What To Know
- Whether you’re a day hiker, a seasoned backpacker, or a nature enthusiast seeking solitude, this comprehensive guide will provide all the information you need to plan your visit seamlessly.
- If you’re planning a short visit or prefer not to purchase a pass, you can consider the following alternatives.
- Can I purchase a pass at the park entrance after hours.
Embarking on an adventure in the awe-inspiring Olympic National Park, it’s essential to understand the park’s pass requirements. Whether you’re a day hiker, a seasoned backpacker, or a nature enthusiast seeking solitude, this comprehensive guide will provide all the information you need to plan your visit seamlessly.
Types of Passes
Olympic National Park offers two types of passes:
- Day Pass: Valid for seven consecutive days and grants access to all areas of the park, including roads, trails, and beaches.
- Annual Pass: Valid for one year from the date of purchase and covers unlimited visits to the park.
Pass Fees
- Day Pass: $30 per vehicle (up to 15 people)
- Annual Pass: $55 per vehicle (up to 15 people)
Where to Purchase Passes
Passes can be purchased at the following locations:
- Park Entrance Stations: Hoh Rainforest, Hurricane Ridge, and Quinault Rain Forest
- Authorized Vendors: Nearby businesses and visitor centers
- Online: Through the National Park Service website
Exemptions and Discounts
Certain individuals and groups are eligible for pass exemptions or discounts:
- Active Military: Free admission with valid military ID
- 4th Graders: Free admission through the Every Kid in a Park program
- Senior Citizens (62+): Discounted Annual Pass for $20
- Access Pass: Free or discounted pass for individuals with permanent disabilities
When a Pass is Required
A pass is required for all vehicles entering Olympic National Park, including passenger vehicles, motorcycles, and RVs. The following activities also require a pass:
- Hiking on designated trails
- Camping in designated campgrounds
- Visiting beaches and picnic areas
- Fishing and boating in park waters
Pass Display
Purchased passes should be displayed on the front dashboard of your vehicle. Failure to display a valid pass may result in a citation.
Alternatives to a Park Pass
If you’re planning a short visit or prefer not to purchase a pass, you can consider the following alternatives:
- Explore the Park’s Gateway Communities: Many charming towns surround the park, offering access to stunning views and recreational opportunities without requiring a pass.
- Hike on Trails Outside the Park: Several trails in the surrounding Olympic Mountains National Forest are accessible without a pass.
- Visit State Parks: Nearby state parks, such as Lake Quinault and Dosewallips State Park, offer similar natural beauty and recreational activities without a park pass.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Is the Annual Pass valid for multiple vehicles?
A: No, the Annual Pass is only valid for one vehicle.
Q: Can I use my Annual Pass from another National Park in Olympic National Park?
A: Yes, the Annual Pass is valid for all National Parks in the United States.
Q: Are there any areas of the park where a pass is not required?
A: Yes, the following areas are accessible without a pass:
- The town of Forks
- The beaches along the Pacific Coast Highway
- The Elwha River Valley
Q: How long does it take to get a pass online?
A: Passes can be purchased online and printed immediately.
Q: Can I purchase a pass at the park entrance after hours?
A: No, passes cannot be purchased after hours. Visitors should purchase passes in advance or during regular business hours.
