History of #ONP
- Pacwest Stays
- May 15
- 1 min read
Olympic National Park has a rich history, shaped by conservation efforts and the unique ecosystems of the Olympic Peninsula.
The land has been home to Indigenous tribes for thousands of years, including the Makah, Quileute, Hoh, Quinault, and Klallam peoples, who have deep cultural ties to the region.
In 1897, President Grover Cleveland designated the area as Olympic Forest Reserve to protect its disappearing forests.
In 1909, President Theodore Roosevelt established Mount Olympus National Monument to safeguard the habitat of Roosevelt elk, a species named after him.
In 1938, President Franklin D. Roosevelt officially designated Olympic National Park, expanding protections to include its rainforests, mountains, and coastline.
The park gained international recognition in 1976 as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and in 1981 as a World Heritage Site, highlighting its global ecological importance.
In 1988, Congress designated 95% of the park as wilderness, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Today, Olympic National Park is celebrated for its diverse ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, alpine meadows, and rugged Pacific coastline. It remains a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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