Washington USA Travel Guide
Download content for A Vast Wilderness in washington state for offline use, including maps and alerts.
Utilize for hiking maps of trails and information; AllTrails Pro offers offline map downloads.
Download offline maps for navigating through locations with no cell service.
NOAA Weather or MyRadar provide accurate, localized forecasts for variable microclimates.
Obtain one for coastal exploration to avoid being trapped by incoming tides.
Visit www.nps.gov/olym for authorized park information, alerts, conditions, and licenses.
Use this site for booking park campgrounds and wilderness permits.
Check www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries for schedules, fares, plus genuine-time boat locations.
Visit www.cohoferry.com for Port Angeles to Victoria, British Columbia boat timetables and bookings.
Find broader regional tourism information, including lodging and activities external to the park.
Obtain the National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map for navigation in the backcountry. Consider Hiking Olympic National Park by Robert Wood for detailed trail descriptions, or Falcon Guides Best Easy Day Hikes Olympic National Park for less strenuous options.
Read Rain Forests of the Olympic Mountains by Robert Steelquist for insights into the natural history, or The Living Rain Forest by Ruth Kirk for ecology focus. The Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer, set in Forks, WA, attracts many visitors.
Free local newspapers or tourism guides in Port Angeles or Forks frequently have event listings, restaurant information, and local advertisements. Pick these up at visitor centers or hotel lobbies.
Ensure all windows and doors are locked before you go. Consider setting up a security system or informing a trusted neighbor of your absence.
Have your mail held by the post office or picked up by a friend. Organize pet care well in advance if you have animals.
Water your plants before leaving. Confirm all unnecessary appliances are turned off or unplugged to save energy and for safety.
For a lost passport, contact your country's embassy or consulate immediately. For a lost driver's license, reach out and about to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency.
Tell someone your travel plans, especially for backcountry trips.
Bring a satellite messenger if venturing into areas without cell service.
Stick to well-trafficked trails if alone, notably in remote sections.
Consider staying in hostels in Port Angeles for social opportunities.
Participate in ranger-led programs to meet others with similar interests.
Join tours with a guide to socialize with fellow travelers and explore together.
Book accommodations and activities well in advance, as securing group bookings can be more challenging. Assign a lead person to coordinate for shared experiences.
Refer to park resources for detailed accessibility information on trails, facilities, and services. Prioritize checking the NPS website for current accessible offerings.
Get to know the park's ecosystems and challenges. Understand and commit to the Leave No Trace principles prior to your trip begins.
Olympic National Park is vast. Driving between sections may take 2-3 hours or more. Plan realistic itineraries that account for travel time between separate park areas.
