Olympic National Park is a vast and beautiful park located in the state of Washington. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including rainforests, mountains, and beaches. While a car is the most convenient way to explore the park, it is possible to visit without one.
Public Transportation
The best way to get to Olympic National Park without a car is to fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). From SEA, you can take the Olympic Shuttle to Port Angeles. The shuttle runs several times a day and takes about two hours.
Once you are in Port Angeles, you can take the Olympic Bus Lines to various destinations in the park. The bus lines operate a variety of routes, including to Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent, and Sol Duc Hot Springs.
Hiking
If you are a hiker, you can explore much of the park without a car. The park has over 700 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
Some of the most popular hiking trails in the park include:
- Hurricane Hill Trail: This trail offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.
- Lake Crescent Trail: This trail follows the shores of Lake Crescent, a beautiful glacial lake.
- Sol Duc Falls Trail: This trail leads to a series of waterfalls in the Sol Duc Valley.
Other Activities
In addition to hiking, there are a variety of other activities that you can enjoy in Olympic National Park without a car. These activities include:
- Fishing: The park has a variety of fishing opportunities, including freshwater and saltwater fishing.
- Camping: The park has several campgrounds, where you can camp for free or for a fee.
- Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, deer, and eagles.
Planning Your Trip
If you are planning to visit Olympic National Park without a car, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Be prepared for a lot of walking. If you are not used to hiking, you should start with shorter trails and gradually work your way up to longer trails.
- Pack for all types of weather. The weather in Olympic National Park can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain, snow, and sunshine.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.
With a little planning, you can enjoy all that Olympic National Park has to offer without a car.
