3 Magical Spots You Didn’t Know Existed in Olympic National Park

At nearly 1 million acres, there’s no doubt you can come across some hidden spots in Olympic National Park. This bucket-list-worthy national park in Washington State is unique in that it features various ecosystems—mountains, rainforests, coastline, etc.—which attract millions of people every single year. While its large size makes it easy to spread out and get away from the crowds, it also makes it hard to know what destinations are worth your time. While spots like the Hoh Rain Forest, Hurricane Ridge, and Ruby Beach are quite popular with tourists, there are a few lesser-known attractions in Olympic National Park that I find magical and worth a spot on any traveler's itinerary.

Hidden Spots You Didn’t Know Existed in Olympic National Park

Quiet Hiking Trails

There are more than 600 miles of hiking trails in Olympic National Park, and you can find a trail for every type of hiker. But if you are like me and simply want to enjoy a day by yourself in nature, there are a few less-trafficked trails to consider. For example, the Queets River Trailhead is actually the beginning of two trails: Sam’s River Loop and the Queets River Trail. The Sam’s River Loop is approximately 2.8 miles, flat, and family-friendly. It’s one of the most scenic trails in Olympic National Park, as you’ll hike next to the river, through the rainforest, and cross over streams. The Queets River Trail is more than 16 miles and is best for expert hikers as you will need to ford a river, and there are some inclines to conquer. It’s a trek that will take all day, but the views are incredible.

Other secret trails in Olympic National Park where you likely won’t see large crowds, include Lovers Lane Loop Trail, Pyramid Peak Trail, and the Mink Lake Trail.

Remote Rainforests

While thousands of individuals explore the Hoh Rain Forest each year, other rainforests within the park offer a much quieter experience. The Queets Rainforest, for example, is one of the most remote and least visited rainforests in the park. It is home to several trails and a lot of rain (this rainforest receives more than 140 inches of rain each year). However, to explore this area of the park, come prepared for rough roads.

The Quinault Rain Forest is a neighbor to the Hoh Rain Forest, but is a much quieter alternative. While you will still find some popular attractions in this area, there are also lesser-known gems, including several easy, short trails, record-size trees, and the Quinault Loop Drive, a scenic drive where you can take your time and simply admire the natural beauty of this unique destination.  

Lesser-known Historic Sites

There are more than 650 archaeological sites within the park, some that take visitors back more than 13,000 years. Some of these sites are found at the end of a short hike, like the Ancient Groves Trail, highlighting an old-growth forest, or the Kestner Homestead, which highlights a preserved 20th-century homestead in the rainforest. We also recommend visiting sites like Glines Canyon, which gives you a glimpse of a massive river restoration project, or one of the many museums and cultural centers in the region.

Tips for Exploring Olympic National Park Beyond the Crowds

Yes, many of the most popular attractions within this Washington park will come with crowds, but that doesn’t mean you can’t plan accordingly for a quieter, more relaxed adventure. While late summer is one of the best times to visit Olympic National Park due to drier weather, we recommend exploring in early fall when many families have gone back to school, and the weather is still quite pleasant. Even if you visit during the peak season, begin your day early and visit on weekdays to reduce traffic.

Olympic National Park is much more than its famous attractions—it is filled with secret places that ignite a sense of adventure and discovery. No matter where you explore in this PNW park, always respect the land and wildlife you come across. If you are planning an upcoming visit and searching for things to do in Olympic National Park, visit the National Park Service website before you go. From its breathtaking coastline and lush rainforests to its alpine landscapes, this Washington park is packed with hidden gems just waiting to be explored.