Welcome to the Olympic Peninsula!

From the Pacific Ocean to the Hood Canal Bordered on the west by the Pacific Ocean, on the east by the Hood Canal and on the north by the Strait of Juan de Fuca , the Olympic Peninsula is anchored by the majestic Olympic Mountains. No other place in America can match its diversity in terrain and weather in such a compact geographic area. It is reached from Seattle via Washington State ferries and a 60-minute drive, or two-hour drive northwest from SeaTac International Airport. From rugged ocean beaches to the peaks of the Olympic Mountain range and spectacular Hood Canal, you'll find easy access for exploration of our lakes, waterfalls, rivers and rain forests. Olympic National Park, designated a World Heritage Site and Biosphere, rests in the heart of the Peninsula, combining the rocky Pacific Ocean coast and snowy Olympic Mountain peaks with the unique rain forests of the Park's western coastal valleys. On the western slopes, large herds of Roosevelt elk roam the temperate rain forests and the green river valleys.

This is the home of some of the world's largest trees, many draped with thick cloaks of moss, and an astounding array of mushrooms and lichens. The northern slopes are sheltered by a rain shadow that protects the lush valleys and provides the perfect climate for growing colorful, long-lasting flowers, especially lavender. Lodging ranges from quiet bed and breakfast inns, to fishing resorts, country motels and famous historic lodges.

To learn more, explore our travel planner and then take a hike to the websites of the  Olympic Peninsula, and find out why you'll need more than one trip to see it all.