Throughout the winter season, rain falls frequently in the Hoh Rain Forest, contributing to the yearly total of 140 to 170 inches (or 12 to 14 feet!) of precipitation each year. The result is a lush, green canopy of both coniferous and deciduous species. Mosses and ferns that blanket the surfaces add another dimension to the enchantment of the rainforest. Click here fore more info.

Rocky beaches, giant drift logs, pounding waves and views of offshore islands known as 'seastacks' are features that define Rialto Beach.  Just inland is the Mora area, characterized by towering trees, lush undergrowth and the omnipresent roar of the Pacific Ocean in the background. Click here fore more info.

Nestled in the northern foothills of the Olympic Mountains, Lake Crescent lies about 18 miles west of Port Angeles (directions). The pristine waters of this deep, glacially carved lake make it an ideal destination for those in search of natural beauty. Click here for more info.

The springs, known to local Indian tribes for their therapeutic value, first came to the attention of settlers in the 1880s. For those looking to spend anywhere from a few hours to an entire day in the Sol Duc, there are a number of shorter hikes that may be suitable. Click here for more info.

This is a great year-round waterfall seen by many Olympic National Park visitors. The Park Service seasonally offers nature tours. If it is open, stop at the historic reconstructed ranger station for more information about the Park. Click here for more info.

The Elwha is the Olympic Peninsula's largest watershed and prior to the construction of two dams in the early 1900s, was known for its impressive salmon returns.  Today, the Elwha River is the site of one of the largest ecosystem restoration projects in National Park Service history. With its sparkling river surrounded by mountains, the Elwha Valley is a popular destination for all.Click here for more info.

This 9.9-mile segment of trail follows the route of the Spruce Railroad, which was built in the waning days of WWI to bring old growth spruce logs out of the forest for building biplanes for the war effort. Locally, it is called the Spruce Railroad Trail, and it is located within Olympic National Park. It leaves from the East Beach trailhead and continues along the north shore of Lake Crescent for about 4 miles before it starts climbing gently toward the top of Fairholm Hill. Click here fore more info.

From the tip of this scenic trail, you can view Tatoosh Island while standing on the most northwesterly tip of the contiguous lower 48 States. Four observation decks on the Cape Flattery Trail provide spectacular views of the rugged rocks, birds, and jade waters of the Pacific Ocean. The Pacific takes on many hues depending on the weather and cloud cover from steel gray to light pink or yellow at sunset. Watch for gray whales off the Cape and sea lions on Snake Rock just east of Tatoosh Island. Click here for more info.

Hurricane Ridge is the most easily accessed mountain area within Olympic National Park. In clear weather, fantastic views can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Hurricane Ridge is located 17 miles south of Port Angeles on Hurricane Ridge Road, off Mount Angeles Road (directions). Click here for more info.