MileHacker Logo
Sustainable Travel in Olympic National Park

Sustainable Travel in Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park Pacific Northwest, USA Travel Guide

Environmental Significance

Olympic National Park is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, signifying its global ecological significance.

Conservation Successes

The Elwha River Restoration, the largest dam removal project in U.S. History, restored the river's natural flow and salmon runs.

Wilderness Protection

Over 95% of the park carries a wilderness designation, the highest level of protection against human impact.

Environmental Stewardship

Conscious choices lead to a positive impact on the park's fragile ecosystems.

Waste & Water Management

Your practices with waste and water are consequential in preserving natural resources.

Eco-Conscious Habits

  • Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out everything you pack in.
  • Recycling bins are limited; plan to carry out recyclables to gateway towns.
  • Conserve water, even with the region's rain; seasonal droughts occur.
  • Reduce waste by bringing reusable water bottles and containers from Package Free Shop.

Supporting Green Tourism

Your choices in accommodation and activities contribute to sustainability.

Sustainable Travel Choices

  • Support eco-friendly accommodations; look for certifications like those on Ecobnb.
  • Consider ethical tour operators such as G Adventures.
  • Seek businesses that prioritize energy efficiency, waste reduction, and local sourcing.
  • Offset your flight and car rental emissions through programs like Terrapass.

Observe animals responsibly and maintain a safe distance.

Best Practices

  • Never feed wild animals; it disrupts their natural behaviors.
  • Use telephoto lenses for photography, staying a safe distance away.
  • Stay on marked trails to avoid disturbing habitats.
  • Learn about local wildlife before your visit to ensure a respectful encounter.

Ethical Purchases

Purchase items that align with responsible consumption.

Conscious Consumerism

  • Consider sustainable outdoor gear from companies like Patagonia.
  • Look for locally produced crafts and goods; inquire about sourcing.
  • Support organizations that contribute to conservation, such as The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).
  • Choose products that minimize environmental harm and uphold fair labor practices.

Community Engagement

Supporting Local

Support locally owned businesses in gateway towns like Port Angeles, Forks, and Sequim.

Park Donations

Consider donating to Washington's National Park Fund (WNPF) or the National Park Service directly for park support.

Support WNPF

Ethical Travel Reminder

Every choice you make on your journey can contribute positively to the preservation of natural wonders and the welfare of local communities. Travel with intention.

Cultural Sensitivity

Tribal Collaborations

The park works with local Native American tribes whose ancestral lands include park areas.

Preservation Efforts

  • Collaborations protect cultural sites and support tribal heritage.
  • Tribes include Quinault, Hoh, Makah, Quileute, Elwha Klallam, and Jamestown S'Klallam.
  • These efforts contribute to cultural preservation.
  • Learn about tribal history at the Makah Cultural and Research Center.

Respectful Interactions

When visiting adjacent tribal lands, observe local laws and customs.

Community Guidelines

  • Respect tribal laws and customs on lands like Makah Reservation or Quileute lands.
  • Purchase any necessary permits, like the Makah Recreation Pass.
  • Ask permission before photographing tribal members or private property.
  • Show respect for privacy and traditions.

Economic Impact

Your choices in travel expenditure positively influence local economies.

Community Tourism

Support local businesses, restaurants, and shops in gateway towns to bolster local economies.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Seek locally produced crafts and goods; inquire about sourcing and fair labor practices.

Donations

Support park conservation efforts through donations to Washington's National Park Fund (WNPF).

Avoid Harmful Practices

Avoid any activities that exploit natural resources, wildlife, or local communities. Be conscious of your footprint and seek positive contributions.

Mindful Engagement

Your visit is an opportunity for cultural exchange. Approach interactions with an open mind and respect for diverse traditions and ways of life.