5 Gorgeous Trails at Olympic National Park

Old growth forests and rushing rapids are in abundance here


If you're looking for an incredible outdoor adventure, look no further than Olympic National Park. Located northwest of Washington State, this stunning park features nearly one million acres of pristine wilderness. 


Whether you're a hiker, camper, or just a general nature lover, Olympic National Park has something for everyone


Established as a national park in 1938 by FDR, Olympic National Park is home to various landscapes. From the snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains to the lush rainforests of the Hoh River Valley, the park was designated a World Heritage Site in 1981 and remains one of the most popular national parks in the country.


The park is also known for its rugged and sandy beaches, where many indigenous Hoh people live in the small community of La Push. Here you can also find some of the most beautiful coastlines in the Pacific Northwest.


There are endless hiking trails to explore in Olympic National Park, but we've narrowed down five of the best for you. Remember that the park requires you to pay a fee before using any of these trails.

Marymere Falls Trail

Start your hiking adventures with a small trek up to the beautiful Marymere Falls. 


A mostly flat and paved trail, this is a great hike for families or those looking for a short and sweet nature walk. If you love hiking through mossy forests where it feels like you're in a fairytale, this is the hike for you.


Total Distance: 1.67 miles

Elevation Gain: 298 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Walking, Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

  • This trail is family-friendly with little elevation
  • This trail tends to get busy mid-day, so be sure to arrive early or go later in the day
  • Rocks can be slippery near the fall, so watch your footing if you are trying to get a closer look
  • No dogs allowed on this trail

Hall of Mosses Trail

With massive old western hemlock and Sitka spruce trees lining the path, the Hall of Mosses is a short loop that will make you feel like you're in another world.


As you stroll through this ethereal forest, you'll be surrounded by green as far as the eye can see. With benches littered throughout the trail, this is the perfect place to take a break, enjoy the silence, and soak up the beauty of nature.


Total Distance: 1.11 miles

Elevation Gain: 78.7 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Walking, Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

  • No dogs allowed on this trail
  • This trail is partially paved, meaning it is stroller and wheelchair accessible, but some sections may require help to navigate
  • This trail tends to get busy mid-day, so be sure to arrive early or go later in the day
  • This trail is family-friendly with little elevation

Staircase Rapids Loop

Old growth forest, a massive fallen cedar, and a beautiful waterfall await you on this short loop hike.


The Staircase Rapids Loop is one of the most popular trails in Olympic National Park. It's an easy hike with incredible views that the whole family will love. 


Be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment at the top of the staircase where you can see the raging rapids below.


Total Distance: 2.11 miles

Elevation Gain: 213 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Walking, Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

  • No dogs allowed on this trail
  • This trail allows for swimming in the river section
  • This trail can become overgrown in some sections and requires some bushwacking
  • This trail is family-friendly with little elevation

Mount Storm King

If you're looking for a thrilling hike with jaw-dropping views, look no further than Mount Storm King.


Be ready to be tested with this strenuous hike with a lot of elevation gain. While the maintained area of the trail only covers about three-quarters of the entire trail,  the rest is definitely worth it as you make your way to the top of Mount Storm King using ropes to scale the steepest parts of the mountain.


Elevation Gain: 2106 feet

Difficulty: Hard - Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

  • This trail should only be attempted by those with a high physical fitness level or experience with high-end hiking
  • The park does not maintain the end of the trail
  • This trail uses ropes to help hikers climb up steeper sections and is not maintained by the park — use at your own discretion
  • Gloves are recommended when using the ropes to get to the top
  • This trail is very steep and rocky at points — bring proper hiking footwear

High Divide and Seven Lakes Basin Loop

Pack up that overnight bag and get ready for an adventure because the High Divide and Seven Lakes Basin Loop is a two-day hike you won't want to miss.


Experience all the different biomes that Olympic National Park offers on this once-in-a-lifetime journey. This hike has everything from old-growth forests to subalpine meadows and alpine lakes. Plus, camping out under the stars is an experience you'll never forget.


Total Distance: 19 miles

Elevation Gain: 5387 feet

Difficulty: Hard - Hiking, Backpacking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

  • This is a multi-day hike and requires camping gear
  • This trail should only be attempted by those with a high physical fitness level or experience with high-end hiking
  • This trail is very rocky at times, so ensure proper hiking footwear is worn
  • Bugs can get bad on this trail — bug spray is recommended
  • Bears are common on this trail — Bear spray is recommended

There are a ton of amazing trails to choose from at Olympic National Park. Whether you're looking for an easy nature walk or a multi-day backpacking adventure, you’re bound to find it. So get out there and explore all that this national park has to offer!