What you should know about Winter in Olympic National Park
Chantelle KincyAre you planning a visit to Olympic National Park this winter? You’re in for a treat! The park is full of spectacular natural beauty and there are lots of fun activities to do during the cold months.
From snowshoeing and skiing to storm watching from the beach, I’ll show you some of the best things to do while visiting Olympic National Park in the winter months.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or just want to take it easy, there’s something for everyone at this iconic national park. So bundle up and get ready for an unforgettable trip!
Where is Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park is located along the Olympic Peninsula in the state of Washington, USA. It encompasses more than 922,000 acres of wilderness, including old-growth forests, subalpine meadows, waterfalls, and glacier-capped peaks.
The park extends from Puget Sound to the Pacific Ocean and is known for its diverse ecosystems and amazing views.
When is winter in Olympic National Park?
While this part of Washington State is known for having rain year-round, the winter season is considered to be from mid-November through April.
What is winter like in Olympic National Park?
Because Olympic National Park is so diverse, the winter conditions can vary greatly. In places like Hurricane Ridge, you’ll find snow, the beaches can be moody and misty, and the temperate rainforests will likely have (you guessed it) rain.
Some parts of the Rainforests may have snow from time to time as well.
Every winter, Olympic National Park receives exceptionally high levels of precipitation. Most years, the rainforest experiences an average of 140 inches of rainfall, while the coast can get 100 inches.
In low elevations, temperatures remain cool yet mild; however, they can sometimes dip below freezing. On higher grounds such as Hurricane Ridge where 30-35 feet of snow accumulates annually.
Winter Temperatures in Olympic National Park
| High Temp F• | Low Temp F• | Precipitation Days | |
| Nov | 32 | 22 | 18 |
| Dec | 27 | 18 | 17 |
| Jan | 27 | 18 | 18 |
| Feb | 31 | 18 | 14 |
| Mar | 36 | 20 | 18 |
Is Olympic National Park open in winter?
Parts of Olympic National Park will remain open year-round. There is always a chance that severe weather or construction can cause unexpected closures, so I always recommend checking the NPS website prior to your trip so you are aware of current conditions.
Although most of the areas of the park remain accessible, there are few ranger-led programs and many facilities are closed.
Hurricane Ridge in Winter
As long as the weather allows, Hurricane Ridge Road will be open from Friday to Sunday during winter. However, keep in mind that road closures can occur due to inclement weather and avalanche risks.
Olympic National Park Beaches in Winter
When winter arrives, it unleashes its full potential with gusty winds and tumultuous waves battering against the shore. Tides become more powerful during this season, bringing in larger swells of water to create a dramatic seascape.
Olympic National Park Rainforests in the Winter
When the snow starts to melt, it’s time to explore the wondrous Hoh and Quinault rainforests! Winter is particularly wet in these parts – but with an average of 12 feet of rainfall annually, that means deep emerald greens throughout.
Things to do in Olympic National Park in Winter
Hurricane Ridge
Venture to Hurricane Ridge during the colder months and experience all that Olympic National Park has to offer.
But beware, this area is known for its extreme winter conditions such as sudden storms, whiteouts, and avalanches – so plan accordingly!
Located just a stone’s throw away from Port Angeles, you’ll have access to some of the best winter recreation activities around.
Hurricane Ridge Road is open on the weekends throughout the winter (weather permitting). The road opens at 9 am and closes to uphill traffic at 4 pm.
The visitor center will be open from 10-4.
You must carry chains to go up Hurricane Ridge Road even if you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
Hurricane Ridge Road is the only way to access Hurricane Ridge by car. This road can experience closures due to extreme weather and change without much notice.
Head over to the Hurricane Ridge website to find out more about activities at Hurricane Ridge.
Here are some things to do at Hurricane Ridge in the Winter:
Snowshoe with a Ranger
Saturdays at 1:30 throughout the winter, you have the opportunity to snowshoe with a Park Ranger.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of nature and explore the park with a Ranger on a 1.5-hour snowshoe walk.
Sign-up starts at the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center at 1 pm and is limited to 20 visitors.
Gear up for any kind of weather- snow, wind, rain, or cold -with layers of warm clothing and waterproof shoes. Don’t forget to pack hats, mittens, sunscreen, and glasses as well!
Snowshoes will be provided along with instructions on how to use them properly.
Downhill Skiing, Tubing, and Snowboarding
The Hurricane Ridge Downhill Ski, Snowboard, and Tubing Area has two rope tows, a Poma lift, and a tubing park, and is operated by the Hurricane Winter Sports Club.
This area is open Friday through Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm, and Mondays which are holidays (MLK Day and Presidents Day).
Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
Enthusiasts of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing have a wide selection of choices available to them, from the inviting flatlands near the Visitor Center up to more extreme areas in the wild backcountry.
All skiers and snowboarders venturing away from the Hurricane Ridge vicinity are required to register at the registration box in the entrance of the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center.
Olympic National Park Rainforests in Winter
As long as you are prepared for wet weather, exploring Olympic rainforests can be an incredible experience.
During the summer season, the Hoh Rainforest gets extremely crowded. I love the quiet solitude you can find here in the winter. The countless shades of green are incredible.
Some of the most popular hikes in Olympic National Park can be found in the Hoh, Quinault, and Queets rainforests.
Don’t miss the Hall of Mosses, it is one of my favorite hikes in the park. This easy access hike will make you feel like you’ve stepped right into a fairy tale within just a short distance.
Olympic National Park Beaches
Olympic National Park is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Washington State. In the winter, especially when it is stormy, visiting these beaches can be a unique and exhilarating experience.
Spending time on Coastal beaches such as La Push, second beach, and Ruby Beach is a great way to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the Pacific Northwest, if you’re lucky, you may even see bald eagles soaring overhead.
Of course, you need to be safe and use good sense. Don’t head to the beach during extreme storms or king tides.
Storms can turn any beach hike into a dangerous excursion, as large waves become overwhelming and powerful.
Even seemingly small streams that are usually simple to traverse can be full of rushing water deep enough to reach your waist or higher during storms – making it even more hazardous.
Visit Kalaloch Beach to see the famous Tree of Life. Visit Beach 4 at low tide to see some of the most incredible tidepools filled with anemones and colorful starfish.
Head up to Rialto beach to experience the most unique beach in the park, if you can go during low tide, you can even hike to hole in the wall. That is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.
How much time should I spend in Olympic National Park in winter?
3 days in Olympic National Park is a good amount of time to see all the different areas and experience the best parts of each one.
When visiting in the winter always have a backup plan in case the weather makes your initial plan unsafe or impossible.
What should I bring to Olympic National Park in Winter?
- Tire Chains
- Download the free NPS app prior to your trip so you have maps and information even if you don’t have service
- Waterproof shoes or boots
- Dry shoes to change into after your adventures
- Extra socks
- Waterproof coat
- Beanie, gloves, scarf
- Handwarmers
- Extra food, snacks, and water in case you have to be in your car for longer than expected.
- Extra blankets
- First aid kit
- Flashlight or headlamp
Olympic National Park Winter Safety
- Check the Hurricane Ridge in Winter Twitter account to see if the road to Hurricane Ridge is currently open.
- Wear warm layers and bring along extra clothing and emergency supplies like food, water, and first aid gear. You may want something dry to change into after playing in the snow.
- If you’re visiting Hurricane Ridge, you may have to wait in your car at the Heart O’ the Hills entrance station if the parking lot is full.
- Be on the lookout for cornices and other signs of avalanche danger. Learn more about traveling in snowy areas and avalanche safety at https://go.nps.gov/OlympicSnow
- Always have a backup plan! Olympic is a big and diverse park. If you can’t visit Hurricane Ridge, you can still enjoy rivers, forests, lakes, and the beautiful Pacific Coast!
- Check the tides, never underestimate the power of the ocean. You can check the tides here.
Where to Stay near Olympic National Park during Winter
You likely won’t want to camp during winter, so finding a hotel to cozy up in and make your base is a good idea.
If you are planning on spending time at Hurricane Ridge, you will want to stay in Port Angeles.
One of the best places to stay in Port Angeles is Olympic Lodge by Ayers. This beautiful hotel has a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and free parking.
➡️ Find deals for Olympic Lodge by Clicking Here
Near the rainforest, Lake Quinault Lodge is a fantastic option.
Lake Quinault Lodge is a gorgeous lodge settled on a beautiful property with lake views.
➡️ Find Deals for Lake Quinault Lodge Here
If you are considering spending time at the more southern end of the park and the beaches there, Kalaloch Lodge is your best bet. It is right near the tree of life and has gorgeous views of the ocean and sunsets.
➡️ Read more about Kalaloch Lodge Here
Final Thoughts on Olympic National Park in Winter
Winter is a magical time to explore Olympic National Park. From the stunning beaches of Kalaloch and Rialto to the snow-covered trails at Hurricane Ridge, there are endless opportunities for adventure here.
Whether it’s exploring tidepools or hiking through forests blanketed in white, you will certainly create memories that last a lifetime when visiting Olympic during winter.
Be sure to come prepared with all the necessary supplies and safety gear so your trip can be as enjoyable as possible!
With its breathtaking beauty and diverse landscapes, Olympic National Park is an incredible destination year round – but it is especially a great place during wintertime!
