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Tourist places in Olympic National Park

Friday, 02 May 2008
Photo Gallery \| Hotels \| View Map History of Olympic National Park The Olympic National Park lies on the Olympic Peninsula in the north-west of Washington State, which is bounded on the west by the Pacific, on the north by the Strait of Juan de Fuca (the Canadian frontier) and on the east by Puget Sound. On the peninsula is the largest and finest expanse of temperate rain forest in the western hemisphere, declared a National Monument in 1909. The Olympic National Park is one of most visited National Parks in the United States, drawing over 3-1/2 million visitors a year. Within a relatively small area, between sea level and the summit of Mount Olympus (7965 ft), it contains a wide range of different landscapes, the main types of which are covered in the sites described below The Olympic Mountains, lying in the centre of an area shaped by the encounter of two plates in the process of continental drift, are a geologically young and much folded range. The mountains are deeply fissured, with a complex system of steep valleys. The rocks are mainly marine sediments, with some volcanic intrusions (e.g. cushion lava). There are some 60 glaciers and numerous snowfields. Moraines, travelled granite blocks from Canada, corries, corrie lakes and U-shape valleys give evidence of strong local glaciation and of the advance of glaciers from the north during the Ice Age. There are still about 60 glaciers and numerous snowfields. Above the tree line is a region of alpine meadows with colourful mountain flowers. Information The National Park is open all year round; the Visitor Center for the Olympics is in Port Angeles, and the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center is at Forks. There is also a hotel on the U.S. 101; otherwise there are campsites scattered over the region, some of which can be used free of charge. It is strictly forbidden to walk on the Alpine meadows. The ascent of the highest mountains is recommended only for the most experienced climbers with proper equipment. Rainwear and good boots are also essential for hikers. Tourist Attractions in Olympic National Park Hoh Rain Forest The great attraction of the National Park is the magnificent expanse of rain forest one of the last surviving areas of rain forest in the temperate zone in the west-facing valleys of the Quinault, Queens and Hoh Rivers. The Hoh Rain Forest, 90 mi. from Port Angeles, caters for visitors with its three nature trails, including the very impressive Hall of Mosses Trail. The road up the Hoh valley and then over the Blue Glacier is the most favoured route for the ascent of Mount Olympus. The coastal strip is a region of sandy beaches, cliffs rising sheer out of the sea, rock arches, accumulations of driftwood and forests reaching right down to the shore. The northern part of the area is accessible only on side roads branching off U.S. 101; the southern third is traversed by the Scenic Drive between Ruby Beach and Queets. The sea is not particularly inviting for bathers, since the cold current flowing here keeps the water temperature low. When walking on the numerous promontories visitors must keep a watchful eye on the tides. Among the many species of birds to be seen here is the white-headed sea eagle. Seals are common; and sometimes grey whales can be seen swimming past in spring and autumn. Hurricane Ridge A 20 mi. long scenic road runs up to Hurricane Ridge Lodge (alt. 5200 ft; no overnight accommodation), from which there are magnificent views of the glacier-covered mountains of the Olympic range and over the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Vancouver Island in Canada. Olympic Peninsula Scenic Drive A good starting point for a motor tour of the park is the little harbour town of Port Angeles. The park is divided up into a narrow coastal strip 50 mi. long on the Pacific, and the main central area. The latter, with the adjoining National Forests to the west, north and east, is encircled by the 330 mi. long Olympic Peninsula Scenic Drive (US 101), from which side roads, partly asphalted, lead off into the central area, or towards the coast. Lake Crescent The U.S. 101 passes by Lake Crescent, a delightful mountain lake, 20 mi. west of Port Angeles. A road runs along the south side of the lake to the Marymere Falls, which plunge down from a height of 90 ft. 2 mi. further on, a 12 mi. long side road branches off to Sol Duc Hot Springs, where visitors can bathe in the hot springs. Sappho - Soleduck Hatchery Interpretive Center Sappho is located at the northwestern corner of Olympic National Park. If you are passing through this area one of the attractions worth visiting is the Soleduck Hatchery Interpretive Center. Sol Duc Hot Springs The Sol Duc Hot Springs are located on the Olympic Peninsula. The Sol Duc Hot Springs resort features modern pools and simple cabins next to a scenic river if guests wish to spend a night. Visitors can also come for just a swim in the pools. Best Buying Olympic National Park I can't say enough about the beauty of the Olympic Peninsula and Olympic National Park. This is truly a wonderful place to get away from it all and have some refreshing peace and quiet and clean air. You won't find any big city rush and hubbub around. Photo Gallery \| Hotels \| View Map

Last Updated ( Friday, 02 May 2008 )