3 Day Olympic national park itinerary

Day 1: Hurricane Ridge & Elwha Valley

• Morning: Start your trip with Hurricane Ridge, just a 30-minute drive from Port Angeles. Your kiddos will enjoy the Olympic National Park Visitor Center at the start of Hurricane Ridge Road, featuring a Jr. Ranger passport stamping station, a discovery center and a short forest trail just off the parking lot, called Peabody Creek Trail. This trail is also pet friendly and a great hike to take your dogs on. After the breathtaking drive up to Hurricane Ridge, take in the breathtaking mountain views and hike the Hurricane Hill Trail for a panoramic experience.

• Afternoon: Head to the Elwha Valley, where you can explore the restored river ecosystem following the historic dam removal. Walk along the Elwha River Trail to appreciate the natural beauty.

• Evening: Return to Port Angeles and unwind with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. We recommend Yodelin, Next Door Gastro Pub, 929 Woodfire Grill or Sabai Thai. Looking for ice cream after a hot day of hiking? Check out Welly's on the Wharf!

  
  

PRO TIP : Visiting a local? Checkout a 7 day olympic national park entrance pass from the library! Otherwise, consider buying a America the Beautiful Pass for $80 that is valid for all national parks. If you do plan on visiting cape flattery you will need an additional pass from the makah tribe called the Makah Recreation Pass, which is $20. You may ALSO want a washington state discover pass, as you'll find a lot of parking throughout the coast requires this pass at an additional $10/day or $45/annually.

Day 2: Lake Crescent & Marymere Falls

• Morning: Drive about 40 minutes to Lake Crescent, a pristine glacial lake with crystal-clear waters. Enjoy kayaking or a peaceful lakeside stroll. That's where we come in. Rent a transparent paddle board or kayak from Paddle Pacwest to make the most of your exploration of Lake Crescent. You can pick up near the local hot spot, Granny's Cafe, or we can arrange delivery to you!

• Afternoon: Hike the Marymere Falls Trail (a quick 1.8 mile in and out hike), leading to a stunning waterfall nestled in the forest. Though this hike is short, it is steep. Pack water and good shoes!

• Evening: Eat dinner at Lake Crescent Lodge and watch the sunset behind the lake. If they have their Basque cheesecake, you'll want to try it!

Day 3: Madison Falls & Sol Duc Falls

• Morning: Pack lunch and dinner if you're feeling bold! A day a little further outside of town is totally worth it.

• Start with a quick visit to Madison Falls, just a 15-minute drive from Port Angeles. It’s an easy-access waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

• Afternoon: Continue to Sol Duc Falls, about an hour away. Explore the short hiking trail leading to this dramatic waterfall, or unwind at the nearby Sol Duc Hot Springs.

• Evening: Watch the ships light up in the evening at Salt Creek and get a similar shot as Cape Flattery just down the steps of the campground, or off the local beach access.

This itinerary ensures you experience mountains, waterfalls, lakes, and rivers—all within easy reach of Port Angeles, reducing your time in the car and maximizing your time enjoying the sights, smells, sounds and people of the Olympic Peninsula!