Are you looking for fun activities to do on the Olympic Peninsula this Spring? Well, look no further! We have taken the advice from expert locals all around the area to bring to you the top 5 Spring sites in your area. Springtime in the Olympic Peninsula is the prettiest time of year.
Quinault Rain forest and Kalaloch Beaches
From coast to forest the Quinault Valley is the southwestern gateway to the Olympic Peninsula and Olympic National Park. It’s extraordinary centerpiece is Lake Quinault which offers so many activities such as easy swim access, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and of course camping.
Beaches around the rainforest include Ruby Beach, Pebble Beach, and Kalaloch Beach. Quinault Rain Forest averages 12 feet of rain per year which makes for ideal climate to grow conifer trees.
It was also home to the largest western red cedar which unfortunately fell down in July of 2016. Don’t forget to see Gatton Creek bridge on your way through.
Forks, La Push, and Hoh Rain Forest
Forks is a quaint little town that is known for its fame from the Twilight film that was taken place here. So many activities! Visit the Timber Museum and learn about local history dating all the way back to the 1870’s.
You can visit local beaches and outlying cabins nearby. Did someone say fishing adventures? Look no further the Bogachiel, Hoh, Sol Duc, and Calawah Rivers offer world class fishing when the salmon and steelhead are running.
La Push is known around the Olympic Peninsula by many. It has over seventy miles of protected coastline that gives you access to a beachfront resort, RV parks, and restaurants. There are also many hiking trails to enjoy around this beautiful area. Hoh Rain Forest is a dense rain forest valley of the Glacier fed Hoh River.
These grounds can expect anywhere from 12-16 feet of rain a year. The word “Hoh” is a native American term meaning “fast moving water”. See it’s river and all of the beautiful nature it has thriving in it such as, elk, eagles, and otters.
Port Angeles and Lake Crescent
Not only home to your local dental office Eleven Eleven Dental, Port Angeles is known to many visitors. We are nestled between the Olympic Mountain Range and Strait of Juan de Fuca.
This area is of course known for their wonderful outdoor adventures but let’s not forget the downtown happenings! The city offers great places to drink, eat, and shop! The local Pier has magnificent views of ships and the city of victoria Canada. Take the MV Coho ferry straight over to Canada and enjoy a weekend away.
Visit art on the town, a local display of over 56 outdoor sculptures. Half an hour outside of town on highway 101 is idyllic Lake Crescent. Twelve miles long in length the Lake is known for it’s very deep and clear waters.
On the South Shore is where you can find the historic park lodge that was built in 1916. Nearby is two waterfalls, Marymere Falls and Madison Falls and both are beautifully pathed.
Sequim and Dungeness Valley
With it’s small town charm Sequim was named “2017 Best Northwestern Small Town” by USA Today and one of Frommer’s “Best places to go in 2019”. Sequim truly captures the atmosphere of a small town feel with a friendly community.
The shops downtown will take your breath away with all of their creativity and charm. Visit during one of Sequim’s events or festivals and you won’t be disappointed. Due to the fantastic “rain shadow” caused by the Olympic Mountains, Sequim is one of the driest places in Western Washington.
Averaging just 16 inches in rainfall per year this is the best location for outdoor adventures. You can hike, bike the discovery trail, kayak, golf, bird watch, visit the Sequim Farmers Market, walk to the Dungeness Spit lighthouse, sail from the John Wayne Marina, and much much more!
Port Townsend
Last but not least and named one of the “Top 10 coolest Towns in America” by Budget Travel, Port Townsend has gained a reputation of beautiful charm as a Victorian seaport.
Known for its magnificent ferry ride Port Townsend also captures the hearts of many with it’s historic homes, art and music venues, parks, beaches and trails. Come for a wide range of festivals celebrating anything from jazz to Shakespeare.
Let’s not forget boating, kayaking, cycling, and all the foot trails the town has to offer. Fort Worden State Park is surrounded by the sea and mountains.
It is known for its natural beauty and the influence of it’s military past. Shop , stay , and eat with Port Townsend’s historic hotels and welcoming B&B’s. Browse the art galleries, boutique shops, and delicious eateries during your stay. We hope you enjoy your time in the Olympic Peninsula.
*We are so fortunate to live in a place with so much beauty all around us. All photos with the exception of the map were taken by Dr. Birch! ☺