Olympic National Park, located in the northwest corner of Washington State, is one of the most ecologically diverse national parks in the United States. From glacier-capped peaks to wild beaches and lush temperate rainforests, it offers backpackers a unique chance to explore a wide variety of landscapes—all within a single park boundary. Whether you’re trekking through ancient cedar groves, crossing alpine ridges, or camping near sea stacks along the coast, Olympic’s terrain is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
This guide is perfect for budget-conscious travelers, solo hikers, and outdoor lovers looking to experience Olympic National Park’s backcountry. It covers everything you need to plan a backpacking trip, including trail recommendations, budget transportation, ideal seasons to visit, and travel logistics. Whether you’re a first-time backpacker or a seasoned hiker looking to explore new terrain, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your Olympic adventure.
Why Backpacking in Olympic National Park Is Worth It
Olympic National Park is often described as a “three-in-one” park, thanks to its distinct ecological regions: rugged Pacific coastline, temperate rainforest, and alpine mountains. Few parks in the U.S. can rival this diversity. In a single backpacking trip, you might camp beside crashing ocean waves, hike through moss-draped old-growth forests, and summit snow-streaked ridgelines with panoramic views of the Olympic Range.
For backpackers, this variety makes every trail feel like a new experience. The coastal trails are especially rare in the U.S.—you’ll be climbing over driftwood, fording tide-dependent sections, and setting up camp on sandy beaches with views of dramatic sea stacks. Meanwhile, the Hoh and Quinault Rainforests transport you into a world of ancient giants and soft, mossy floors. In contrast, routes like the High Divide Loop or Enchanted Valley Trail offer alpine meadows, glacier views, and the chance to spot black bears, marmots, or elk.
Olympic’s vast trail network and permit-based system also keep the backcountry relatively quiet, even during peak season. For backpackers seeking solitude, rich biodiversity, and visual variety, it’s hard to beat.
Best Time to Go Backpacking in Olympic National Park
The best time to backpack in Olympic National Park is from mid-June to late September, when most high-elevation trails are snow-free and access roads are fully open. However, the best time for your trip depends on your priorities and hiking goals.
Summer (June–September)
This is the prime backpacking season, especially in the alpine areas. Snow typically melts from high passes by July, and wildflowers bloom in meadows throughout July and August. Trails like the Seven Lakes Basin, Grand Valley, and High Divide Loop are most accessible during this period. On the coast, tides are still a factor, but the weather tends to be clearer, making it easier to plan multi-day hikes.
However, summer also brings larger crowds, particularly on weekends and in frontcountry campgrounds. While Olympic doesn’t get as busy as places like Yosemite, popular zones do fill quickly for backcountry permits, especially on holiday weekends.
Shoulder Seasons (May–early June and late September–October)
These months are cooler and quieter, offering a more peaceful experience for those who don’t mind the possibility of rain. Lowland rainforest trails like Hoh River Trail and Enchanted Valley are generally accessible by mid-May. Early fall offers crisp weather and golden colors, especially in alpine zones. However, snow can return early in the fall, and some roads may close if storms roll in.
For budget travelers, September and early October offer excellent value. Lodging prices drop, crowds thin out, and forest trails remain accessible. Just be prepared for wet weather and colder nights.
Winter and Early Spring
While not ideal for extended backpacking, some lowland trails—such as the Ozette Triangle or parts of the Hoh Rainforest—can still be hiked during mild winter weeks. However, alpine and high-country routes are snowbound and require winter travel skills. Snowshoes or skis are often needed, and avalanche conditions can be a serious risk.
How to Get There (and Around on a Budget)
Despite its remote feel, Olympic National Park is surprisingly accessible, especially for travelers coming from the Seattle area. However, transportation logistics vary depending on which part of the park you’re visiting, so planning ahead is key.
From Seattle:
Most travelers begin their trip from Seattle, which is about 2.5 to 3.5 hours away depending on your destination within the park.
- By car: Drive north on I-5, then connect to US-101 at Olympia. From there, you’ll head west and loop around the peninsula toward trailheads such as Hoh Rainforest, Sol Duc, or Hurricane Ridge.
- By ferry and car: Take the Seattle–Bainbridge or Edmonds–Kingston ferry to save time and enjoy scenic views across Puget Sound. From there, connect to US-101.
Budget Public Transit Options:
While less flexible than driving, several public transportation routes can help budget-conscious travelers reach Olympic’s gateway towns:
- Dungeness Line (Greyhound affiliate): Offers daily bus service from Seattle to Port Angeles, with stops in Sequim and Port Townsend.
- Clallam Transit: Provides bus routes around the northern Olympic Peninsula, including connections to Lake Crescent, Forks, and La Push. Fares are typically under $2 per ride.
- Jefferson Transit: Covers routes from Port Townsend and Port Angeles to some trailheads and towns on the eastern edge.
Public transit doesn’t reach many interior trailheads directly, but it’s possible to combine buses with ride-shares or short cab rides for access to places like Sol Duc or Hoh Rainforest.
Car Rentals and Rideshares:
Renting a car is still the easiest way to reach remote trailheads. If you’re traveling with friends, splitting rental and fuel costs can be very affordable. Apps like BlaBlaCar or forums such as Reddit’s r/campingandhiking can also help coordinate carpools.
Budget tip: Some hostels and lodges in Port Angeles and Forks offer shuttle services to trailheads. It’s worth calling in advance to ask about pricing or availability, especially if you’re traveling solo.
Suggested Backpacking Itineraries
Olympic National Park’s varied terrain allows for countless backpacking options, ranging from short, forested river hikes to full loops that traverse coastline, alpine ridges, and temperate rainforests. Here are three sample itineraries suitable for different experience levels and timeframes.
3-Day Intro Trip: Ozette Triangle Coastal Loop
- Day 1: Begin at the Ozette Ranger Station and hike the Cape Alava Trail (3.1 miles) through coastal forest to reach the beach. Camp at Cape Alava or a nearby designated site.
- Day 2: Follow the coastline south for 3.1 miles to Sand Point. Watch for tide tables and slippery sections. Camp at Sand Point, enjoying views of sea stacks and sunsets.
- Day 3: Hike back inland on the Sand Point Trail (3.1 miles) to complete the triangle loop.
This is an excellent introductory route with manageable mileage, rich coastal scenery, and opportunities to see tidepools and marine wildlife.
5-Day Moderate Trip: Enchanted Valley via Graves Creek
- Day 1: Start from Graves Creek Trailhead and hike along the East Fork Quinault River Trail to O’Neil Creek (6.5 miles).
- Day 2: Continue to Enchanted Valley (13 miles total), known for its steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
- Day 3: Take a day hike further into the valley toward Anderson Glacier or simply explore the area.
- Day 4: Return to O’Neil Creek Camp.
- Day 5: Hike out to the trailhead.
This out-and-back trip provides a classic rainforest experience with plenty of old-growth trees, river views, and high chances of spotting bears or elk.
7-Day Full Loop: North Coast + Hoh Rainforest Connector
- Day 1: Start at Third Beach Trailhead, hike to Strawberry Point (5 miles), and camp near the beach.
- Day 2–3: Continue north along the coast, camping at Toleak Point and Scott Creek.
- Day 4: Exit at Oil City Trailhead and transfer to Hoh River Trailhead (via shuttle or car reposition).
- Day 5–6: Hike into the Hoh Rainforest, camp near Five Mile Island and then Glacier Meadows.
- Day 7: Return to the trailhead or arrange pickup at a designated point.
This loop blends rugged coastline with lush rainforest and river valley hiking, offering some of the park’s most iconic environments in one trip.
Budget Accommodation Options
Whether you’re sleeping under the stars or looking for an affordable place to stay pre- or post-hike, Olympic National Park and its nearby towns provide several budget-friendly options.
Frontcountry Campgrounds
- Heart O’ the Hills Campground: Near Hurricane Ridge, first-come, first-served. $20/night.
- Hoh Rainforest Campground: Located near the Hoh Visitor Center. Reservations open in peak season via Recreation.gov.
- Kalaloch Campground: Offers beach access and stunning coastal views. $24/night. Reservations recommended.
Backcountry Camping Permits
All overnight backcountry trips in Olympic require a Wilderness Permit, which costs $8 per person per night, plus a $6 reservation fee. Permits can be reserved up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov. Bear canisters are required in coastal and high-country zones.
Affordable Lodging Nearby
- Port Angeles Inn: Basic, clean, and near the park’s northern entrance.
- Forks Motel: Budget-friendly and centrally located for rainforest and coastal access.
- Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort (Cabin Share): Split costs with a group to enjoy hot springs and basic cabin comfort.
Backpacking Costs in Olympic National Park
A multi-day backpacking trip in Olympic can be done on a modest budget with proper planning. Below is a rough cost estimate:
- Backcountry permit: $6 reservation fee + $8 per person per night
- Frontcountry campground: $20–$24 per night
- Food and snacks: $10–$15 per day
- Transportation (from Seattle round trip): $30–$60 (gas or bus)
- Gear rental (if needed): $100–$150 for full setup
Total 3-day trip with personal gear: ~$80–$120
Total 5–7-day trip with some rentals: ~$150–$250
Cost-saving tips:
- Borrow gear from friends or local gear libraries.
- Share campsites and fuel with your group.
- Cook simple meals instead of buying prepackaged backpacker food.
- Travel during shoulder seasons when permit quotas and lodging rates are lower.
Must-Pack Essentials for Olympic National Park
The Olympic backcountry spans coast, rainforest, and mountains—so you’ll need to prepare for a wide range of conditions. It’s crucial to pack light, but not underprepared.
Essential Gear Checklist:
- Backpack (50–65L) – Lightweight with comfortable load support.
- Tent – A 3-season, freestanding tent with a waterproof fly (e.g., MSR Hubba Hubba or Big Agnes Copper Spur).
- Sleeping bag – Rated to 30°F or lower, as temps can dip even in summer.
- Sleeping pad – Insulated inflatable pads work well for comfort and warmth.
- Stove – Compact options like the Jetboil or MSR PocketRocket.
- Fuel canister – Check restrictions for specific campsites.
- Water filter or purifier – Sawyer Squeeze, Platypus GravityWorks, or SteriPen.
- Food storage – Bear canister (required in many zones) or Ursack.
- Layered clothing – Include moisture-wicking base layers, a warm fleece or puffy jacket, and a waterproof shell.
- Navigation tools – Downloaded offline maps on Gaia GPS or AllTrails, plus a paper backup.
- Headlamp – With extra batteries.
- Bug protection – Mosquito repellent, head net (especially in summer).
Optional but helpful:
- Trekking poles for uneven terrain
- Microspikes if hiking early season in alpine zones
- Portable power bank for charging GPS or phone
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Top Things to Do for Backpackers
Backpacking through Olympic National Park offers more than just great hiking. Every corner of the park holds unique, often dramatic natural features worth experiencing.
- Wildlife viewing: Elk, black bears, mountain goats, and river otters are commonly seen. Bald eagles and seabirds frequent the coast.
- Tidepooling: At low tide, explore the beach zones of Rialto Beach, Shi Shi Beach, and Cape Alava for starfish, sea anemones, and crabs.
- Beach camping: Spend the night just steps from the Pacific Ocean, listening to the waves crash under the stars.
- Alpine hiking: The High Divide and Grand Valley offer jaw-dropping mountain views, glacial lakes, and fields of wildflowers.
- Waterfalls: Backpackers can detour to see Sol Duc Falls, Marymere Falls, or the cascades in Enchanted Valley.
For many, the variety of terrain and natural features in a single trip is what sets Olympic apart from other national parks.
Food and Water Tips for Backpackers
Food and water planning can make or break your trip. Olympic’s diverse environments offer plenty of natural water sources but also require strategic packing for meals and hydration.
Food Planning:
- Opt for lightweight, high-calorie meals like dehydrated packs, rice, pasta, jerky, nut butters, and energy bars.
- Bring at least 2,500–4,000 calories per day, especially if covering long miles or climbing steep terrain.
- Pack food in reusable bags and store it in bear-proof containers.
Water Sourcing:
- Reliable sources include rivers like the Hoh, Quinault, Bogachiel, and Elwha, as well as mountain streams and coastal creeks.
- Always filter or purify water, even in alpine areas, due to potential contamination from wildlife or upstream campers.
- On the coast, avoid drinking brackish water near ocean inlets—look for clear freshwater flowing into the sea.
- Carry at least 2–3 liters per person, more if hiking exposed ridges or coastal zones with fewer refill points.
Safety Tips for Backpacking in Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park’s wild and remote terrain demands solid planning and situational awareness. Conditions can shift rapidly, and not all areas offer quick access to help.
Trail safety should be your first priority. Trails in the rainforest can become slick with moss and mud, while coastal sections may require scrambling over logs or rocks. On alpine routes like the High Divide, snowfields may linger into July, so check trail conditions ahead of time. Always carry a paper map and GPS backup, as cell service is unreliable throughout most of the park.
Weather risks are also significant. Sudden rain, wind, and cold can occur any time of year, especially in higher elevations and along the coast. Hypothermia is a year-round risk if you’re not properly equipped. Layer your clothing and carry reliable rain gear, even during dry spells.
Wildlife encounters are common but manageable with preparation. Black bears roam many areas, especially in Enchanted Valley and coastal zones. Use a bear canister or bear hang, and never store food or scented items in your tent. Ticks may be active in grassy or wooded areas during late spring and summer—wear long pants and check your body daily.
For emergencies, carry a satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach or SPOT device. These tools allow you to call for help if you’re injured or lost. Always leave your trip itinerary with someone back home, including expected return date and trail names.
Eco-Friendly and Responsible Travel Tips
Olympic National Park is a fragile ecosystem where small impacts can lead to long-term damage. Practicing responsible travel ensures that future visitors can enjoy its wild beauty.
Follow Leave No Trace principles:
- Stay on established trails to prevent erosion and plant damage.
- Camp at least 200 feet from lakes, rivers, and trails.
- Pack out all waste, including food scraps, wrappers, and toilet paper. Do not burn garbage.
- Use reusable containers to reduce single-use plastic.
- For human waste, dig a cathole 6–8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water sources—or use WAG bags where required.
Campfires are discouraged in many backcountry zones due to fire risk and ecological damage. Use a camp stove instead, and always check local fire regulations before your trip.
Wildlife protection is another major concern. Never feed animals, even indirectly by leaving food unattended. Respect wildlife by maintaining distance—use binoculars or zoom lenses rather than approaching animals.
Recommended Apps & Tools for Backpackers
The right digital tools can help you plan smarter and navigate safer in Olympic’s vast backcountry. Many areas lack service, so choose apps that work offline.
Navigation & Maps
- Gaia GPS: Excellent for downloading topographic maps and tracking your route offline.
- AllTrails Pro: Useful for trail previews, elevation profiles, and user reviews. The Pro version allows offline access.
- Avenza Maps: Lets you use official USGS and NPS maps offline with GPS tracking.
- CalTopo: Great for advanced users who want to build custom map layers and print maps.
Permits & Logistics
- Recreation.gov App: Reserve backcountry permits, frontcountry campsites, and view trail availability.
- Garmin Earthmate: Pairs with Garmin inReach for GPS messaging and topo maps in the wilderness.
Additional Tools
- PeakFinder: Identify surrounding peaks from ridgelines.
- Windy: Reliable weather forecasts with detailed wind and precipitation maps.
- FarOut (formerly Guthook): While better known for long trails like the PCT, some Olympic routes are covered.
Before leaving, make sure you download all maps and data offline, as many trailheads and campsites have no signal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. All overnight backpacking trips require a Wilderness Permit, which you can reserve through Recreation.gov. Permits cost $8 per person per night, plus a $6 reservation fee.
Coastal backpacking is possible year-round but comes with extra planning. Winter brings stormy seas and limited daylight. Tide charts are essential for safe passage—some sections are impassable during high tide.
Explore less popular routes like the Bogachiel River Trail, Grand Valley, or South Coast beaches. Traveling in early fall also reduces competition for campsites and permits while offering great weather.
Yes, they are mandatory in most coastal and high-use areas, including Enchanted Valley, Sol Duc, and all coastal routes. Rangers strictly enforce this rule for your safety and wildlife protection.
In most areas, yes. Streams, rivers, and alpine lakes offer frequent water sources. However, all water must be filtered, boiled, or chemically treated to remove contaminants like giardia or cryptosporidium.
Mosquitoes can be heavy from late May to mid-August, especially in wet lowlands and alpine meadows. Bring insect repellent, a head net, and consider wearing long sleeves in problem areas.
Weather in alpine zones like Hurricane Ridge or the High Divide can be unpredictable. Expect sudden rain, wind, and cold nights—even in July. Always carry extra layers and rain protection.
Solo backpacking is common, but preparation is key. Share your route with someone, carry emergency communication, and stay aware of weather, terrain, and wildlife. Stick to established trails and avoid river crossings after heavy rain.
No. Dogs are not allowed on most trails in the park, including all backcountry routes, for the protection of wildlife and ecosystems. However, dogs are permitted on some park roads and picnic areas.
Yes, with proper logistics. Many backpackers combine coastal hikes like Third Beach to Toleak Point with a shuttle or side trip to Hoh Rainforest or Lake Crescent. Just plan transport ahead of time.
Robert StarkeRobert Starke is a graphic designer with a keen eye for detail and a strong background in video editing. Beyond his creative work, he’s an avid traveler and passionate writer who enjoys sharing practical, engaging advice with fellow adventurers. A lifelong animal lover, Robert also writes about pet products for other websites. Here at Traveleon.com, he focuses mainly on camping, hiking, and backpacking—offering firsthand tips, gear guides, and destination insights to help readers make the most of their time outdoors.