If jaw-dropping scenery, epic adventures, and relaxing getaways are on your summer agenda, there’s no better place to go than the Olympic National Park. Towering peaks, mossy rainforests, rugged coastline, and alpine meadows all come together in one diverse and awe-inspiring landscape. Although there are really four seasons of reasons to visit, summer also happens to be the best time to visit Olympic National Park. The days are long, the skies are often clear, and most of the park’s iconic sites are fully accessible. From hiking mountain trails to strolling tidepools at sunset, the summer months open up the full range of things to do in Olympic National Park.
Located in the far northwest corner of the continental United States, this Pacific Northwest gem offers a little something for every kind of traveler. You’ll find this gem of a National Park in the heart of the Olympic Peninsula, tucked between the Pacific Ocean and the Puget Sound, with entrances spread across the region from Port Angeles to Hoodsport. With three distinct ecosystems packed into one park, you won’t run out of ways to explore.
Take in panoramic views of snowcapped peaks and wildflower-covered meadows from Hurricane Ridge, or, down at sea level, enjoy an entirely different experience at the Pacific Coast. Visit Rialto Beach or Ruby Beach for otherworldly sea stacks and dramatic sunsets, and keep an eye out for bald eagles and tidepool creatures like starfish and anemones. Over in the Hoh Rain Forest, a walk along the Hall of Mosses Trail offers a cool, shaded adventure beneath towering Sitka spruce and ancient ferns.
For water lovers, summer is the time to paddle Lake Crescent, stroll along the Sol Duc River, or take a soak in the Sol Duc Hot Springs. The rivers are flowing, the lakes are calm, and the weather makes it easy to spend full days outdoors. No wonder it’s the best time to visit Olympic National Park! With so much to explore, you’ll want a home base that matches the magic of the park.
Our collection of elevated vacation rentals puts you close to multiple Olympic National Park entrances, so you can easily access the sights you came to see without sacrificing comfort or style. Each of our Olympic National Park lodging properties is thoughtfully designed, offering a curated mix of comfort, convenience, and character. Whether you’re looking for a modern retreat tucked into the trees or a peaceful waterfront home and gorgeous mountain views, you’ll find the perfect place to stay near Olympic National Park. Book your trip now, and enjoy a front-row seat to nature at its finest.
Best Time to Visit Olympic National Park
If you’re planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest, summer is without question the best time to visit Olympic National Park. From late June through September, the weather is generally dry and mild, which makes it ideal for hiking, biking, and beach days. The park’s higher elevations, like Hurricane Ridge, are clear of snow and wide open for exploration. Coastal trails are easier to navigate, and alpine meadows are in full bloom. Whether you’re heading into the rainforest, climbing a ridgeline, or just looking to relax along the coast, summer is, without a doubt, the best time to visit Olympic National Park if you have these highlights on your list.
During the summer, outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse range of terrain and climate zones available in one epic, adventure-filled trip. Start your morning in the cool shade of the Hoh Rain Forest, and spend golden hour walking the driftwood-strewn shores of Ruby Beach. For a mountain-based adventure, you can climb into the sunshine at Hurricane Hill by lunch. For cyclists, sections of the Olympic Discovery Trail offer a scenic way to explore the Olympic Peninsula on two wheels. Biking routes pass through forest, farmland, and along coastal cliffs, all with views that stop you in your tracks.
There really are endless things to do in Olympic National Park in the summer. The main attractions are easily accessible, ranger programs are in full swing, and the park’s popular scenic drives are more accessible than in other seasons. It’s a time when the whole park feels alive. That said, autumn brings its own kind of magic and, for some, may represent the best time to visit Olympic National Park.
While you may trade sunny skies for misty mornings, Olympic Park, Washington, takes on a moody and atmospheric charm in the autumn months. Fall is also a quieter season, with fewer visitors and vibrant foliage that lights up the lowland forests. Fewer visitors alone is why some people call the shoulder seasons the best time to visit Olympic National Park, especially if you’re looking for a slower, more reflective experience in nature.
No matter when you visit, understanding the Olympic National Park entrances, trail conditions, attractions, and lodging options can make all the difference. When you book one of our nearby vacation rental properties, you’ll be well-positioned to explore in any season.
The Best Places to Stay Near Olympic National Park
After a full day of hiking mountain trails, walking driftwood beaches, or exploring hidden waterfalls, where you stay matters just as much as where you play. If you’re looking for lodging near Olympic National Park that goes beyond the basics, the vacation rentals offered by Travel Experience Lodging deliver comfort, design, and a deep connection to the beauty of the region. These properties are more than just a place to sleep, though. Each one has been thoughtfully curated to reflect the natural surroundings of the Olympic Peninsula, giving guests an immersive and elevated experience.
Whether you want a waterfront retreat with sweeping views or a secluded home tucked into the forest, our vacation rentals are positioned in ideal locations near popular Olympic National Park entrances and popular attractions. You’ll find modern amenities, stylish interiors that have been thoughtfully curated over the years, and the kind of privacy and comfort that make you feel at home the moment you arrive. Some properties feature hot tubs, chef-style kitchens, and oversized decks perfect for watching the sun dip behind the trees or mountains. We also offer a range of family-friendly and pet-friendly accommodations, and have a property to suit every type of traveler.
There’s no doubt that a stay at one of our Olympic National Park lodging properties will enhance every moment of your visit. Choosing the right home base makes all the difference. From hiking and biking in summer to soaking in the drama of fall, there’s no better way to experience the area than returning each night to a place that feels as special as the park itself. Thoughtfully designed, beautifully located, and built for travelers who appreciate the details, these rentals are unbeatable. Book your stay, and enjoy the best time to visit Olympic National Park with us this summer!