12 Fascinating Things You Probably Didn’t Know About The Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park in Washington offers diverse landscapes, including mountains, rainforests, and coastline, with unique features and historical sites.
Olympic National Park is a magical national park to visit in Washington. Between the Olympic Mountains, temperate rainforests, and rocky Pacific coastline, it's almost like experiencing three different parks all in one. Most people are pretty familiar with some areas in the park (like the Hall of Mosses Trail) - but here are some fun facts that you may not have heard before.
If you’re planning a visit to this incredible national park, there’s no better time to visit than during National Park Week. Learn all about this celebration of America’s great outdoors — including fee-free days throughout the year!
1. There are 100,000 more acres of wilderness in the Olympic National Park than the entire acreage of Rhode Island.
The Olympic Wilderness encompasses 876,669 acres, while Rhode Island is only 776,957 acres. This makes Olympic National Park a prime location for things to do outside in Washington!
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2. One of the park's most incredible historical structures nearly fell into a river.
The Enchanted Valley Chalet was built back in 1930-31 and has been a classic destination for hikers ever since. In just the last couple of years, it was moved 8 feet east from its original location along the bank of the river, after water eroded the foundation underneath the old building.
3. The Olympic Mountains formed over 30 million years ago.
Mount Olympus may be the tallest of the Olympics, but it's hidden behind other mountains to the west, making it impossible to see from Seattle or any other towns on the peninsula. The best place to find a cozy viewpoint is from Hurricane Ridge.
6. The coastal region of the park is 73 miles long.
It's an 8-mile hike to this picture-perfect point on the southern end of Shi Shi Beach. Wander around and you'll see over 30 unique sea stack formations, as well as small caves, arches, and tide pools. If you're looking for unique hiking trails in Washington, this is one of the best.
8. The Hoh Rainforest gets nearly 140-170 inches of precipitation every year.
That's 12-14 feet of annual rain! The crazy amount of moisture results in the lush, green canopy along with moss and fern-blanketed surfaces everywhere. This beautiful and uncommon landscape is yet another reason Olympic National Park is one of the best parks in Washington.
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9. There are 611 miles of trails in the park to explore...
Pictured is the boardwalk on the Cape Alava Trail. Going on this scenic 6-mile hike out to the western-most point of the country is like experiencing a dream. If you want to experience some of the best hiking trails in Washington, Olympic National Park is a great destination.
10. ...and over 3,000+ miles of rivers and streams.
Over a hundred lakes and 13 rivers are located within the park's boundaries. It's a perfect place for swimmers, boaters, fishers, or just being out by the water, providing so many things to do outside in Washington. Pictured is the Dosewallips River.
11. Olympic Marmots can’t be found anywhere else in the world.
These adorable rodents can only be seen on the middle elevations of the Olympic Peninsula. They're about the size of a typical house cat, with a long, distinct bushy tail. They usually prefer eating flowering plants, like glacier lilies.
12. The Olympic National Park is one of the most popular in the country and typically sees over 30 million visitors every year.
I spent several years living in Idaho’s panhandle, right in the heart of the Palouse, and less than a mile from the Idaho and Washington state line. I’ve since moved away but still find myself longing for the rolling hills, the beautiful skies, and breathtaking colors throughout the year. While living in this area, my family would frequently make the drive to Spokane to attend countless doctor appointments for my son who was born with a few health challenges. On our drive, one of my favorite small towns to drive through was Colfax, home to Steptoe Butte State Park.
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Colfax is a small community that immediately captures your heart. It’s located in the Palouse and is surrounded by the beauty this region is known for. It is certainly small, with less than 3,000 residents, but is big on charm.
Rolling farmland on the Palouse in springtime, framed by multi-colored wildflowers out of focus in foreground at Steptoe Butte State Park in eastern Washington State.
Colfax, Washington also has many claims to fame. For example, downtown Colfax is a National Register Historic District due to its many historic buildings that date from the 1890s to the 1930s. It is also home to the former St. Ignatius Hospital, which has since been abandoned and is believed to be one of the most haunted places in Washington.
Colfax is also home to Steptoe Butte State Park, one beautiful Washington park that I cannot stop thinking about.
Eastern Washington state is an agricultural area often referred to as “The Palouse” that boasts of many wonderful vintage old barns.
Steptoe Butte State Park, also known as Steptoe Butte State Park Heritage Site, is a National Natural Landmark. Here, you can enjoy incredible views of Steptoe Butte, a 3,612-foot tall quartzite butte that stands out among the rolling hills of the Palouse. It’s a unique, simple shape, and if you stand on top of it, you can see for miles into both Idaho and Oregon.
This is a day-use-only park and camping is not allowed. However, it is truly the perfect day trip in Washington. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the views while you eat at the picnic area, which features multiple picnic tables and barbecue braziers. You can also walk around and read the interpretive signs that tell all about the area's history.
If you wish to hike Steptoe Butte, put on your hiking boots and grab your gear because you’ll have a 6.4-mile, out-and-back trail to conquer. Fortunately, the trail is not too difficult as it winds its way to the top of the butte. Just make sure you have your camera ready — you don’t want to miss these views. This is a photographer’s paradise.
Keep in mind that to visit Steptoe Butte State Park in Washington, you will need a Discover Pass. Day passes are $10. The park is open from 6 a.m. to dusk each day, and during the winter, it is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. If visiting in the winter, be aware that some portions of the park may be closed due to snow and ice.
If you find yourself in eastern Washington, a visit to the small town of Colfax is a must. There is so much to love about this community, including the beautiful and bucket-list-worthy Steptoe Butte State Park. When you visit, you’ll quickly understand why I can’t stop thinking about it.
For more information, visit the Washington State Parks website. You can also visit the City of Colfax official website for more about this delightful community.
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Have you spent time in Colfax, Washington, or Steptoe Butte State Park? What was your experience like? What are some of your favorite small towns in Washington? Let me know! I’d love to hear from you.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
