Washington2012

Olympic National Park

The majesty of the Olympic Mountains, the fairy-tale quality of the rain forests and the pristine wilderness coastline are great reasons to visit Olympic National Park. This World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve encompasses nearly one million acres and also includes glacier-carved lakes, waterfalls, over 600 miles of hiking trails, dozens of campgrounds and scenic vistas. Highlights of the Park include Hurricane Ridge, the Hoh Rain Forest and 60 miles of unspoiled coastline.

Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway - Hwy 112

One of the nation's newest National Scenic Byways, it follows the shoreline of a glacial fjord that connects Puget Sound to the Pacific Ocean, separating the Olympic Peninsula from Vancouver Island, British Columbia. This dramatic stretch of coastline with rugged cliffs and forests, reaches farther into the cold waters of the North Pacific than any other mainland point in the lower 48 states. Eagles, otters and gray whales are common sights, depending on the time of year.

Wildlife Viewing

The Olympic Peninsula is one of the best places on the globe to view diverse wildlife at close proximity. Black-tailed deer inhabit the hills and lowlands and are frequently seen through the region. Likewise, eagles and raptors such as falcons and hawks populate many areas on the peninsula. In the fall, spawning season brings different species of salmon into the rivers and streams. In Olympic National Park, mountain goats live in the higher altitudes, while Roosevelt elk roam in the lower areas and move in and out of the Park boundaries.