Hit the Hiking Trails Even if You’re a Beginner in Olympic National Park
The Pacific Northwest is known for its parks and hiking spots, and that most definitely includes Olympic National Park. Even if you’ve never hiked before, you’ll find trails you can manage at this million-acre paradise. If the park isn’t on your bucket list already, it’s time to add it, along with one or more of these hikes.
These are some of the best easy hikes in Olympic National Park, suitable for hikers of all levels. Whether you’re visiting this beloved national park in Washington with kids, friends, or a group of experienced adventurers, there’s a trail or two here for you!
Before You Go Hiking in Olympic National Park
When visiting Washington, keep the Pacific Northwest weather in mind. Expect rain for most of winter and spring, and come prepared with shoes you don’t mind getting dirty and that will keep your feet dry. A lightweight, waterproof parka is also wise to stick in your daypack.
You should also check the park’s website to make sure trails and park entrances aren’t temporarily closed when you visit. Lastly, always pack water.
As you plan your trip to Olympic National Park, remember that there are park entrance fees and campground fees to pay. Park fees are assessed based on your group size and method of transportation, whereas the campground fees depend on the spot and season in which you’re camping. You can buy these passes online or in person.
You should also keep in mind that some of these trails lead to attractions that cost money (like Sol Duc Falls, which leads to a resort where you can purchase food or drinks). Come prepared with extra funds in case you hike those trails and want to check out the amenities at the attraction.
Top 10 Easy Hikes in Olympic National Park
Now for the list of the best hikes for that you can do in Olympic National Park, whether you’re a novice hiker or just want to enjoy epic views without having to struggle much.
Hall of Mosses
I’m starting this list with one of my absolute favorite hikes of all time and proof you don’t need a long, steep, difficult hike for maximum scenery rewards. The Hall of Mosses in Olympic National Park’s Hoh Rain Forest.
This Hoh Rain Forest loop is mostly flat, roughly one mile long, and popular among park guests. Start your short journey at the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center, where you’ll see a sign for the trail entrance.
Before long you’ll be marveling at the moss-covered trees that make for fantastic Instagram photos. Since it’s so short, the Hall of Mosses trail is a great way to introduce kids to hiking (it was one of the first hikes we took my oldest on when she was a toddler!) and kids likely won’t get tired or bored like they might on a longer route. Plus, this trail is about as close as you can get to feeling like you’re walking in an enchanted forest.
The Hoh Rain Forest is on the southwest side of the park. The visitor center is at the end of Hoh Valley Road, with the trailhead being not far from there.
Hurricane Hill
The paved, out-and-back Hurricane Hill trail takes about two hours to hike. It’s located in the Hurricane Ridge area in the northern region of Olympic National Park.
While the trail is rather steep in parts, there are benches along the incline to rest on if you need to. Some visitors say the path is suitable for strollers, making it an option for families with young kids. When we did it with a baby, we used an Ergo carrier.
The Hurricane Hill trail is open year-round, though your journey will be much more difficult during the winter. If you visit when there’s still snow on the ground, consider bringing snow shoes. If visiting during peak travel times like summer and Memorial Day Weekend, try to time your hike for early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Marymere Falls
Marymere Falls is an easy out-and-back hike near the Storm King Ranger Station. The main attraction on this trail is the 90-foot waterfall with two viewing points. Until you reach the falls, you can expect mostly flat ground; once there, you’ll have some stairs to climb.
Don’t forget a waterproof camera or case to get better photos of the water!
This trail is open year-round, but due to the possibility of ice in the colder months, it’s better to hike it in the summer unless you’re an experienced winter hiker.
Keep in mind this is a popular spot for Olympic National Park visitors, so expect to share the path with others if you visit in the spring or summer.
Sol Duc Falls Hike
Here’s another popular trail that is well worth sharing with others. Sol Duc Falls is an out-and-back canopy forest trail is 1.6 miles long and features a waterfall at the end. Along the way, you’ll find boardwalks and handrails to make your journey easier.
Another reason to hike the Sol Duc Falls Trail is to visit the hot springs resort nearby. You can relax in the hot springs without lodging there, so bring a bathing suit with you on your hike. If you’re in need of a cabin to sleep in, the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is a great option.
To get to this trailhead, drive down Sol Duc Falls. You’ll find other trails along the way, like the difficult North Fork Quinault Trail and half-mile-long Ancient Groves Nature Trail. Sol Duc Falls is at the end of the road at mile marker 13.8.
Spruce Railroad Trail to Devil’s Punchbowl
The Spruce Railroad Trail is 10 miles long out and back, but you can make this hike much shorter by making the Devil’s Punchbowl your destination. As you hike to this still body of water, you’ll walk under an old railroad tunnel and over a bridge.
Many people admire the Devil’s Punchbowl from that bridge, which is what I did, but if you’re up for it, you can also get in the water, which people were doing while we were there. Whether you get your feet wet or not, don’t forget your camera – the Devil’s Punchbowl is a beautiful shade of turquoise.
While most of the Spruce Railroad Trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible, the path to the Devil’s Punchbowl is not. Typically, this trail is heavily trafficked, so prepare to share it with other Olympic National Park guests.
Ruby Beach
This “hike” can more accurately be described as a short walk to the beach. It’s just one mile long with a slight elevation gain, and the final destination has tidal pools and rock formations. As you walk farther down the beach, you’ll run into fewer people – otherwise, Ruby Beach is rather crowded. There aren’t many short hikes with as great of a payoff as this one!
When visiting Ruby Beach, remember to wear waterproof shoes that you wouldn’t mind stepping on rocks in. To see the tidal pools, try taking this hike during low tide. You should also be mindful of driftwood on the ground and slippery rock formations.
Rialto Beach to Hole in the Wall
The 3.3-mile hike to Hole in the Wall isn’t as easy as others on this list, requiring some balance and walking over rocks. You’ll need to complete this journey during low tide; otherwise, the Hole in the Wall isn’t accessible.
Once you get there, though, you’ll be met with gorgeous views, sea stacks, and wildlife. If you’re up for a moderate hike with little elevation, the Hole in the Wall is worth the struggle to get to.
The Hole in the Wall is an especially lovely photo opportunity, especially for those who like playing with camera angles.
For this hike, make sure your shoes have traction when wet. You should also make sure you hike during daylight hours to avoid tripping on rocks and so you can see the waves at all times. Sneaker waves happen on the Washington coastline and can be very dangerous.
Second Beach
The out-and-back hike to Second Beach near La Push, Washington will bring you through the forest before you reach the water. Like other beach trails in Olympic National Park, this one is best hiked during low tide so you can see the sea stacks better.
The most difficult part of this trail is at the end, with a steep slope to the beach and a similarly steep incline on the way back. However, the short hike to Second Beach is still manageable for beginners.
Some people choose to camp at Second Beach after their hike. If you decide to do that, remember to bring a bear canister, tent, and find a spot that won’t be affected by the tides.
Fun Fact: The Second Beach trail is close to Forks, where the hit book series Twilight took place.
Staircase Rapids Loop Trail
The Staircase Rapids Loop Trail is open year-round, giving you great views of a river. Aside from being muddy at times due to creek dwelling, this hike is easy for most hikers.
Some of the trail’s features include a suspension bridge, waterfalls, and flat terrain. If you’re looking for a hike that your whole family can partake in, the Staircase Rapids Loop Trail is a good option.
The trailhead isn’t always the easiest to get to. The road in can be plagued with potholes and might be muddy or even snowy, so check road conditions before leaving.
Sunrise Point
This loop trail is less than a mile long, so despite having some incline, it’s still doable for most visitors. You won’t just be treated to beautiful landscape views – you may even run into some wildlife. The trailhead can be easily reached from the Hurricane Ridge parking lot, so consider taking on Sunrise Point before or after you hike Hurricane Hill.
As you hike Sunrise Point, be careful not to disturb the animals you come across. Some people have reported seeing bears along the trail, so make sure you give them some space. You should also keep in mind that due to this trail’s proximity to a parking lot, it tends to be crowded. Get there early to ensure you find a parking spot.
Enjoy These Easy Olympic National Park Hikes!
Olympic National Park isn’t just for experienced hikers – it’s also for those who are new to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re seeking shorter journeys or fewer inclines, you won’t need to overexert yourself on trails that are too difficult.
If you’ve been to this park before, what’s your favorite easy trail?