Joe’s Visit To Olympic National Park
February 18, 2025
Exploring Olympic National Park: From Mountains to Beaches
Remember when Libby Gifford raved about Olympic National Park being her all-time favorite? Well, we took that as a challenge and just wrapped up an epic two-day adventure through its jaw-dropping landscapes. Spoiler alert: Libby was absolutely right.
From the snow-capped peaks of Hurricane Ridge to the rugged coastline of Rialto and Ruby Beach, we packed in as much as possible—including hidden gems like Crescent Lake, unforgettable hikes, and some close encounters with wildlife (hello, bald eagles and sea lions!).
If you’re planning your own Olympic National Park getaway, we’ve got you covered with insider tips on accommodations, must-see spots, and the things we wish we knew before we went. And yes, we’ll get into tide pooling, because if you’re not checking out sea stars and anemones, are you even doing this trip right?
Oh, and stick around for our “Gear of the Day” pick—a must-have for your next outdoor adventure.
What’s Inside Today’s Episode:
- Libby’s Favorite Park: Why Olympic National Park tops her list.
- Getting There: The journey to the park and what to expect.
- Crescent Lake: The perfect mix of serenity and scenery.
- Cape Flattery Adventure: Standing at the northwesternmost point of the U.S. mainland.
- Tide Pooling at Rialto Beach: Why you need to bring waterproof shoes (trust us).
- Staying at Kalaloch Lodge: A scenic spot with interesting pricing.
- The Iconic Tree of Life: The gravity-defying tree you need to see.
- Ruby Beach & Other Coastal Stops: Unbeatable views and moody PNW vibes.
- Lake Alt & Historical Hikes: Trails, history, and why you should bring extra snacks.
- Wildlife Encounters: Bald eagles, sea lions, and more surprises.
- Olympia Side Trip: Pizza wins and losses, parking struggles.
- Travel Tips & Lessons Learned: What to know before you go.
- Gear of the Day: Our top pick for making your next adventure even better.
Key Takeaways from the Episode:
✔️ Olympic National Park is ridiculously diverse. Snowy mountains, lush rainforests, and stunning beaches—all in one trip.
✔️ Plan your accommodations wisely. Some spots are worth the price, others… not so much.
✔️ Tide pooling is a must. Just don’t forget waterproof shoes unless you enjoy ice-cold toes.
✔️ Wildlife sightings are next-level. Bring binoculars—you never know what you’ll see.
✔️ Olympia has meh pizza. Parking, however, is another story altogether.