offers the best opportunity to spot a wide variety of wildlife. This area is home to mountain goats, black-tailed deer, marmots, and even the elusive bobcat.
Lake Crescent
Lake Crescent is a deep emerald lake filled with pristine waters that were carved from glaciers centuries ago. Log Cabin Resort, set on the edge of this tranquil lake, makes a perfect base camp for families exploring the park, with accommodations from rustic cabins to deluxe waterfront chalets.
Kids will love the pedal boats offered for rent here; row boats, hydro bikes, kayaks, and canoes are also available.
Olympic National Park not only has some of the most majestic mountain scenery — visitors can also enjoy several beaches. Both Rialto and Mora Beach are located just 36 miles west of Lake Crescent, and here, both kids and adults will enjoy combing the beach for shells, unique pieces of driftwood, and even beautifully colored pebbles.
K.C. Dermody is a freelance writer and a Featured Contributor for Travel. She has traveled to nearly all 50 states and many countries worldwide and has a passion for imparting what she has learned from her experiences to others.
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