Olympic National Park Tour: Self-Guided Drive

Welcome to the Olympic National Park Tour

Where but Olympic National Park can you find beaches, mountains, and rainforest all in one place? This self-guided tour takes you through the most beautiful sites in this one-of-a-kind park. Cruise along the shores of a glacial lake, embark on hikes through lush old-growth forests, and take in views from lofty mountain vistas—all while hearing about the fascinating history of this landscape! Also included are bonus tours of Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest, and coastal beaches.

About the Tour

Your tour of Olympic National Park will begin at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center. From here, you’ll drive through the town of Port Angeles and out toward the most popular parts of the park. As you drive, you’ll hear about how this landscape formed, the early human inhabitants of the area, and what it took to turn it into a national park.

Then you’ll come to the Elwha River Observation Area, offering stupendous views of the park’s most powerful river. This spot also offers a detour to a hiking trail leading to Madison Falls. This boardwalk trail, which ends with a sparkling waterfall, is totally accessible!

Continuing along the main route, you’ll learn about the dams that once stopped up the river and the huge impact this had on the ecosystem. Then you’ll pass Lake Sutherland, a picturesque glacial lake surrounded by summer cottages and vacation homes; after that is the much larger Lake Crescent. Though beautiful, this lake has some dark stories in its past, all of which you’ll hear as you cruise along the waterfront.

At Lake Crescent Viewpoint, up next, you’ll have the opportunity to snap jealousy-inducing photos of this picture-perfect lake. Beyond that, you’ll see Marymere Falls Trail, a short hike through old growth forest which ends with a 90-foot waterfall.

Ready for a break? You’ll find the perfect spot for it at La Poel, a picnic area on the edge of Lake Crescent.

Then you’ll head to Sol Duc Valley, one of the park’s most iconic landscapes. This valley features ancient forests, mountain views, and plenty of can’t-miss sights. You’ll pass the Salmon Cascades next. If you’re visiting in September, you can watch the famous salmon run from this spot!

Finally, you’ll arrive at the Sol Duc Falls Nature Trail, an easy but hugely rewarding hike through mossy, ancient groves. Your main tour concludes here, but if you want to keep the adventure going, you can boot up the bonus tour of Hurricane Ridge or Hoh Rainforest and the coastal beaches!