Washington has some beautiful scenic byways, but many of them are seasonal drives. The North Cascades and Chinook Pass, for example, tend to be especially treacherous in the winter. There are few places you can go in the state where your road trip won’t be impacted by the water, but the Olympic Peninsula Highway 101 loop is definitely one of them.

Not all of Olympic National Park’s attractions are open year-round, but the majority of the Peninsula is accessible all winter. If you’re suffering from a case of cabin fever, here’s how to cure it.

While you could complete this loop in a weekend, we recommend spending a few extra days enjoying the drive if you can.
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No matter what time of year it is, there's plenty to experience on this loop around Highway 101.
The Olympic Peninsula is home to the longest natural sand spit in North America, the Dungeness Spit.
amidfallenleaves / Flickr
Located just north of Sequim, it offers breathtaking views and plenty of wildlife.
Lake Crescent is always a pleasant place to stop for awhile and enjoy the cool, calm waters.
William Cooper / Flickr
The 12-mile lake sits in between a pair of breathtaking lodges, surrounded by majestic mountains and tall trees. This is definitely one of the most iconic places in Olympic National Park.
Of course, you can't take a trip around the peninsula without stopping in Forks and heading to La Push.
Udo S / Flickr
Twilight fan or not, this area is both charming and perfectly peaceful.
Veer off the highway just a bit and you'll reach the Hoh Rain Forest, which is accessible any time of year.
Aryeh Alex / Flickr
The short, easy Trail of the Cedars is a great way to experience the area. Winters are fairly mild, and there's even a campground here that stays open all year.
No matter what time of year you visit Ruby Beach, you should stay for the sunset—especially if the sun comes out first.
Diana Robinson / Flickr
Breathtaking doesn't even begin to describe it.
Lake Quinalt is bordered by another rain forest, Quinalt Rain Forest.
Mer / Flickr
It's not as expansive as the Hoh, but it's definitely worth exploring.

Do you have a favorite spot in Olympic National Park? Have you ever been in the winter?

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Featured Addresses
Olympic National Park, 3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA