6 Scenic Washington Drives Around the Olympic Peninsula You Can’t Miss

If you’re looking for a way to experience some of Washington’s most stunning landscapes, driving around the Olympic Peninsula is a great choice. The area offers a mix of lush rainforests, rugged coastlines, and mountain views that you can enjoy right from your car.

These scenic drives let you explore diverse natural beauty without the hassle of complicated planning, making it easy to soak in the best sights at your own pace. Whether you want quiet turns through forested roads or ocean views that take your breath away, there’s something for every mood and interest here.

Olympic National Park

When you drive through Olympic National Park, you’ll find a mix of landscapes that feel like different worlds all packed into one place. Snow-capped mountains sit near lush rain forests, and there’s plenty of rugged coastline to explore. It’s a great spot if you want to see a bit of everything nature has to offer.

The park covers nearly a million acres, so there’s lots to discover. Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife watching, or just soaking in epic views, you’ll find plenty of options. The rainforest areas are especially unique, with towering old-growth trees and thick greenery everywhere you look.

Along the coast, you can enjoy more than 70 miles of wild shoreline. These beaches are often quiet and perfect for walks or taking photos. The variety of ecosystems in one place means your drive around the park is never dull.

Rating: 4.8 (10496 reviews)
Location: 3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362
Contact: (360) 565-3130
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Olympic National Forest

When you drive through Olympic National Forest, you’ll experience a mix of landscapes. The forest stretches across more than 600,000 acres, from sea level to the Olympic Mountains’ mid-elevations. You can find temperate rainforests, mountain ridges, waterfalls, and beaches all in one place.

This area offers plenty of outdoor activities. You can camp, hike, fish, or simply enjoy the views. The variety of environments means you might be walking through a dense rainforest one moment and spotting an ocean fjord the next.

The forest has been around since 1897 and was originally called the Olympic Forest Reserve. It’s known for its natural beauty and the many ways you can explore it. Whether you’re after a short stop or a longer adventure, you’ll find something worth seeing.

If you want to plan your trip or get more info, the forest’s official website has resources and updates. It’s a great way to make the most of your visit.

Rating: 4.8 (3885 reviews)
Location: Washington 98363
Contact: (360) 956-2300
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Quinault rain forest loop drive

The Quinault Rain Forest Loop Drive is a 31-mile scenic route that takes you around Lake Quinault and through parts of Olympic National Park. You’ll get plenty of chances to stop, stretch your legs, and enjoy waterfalls, wildlife, and peaceful forest views.

As you drive, watch for Roosevelt elk, black-tail deer, and bald eagles. The route offers many spots to snap photos of towering trees, mountain views, and the Quinault River. It’s a great way to see a variety of nature without leaving your car for long.

The drive usually takes about two hours, depending on how often you stop. Along the way, you can explore short hikes or just soak in the fresh air. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, nature-filled outing.

Rating: 4.6 (40 reviews)
Location: N Shore Rd, Washington
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Salmon Cascades

If you’re exploring the Olympic Peninsula, Salmon Cascades is a spot worth adding to your drive. It’s nestled near Port Angeles, offering a peaceful natural setting that highlights the region’s forest beauty.

You’ll find easy trails alongside the fresh water where salmon make their way upriver. It’s a great place to watch these fish during their migration seasons and enjoy some quiet time outdoors.

This area is part of a national forest, so expect lush greenery and well-maintained paths. It’s perfect for a quick stop to stretch your legs or a short hike to soak in nature.

The accessibility and natural charm make it a popular spot, so you won’t be alone, but it doesn’t feel crowded either.

Rating: 4.8 (611 reviews)
Location: Port Angeles, WA 98363

Obstruction Point Trailhead

If you’re looking for a scenic stop with access to stunning views, Obstruction Point Trailhead is a great choice. Located near Port Angeles, it offers you a chance to explore one of the highest points reachable by vehicle in Olympic National Park.

From the trailhead, you can head out on several hiking routes that lead into subalpine meadows and offer panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. The trail is well-liked for its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings, making it a nice spot for both casual hikers and experienced outdoors folks.

Keep in mind that the area is part of a large wilderness with diverse ecosystems. Whether you’re hiking or just stopping by, the fresh mountain air and the lush landscape make for a refreshing break from the road.

Rating: 4.9 (93 reviews)
Location: Port Angeles, WA 98362
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Merriman Falls

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy nature, Merriman Falls is worth a visit. Nestled in the Olympic region near Quinault, it’s a beautiful scenic spot where you can hear the sound of rushing water as the falls cascade down.

The area offers plenty of opportunities for a relaxing walk surrounded by trees and water. It’s a great place to stretch your legs while enjoying views that capture the essence of the Pacific Northwest’s lush environment.

The falls themselves are accessible and provide a nice backdrop for photos or a quiet break during your drive. You’ll find it a calm spot, popular with visitors who appreciate scenic beauty without a large crowd.

If you want to plan ahead or check conditions, the USDA Forest Service page for Olympic National Forest is a helpful resource.

Rating: 4.8 (380 reviews)
Location: Quinault, WA
Contact: (360) 288-2525
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