Gorgeous views and wonderful drive to the top, lots of wildlife if you come up in the morning or late afternoon. Was sad to hear the visitors center burned down a couple years ago, but they have a little pop up if you want some swag. Decent trails in the area as well to help stretch your legs after a winding drive.

Hurricane Ridge has absolutely breathtaking views from mountain ranges to trails, beautiful skies and water! The views of the Olympic Mountains are stunning in every direction, and the drive up alone is worth the trip. Whether you visit in summer for hiking and wildflowers or in winter for snowshoeing and skiing, the scenery never disappoints. The air feels crisp and clean, and there’s something peaceful about being surrounded by such untouched natural beauty. The visitor center staff are helpful and friendly, offering great tips on trails and current conditions. Be sure to bring layers - the weather can change quickly at higher elevations. Overall, it’s one of the most beautiful spots in the Pacific Northwest and a must-see for anyone visiting Olympic National Park!!

10/10! Hurricane Ridge was straight up a painting! It was absolutely breathtaking! We did Hurricane Hill and it took us about 3 hours total but it was definitely worth it. Saw a couple of animals on the way and on the trail itself too! Highly recommend.

The views were great as you could see above the clouds at certain point. It is paved which was not expected. Busy trail but still great spot.

Beautiful hike and beautiful views, a climb for sure and it gets hot in the sun so we made sure to take enough water. The overlooks on the way up are beautiful too. Get your NP pass first and enjoy the creation!

A beautiful place with panoramic views of the mountains. We got to see some cloud inversions and it was magical. We also saw a lot of deers roaming around peacefully

Good paved trail. Great views. Show up early for decent parking. Bring bear spray for the mountain lions. Bring water.

We went during the shutdown and during a weekday and had no problem driving right up with minimal crowds. The hikes are all extremely easy and offer varied scenery. The hall of mosses is the most famous and easiest of the hikes. While it was great, we MUCH preferred the other hike (forgot the name but it was the middle distance (1.5 miles maybe?) because it offered by far the greatest variety of scenery. It has the massive redwoods, halls of moss, Star wars endor looking sets, a river, streams, and best of all, 4 giant elk which crossed directly in front of us.

We visited last June and waited about an hour to get in, but it was well worth it. The short hikes are great for kids. The Hall of Moses is stunning, and the Spruce Nature Trail is amazing with its beautiful trees and the river framed by distant mountains. It was such a beautiful day and perfect weather when we visited. Grabbed a cup Of coffee on our way out at Hard Rain Cafe, cute little store in the park. Definitely worth the trip from Oak Harbor.

I was not ready for this much beauty! I am still shocked with how amazing this area was. Even driving in we had to stop and grab some pics because it's just breath taking. The actual trail looks like something out of a book and not real. We walked on of the trails, took a small break to eat in the car because it was raining, and then took off again on the same trail because we loved it so much. I have been to several different rain forests, but this one is by far the most beautiful. By far!

Oct 11 - Park is open but visitor center is closed. Bathrooms closed by the visitor center but open in the camping area. We really love this National Park! The rainforest is so beautiful with its layers upon layers of growth. There are three parking lots so if the main one is full check the other two. The trails are quite easy and family friendly. Lots of photo opps! Enjoy 😊

Even more beautiful than the photos, really the kind of place you have to go experience firsthand. This rainforest is a truly unique ecosystem unlike anything else. Only had time to do the Hall of Mosses trail this time, which was great, but would love to come back and explore more!

If you are debating coming to the rainforest, stop, debating and go to the rainforest. It is one of a kind it lies along a beautiful river that has images similar to Alaska. As far as the rainforest, it is very moist everything is wet and beautiful green. Trails are not hard, but they are filled with wildlife and flora

Absolutely stunning. Went bright and early down the Trail of Mosses, sun was just peeking through the trees. Felt like such a magical place. Easy trails to navigate. Would definitely go back!

Such a beautiful and natural beach. We timed it for low tide so we could enjoy looking in the tidal pools. It’s a relatively short walk to the beach with some sand, tidal pools, stacks and driftwood. We arrived about 9:30 and there was plenty of parking. When we left around 12:30 people were waiting for cars to leave so they could park. When we drove by a couple of hours later after visiting another beach, there were a lot of cars parked all the way out the parking lot on the sides of 101.

This beach is pretty amazing. Drove 2.5 hours to catch sunset here and was not disappointed. Well worth it. Wish I would have got here sooner to enjoy it more, but it’s gorgeous.

Ruby Beach: Washington's Essential Coastal Gem ​Ruby Beach is an unforgettable destination, equally beautiful for a majestic solo visit or a fun-filled family adventure. The beach's dramatic shoreline, framed by immense sea stacks and piles of weathered driftwood, offers endless opportunities for exploration. ​It's a fantastic spot for families, especially during low tide. Children can spend hours happily searching the tide pools for vibrant sea creatures like anemones and sea stars, or safely playing in the shallow water where Cedar Creek meets the ocean. ​For your convenience, Ruby Beach is well-equipped with amenities. The parking area is sizable (though busy in summer), and clean, essential vault toilets are located right near the trailhead. The short, steep trail down to the beach is well worth the effort for the truly epic views awaiting you.

We were visiting Kaloloch area for a day trip from Port Angeles in September and dropped by this beautiful beach in the afternoon. The rock formations were spectacular and the piles of driftwoods gave it unique character. It was refreshing to walk along the beach.

Majestic and dramatic frame. The driftwood and the sea stack with the ocean and sunset makes it a unforgettable frame in mind Little hike down from the parking lot to the beach, could take close to 10 min

Ruby Beach is my absolute favorite ocean beach in Olympic National Park. The sunsets here are unreal — but honestly, it’s stunning in any weather, sunny or moody. The walk down is easy (about 7-10 minutes), and the beach is accessible at any tide. I love shooting here during low tide — the tide pools are beautiful and the reflections make for incredible photos! Parking can be tricky in summer, so come early morning or near sunset. I’m an elopement photographer and usually shoot around sunset and never had issues finding a spot. To reach the big rock formations, you’ll need to cross a small creek. Sometimes there are logs to walk on, but not always — so bring rain boots or go barefoot. It’s 100% worth it — the views on the other side are breathtaking!

Iconic Olympic Peninsula beach with tons to explore and only a short walk from the parking lot. Heads up though, it gets pretty busy in the summer on a sunny day.

Great, beautiful lake and a stunning setting. It’s perfect for a peaceful day outdoors, with plenty of scenery to take in. A note: the water is cold, so if you’re swimming, come prepared. Overall a wonderful spot for nature lovers and anyone looking to relax by a clear, picturesque lake.

Drove past the lake two times while visiting Olympic National Park. Today, the water was so calm, it looked like glass. So beautiful! Several pullouts along the lake. It’s huge so you get many miles to travel alongside it. Would be perfect for paddle boarding or kayaking. There are a couple beaches off of it as well.

I took Bus 14 at 7:45 AM from the Port Angeles gateway transit center to get to Lake Crescent. It took roughly half an hour to get to Hwy 101 At O.P.I. which is the stop at which I got down to walk to Lake Crescent. Bus 14 is the one that goes all the way to Forks, and it runs self regular intervals. There was a trail right at the bus stop, and I took it to complete a short hike which was a loop that eventually got me to Lake Crescent. I followed the trail that led to a creek, then continued and eventually went to Marymere falls! I then continued back to go to lake crescent. I loved that the trail goes under the road - that’s so cool! I saw a couple of deer grazing, and they were so cute!!!! I finally got to the lake and dipped my feet in the lake. I saw a photographer with a tripod taking photos of the lake. The day I was there, it was cloudy and drizzling and it did feel like vampires were around (twilight vibes through and through)! The lake was so beautiful - the shades of green and blue in the lake were simply breathtaking! I could spend the entire day just looking at its beauty and walking along the lake.

Lake Crescent is one of the most beautiful places in Olympic National Park with crystal clear turquoise water. Certainly it will leave breathtaking memories in heart for ever. From Port Angeles, drive on 101 West for 20 miles (heading towards Forks). It will take about less than 45 minutes. You may stay at west end of Lake Crescent, at the Fairholme campground. From the west end of Lake Crescent, the Hoh Rain Forest is must to visit and is about an hour drive. RVs can be accommodated. Clean restrooms are available. The lodge is located in a parking lot if you want to stay having dining available with bar and gift shop. Log cabin resort is also an option to stay.In lodge food is available, however having packed food with you is a good decision. Enjoy easier waterfall hike, Marymere Falls or a more challenging hike, Mount Storm King. You’ll find kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes for rent at Lake Crescent Lodge.

Stunning lake created by an ancient glacier and set against the background of Olympic hills and forests 🤩

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "Lake Crescent is absolutely breathtaking! The water shifts between crystal blue and emerald green, making it look like two lakes in one. Surrounded by Olympic National Park’s mountains and forests, it’s the perfect spot for hiking, kayaking, or just relaxing by the shore. Clean, peaceful, and truly one of Washington’s hidden gems. A must-visit if you’re in the area!

The beauty of Lake Crescent can't be described. You have to see it to appreciate the beauty. Whether you want to take a hiking trail to soak in the view from a vantage point or you wanna take a swimming/boating session, Lake Crescent is the place. The clear turquoise colored water seems like a fairly-tale place. I am definitely going to come here again if I visit Olympic.

This Beach is so amazing. I had so much fun. The 1st Time I was there it was foggy and could not see anything. But, my 2nd Time. I got to see everything. The Water, Scenery, Big Rocks In The Distance. And, so many more. I strongly recommend this place if you are looking to relax and just get your feet in the water without swimming. This place is for you. Bit Windy. But, not too bad at all. I would recommend visiting this place if you can.

Beach with rock formations up close giving it a mystical feel. We saw folks fishing here at the beach, it’s a dog friendly beach too. Great for family outings. It gets very misty and cloudy here.

Such a fun adventure and beautiful beach! The driftwood piles, evergreens near the beach, hole in the wall and tide pools made for a really great morning. We arrived about an hour before low tide early in the morning and found plenty of parking. Be sure to wear good treads if walking down to hole in the wall as the rocks are pretty slick. Very nice beach walk

Absolutely amazing. Would recommend to everyone. We walked a few miles up and down the beach enjoying all the sights.

Went 9/24/2025 and the weather was really nice and sunny. I actually wanted it to be a little foggy and gloomy to get that classic Washington vibe; like Twilight vibes 😂. Nonetheless the beach is very beautiful! It's literally right off the parking lot. Went on a Wednesday around 11:00am so there was plenty of parking. The tide was high so didn't get to see any marine life in the tide pools. Enjoyed my time here.

Visiting Rialto Beach in winter was a breathtaking experience. The dramatic coastline, with its towering sea stacks and driftwood-strewn shore, felt serene and almost otherworldly. The cold, crisp air and crashing waves added to the raw beauty of the place. Fewer crowds made it perfect for peaceful walks and photography. Don’t forget warm clothing—winter winds are strong—but the stunning views make it completely worth it. A must-visit for nature lovers and anyone seeking solitude by the ocean.

What a beautiful beach, with beechwood scattered along the shore and tall trees lining the coastline. The views are stunning throughout. You can enjoy a scenic 1.8-mile walk to Hole-in-the-Wall Beach, with fascinating tidepools. The sunsets here are truly worth staying for.

Absolutely beautiful! The roads up the mountains have a ton of pit holes though. Any fallen trees have already been cut so it’s maintained. The trails are nicely taken care of and easy to find hiking entrance’s.

They say the best things in life are free, and Olympic National Forest checks all those boxes. This place is a gift to our family and I love sharing it with everyone who comes to visit me, here in the Pacific Northwest. - Melanie Boling

I visited this place in the summer and winter. Both times were absolutely stunning. You can't get up front and person with it like you can with other nature areas in Washington, but it is still beautiful. I think my favourite part was taking a small hike to a high spot and looking down at the ocean. The massive ships look like flies which works well to show the size of the mountains. I tried to add some of my panoramas but they didn't get compressed well.

Hurricane Ridge is simply Spectacular! This is a must to see here in the PNW!

Mt. Townsend Trail #839 was incredible. 8 miles total and strenuous. First two miles are 20% ascending grade. Once we reached the top, we could see the entire cascade range as it was a clear day. 3 hours up, 1.5 hours down.

So many hiking trails for the beginner to the adventurous who seek something a little more challenging. I have been coming out here for many yrs and have yet to get bored or accomplished all I plan to. Whether you want to plan something for the day or a few more days added on plan a trip to Olympic National Forest.

One of the best hikes I have done. Very peaceful and quiet in September. Loved every single bit of it. There is a nice restaurant where you can take away and eat it watching sunset near the lake.