olympic national park visitor center

NW_biologist

If you're not familiar with the park or the peninsula, it's worth your time to stop here before going into the park. They have the typical informative rangers on staff, all the permits, guide books, maps, and stuff that you'd need to explore the park and surrounding area. I've enjoyed a number of the evening lecture programs held here over the years.

914cc

Very nice, helpful, informative staff on hand to talk about this magnificent park and it's amazing features. I visit the Park on a daily basis! National Parks have been offering lots of deals to visit the Parks, so call ahead to find out what days/holidays/ages don't have to pay fees.

Tdrake

We drove up to Hurricane Ridge! What a view! There are lots of places to pull over and take pictures of the amazing view. Highly recommend.

AnneF427

While it is winter there are still plenty to do. Has some great views despite the low clouds.Saw plenty of deer and eagles/ Great place any time of the year.

cheljohnson

This is a very nice visitor center. The staff is friendly and willing to answer any questions you might have.

Brittany_11_10

Incredible scenery throughout the park, great views along the ridge, deer alongside the road, snow to play in (even in May!--it snowed while we were ascending, and then stopped, but enough had fallen in a short amount of time that we could have a little snowball fight in one of the big fields!). Awesome day in a beautiful park. The visitor center is helpful.

Hungrymarmot

They'll help you explore the majestic park no matter what you're looking for. From backpacking to bird watching, they will aid your discovery. Friendly too.

donnacL7256KK

Very helpful. Pointed out many options. Offered a lot of tips for day trips. Very knowledgeable about what was available locally as well as several hours away.

gish0503

Wonderful drive up, although this trip we went right after a major snow. Even though we did not see the view from the very top, the other view points were spectacular.

2Kat2014

The personal were welcoming and well infomed about the area. You can get passes to the park here. The center is full of displays and quality merchandise to buy about the Olympic National Park. There is no fee for you to enter the visitor center and wander around looking at displays. You really should visit the Olympic National Park Visitor Center if you are in the area or before going up to Hurricane Ridge, The Visitor Center is right below the rangers station. which is the entrance to the road, to Hurricane Ridge.

WilliDream

First allow plenty of time to just be in this awesome place. Take in the air, feel it on your skin. Now, get yourself off any concrete or pavement and walk among the forest trees and ferns. How does the ground feel? This is a difficult place to describe, more like experience. So, I will just say - Go and experience!Arrive at the Hoh forest and walk on either of the easy loop trails. Stop and listen about half way. Afterwards drive along the coast and stop at Ruby Beach and walk out on the beach to see the mist and sea stacks, there is a sensation of floating when the mist/fog rolls in. Enjoy

stevebY6956AZ

The Visitor Center is a great way to orient yourself to the park and see displays of wildlife and plants. The staff are very knowledgeable and able to make valid suggestions to make your park experience great. This is also where you register for hikes, get bear cans, and books and park souvenirs. There is a short hike on the Visitor Center grounds that is easy to do and will introduce you to the beauty of the Olympic National Park. Enjoy!

HappyHikingFamily

The Visitor Center is one small building as you start to drive up towards Hurricane Ridge. It is not inside the park boundary, so there is no entrance fee for going to the visitor center. This is a very good place to get oriented, talk with a ranger, browse a well-stocked and nicely supplied gift shop, and plan various trips and outings. It's also where you register and purchase your backcountry permit, required for overnight trips. On rainy days, this is a great spot to bring the kids, especially the pre-school set, so they can explore the natural world indoors -- through exhibits, discovery boxes, and interesting activities. An original pioneer cabin and a 1/2 mile nature trail are on-site and make for fun outdoor exploring. P. S. The person who said in her review that you drive through in your car and feed the llamas is referring to Olympic Game Farm, not the National Park Visitor Center.

bruceb590

Beautiful National Park! From the rain forests, to peaceful lakes, to the view on Hurricane Ridge. Plan to spend some time and don't rush.

Carl97338

Great staff and good info available. Yes, we did get our park book stamped... The building had displays as well as informational material.