Are you looking for cool things to do at Olympic National Park with kids? Keep scrolling for my top recommendations!
This list of things to do at Olympic National Park with kids was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Each year, I take my son on a mother-son bonding trip somewhere. We have similar travel styles, so it’s nice to be able to escape from the rest of the family and explore at our own pace.
This past summer, we decided to check out Olympic National Park on the Washington State coast. We’ve both lived in the Seattle-area all our lives and it was borderline embarrassing that we hadn’t been yet.
We spent three days driving all around and doing a bunch of stuff, and I figured I’d share the highlights for anyone planning their first trip to Olympic National Park with kids.
13 Cool Things to do at Olympic National Park with Kids
Explore the Hoh Rain Forest
This was really high on my Olympic National Park bucket list! The drive into the park is breathtaking and once you get inside, there are 2 kid-friendly hikes worth doing: Hall of Mosses Trail and Spruce Nature Trail.
The hikes are each about a mile long and it’s easy to do one right after the other. The trailheads are right at the visitor center, which makes it even easier.
I also suggest hitting up the Hoh Rain Cafe and Mercantile on your way out of the park to get hot drinks/food, and maybe a few souvenirs.
We went in late August and arrived at 9:30 a.m., where a sign told us there was potentially a 2-hour wait to enter the park. A lot of cars turned back but we kept going and only waited 5 minutes and easily found parking.
Visit Hurricane Ridge
One of the coolest places to take your family at Olympic National Park is Hurricane Ridge. Known for its stunning panoramic views that will make you feel like you’re on top of the world, Hurricane Ridge is a must-visit.
Here, your family can dive into a variety of activities. During the warmer months, you can explore several kid-friendly hiking trails where you might spot deer, black bears, or marmots. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars for wildlife viewing!
In the winter, Hurricane Ridge transforms into a snowy wonderland. This is the perfect time to try snowshoeing. The park offers guided snowshoe walks where you can learn about the winter ecosystem—just be sure to dress warmly!
After a day full of adventure, you can relax and learn more at the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center. The center provides interesting exhibits on the park’s natural history and a chance to grab some snacks.
Hike to Hole-in-the-Wall at Rialto Beach (plus tidepooling)
Another thrilling adventure for families at Olympic National Park is hiking to Hole-in-the-Wall at Rialto Beach. This spot is famous for its unique rock formations and the magical experience of tidepooling.
There’s a path you can take through some of the forest area, but most people just walk right on the beach. Out of all the beaches we explored, this was my favorite!
During low tide, the ocean pulls back to reveal tide pools teeming with fascinating marine life. Kids love discovering starfish, sea anemones, and crabs among the rocks. It’s like a natural aquarium!
However, while tidepooling is exciting, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Always check the tide schedule before you go to ensure you’re visiting at low tide and have enough time to return safely. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the rocks can be slippery.
It’s really important to check the tide schedule before you go. Otherwise, you might get all the way to the Hole-in-the-Wall and realize you can’t access it.
John’s Beachcombing Museum
If you like quirky roadside attractions, this is definitely one worth stopping by. The owner/operator John has been beachcombing for more than 50 years and he’s collected an insane amount of stuff!
A few highlights include items that washed up after tsunamis in Japan, messages in bottles, and whale bones.
There’s a scavenger hunt for kids to walk around locating items. There’s also a sand play area, which makes this great for families needing to get out of the car for a bit.
You can also see huge outdoor art made of buoys and floats.
Kayaking on Lake Crescent
One of the coolest activities your family can enjoy at Olympic National Park is kayaking on Lake Crescent. This glacier-carved lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, which are so transparent you might even forget you’re on a lake and not a giant outdoor swimming pool!
The scenery around Lake Crescent is just as breathtaking, with lush forests and towering mountains reflecting off the surface of the water, creating a perfect backdrop for your adventure.
If you’re new to kayaking, don’t worry—there are guided kayaking tours that are perfect for families. These tours provide all the equipment you’ll need, plus an expert guide who can help everyone from beginners to more experienced paddlers feel comfortable and safe.
The guides also share interesting facts about the lake’s history and the surrounding wildlife, making the trip not just fun but also educational.
Take a Dip in Sol Duc Hot Springs
Taking a dip in the Sol Duc Hot Springs is a must-do when visiting Olympic National Park with your family. Imagine relaxing in natural hot pools surrounded by the lush, green beauty of the Sol Duc Valley—it’s like a spa day but in the heart of nature!
These mineral-rich waters are not only warm and soothing but are also said to have healing properties that can help soothe sore muscles after a day of hiking or exploring.
But there’s more to do in Sol Duc Valley than just soaking in the hot springs. The area is also home to some fantastic hiking trails, like the trail to the majestic Sol Duc Falls. This easy hike is great for families and leads to a stunning waterfall that’s perfect for some memorable vacation photos.
If you’re up for a bit more adventure, the Lover’s Lane loop offers a longer but still family-friendly route that meanders along the river and through the forest.
Hike to Marymere Falls
Hiking to Marymere Falls is another fantastic choice. This trail is an easy and enjoyable hike that’s just right for families, especially those with younger children.
The path to the waterfall is well-maintained and mostly flat, with just a short section of stairs near the falls itself. It’s about 1.8 miles round trip, making it the perfect length for little legs.
The trail winds through an old-growth forest filled with towering Douglas firs and big-leaf maples draped in moss, creating a green canopy overhead. Deer are commonly seen in the area, and birdwatchers can look out for species like the Pacific wren or the American dipper near the water.
Reaching the falls, you’ll be greeted by the stunning sight of Marymere Falls cascading down 90 feet into a clear pool below—a rewarding view and a great spot for a family photo before you head back.
Ruby Beach
One of the most popular Washington State beaches is Ruby Beach. It’s pretty easy to get to but it does involve a short hike down from the parking lot to the beach.
Ruby Beach is famous for its dramatic sea stacks and the abundant driftwood scattered along the shore. These natural features make it a fantastic playground for imaginative kids who can climb, build, and explore to their hearts’ content.
The beach is also an excellent spot for family photos, especially at sunset when the sky and sea turn brilliant shades of orange and pink. And a lot of families like to do a beach fire and roast marshmallows (when there isn’t a burn ban in effect).
Camping at Kalaloch Campground
Kalaloch Campground is especially great for families because it’s well-equipped with amenities like clean restrooms and potable water, plus each campsite has a fire pit and picnic table.
There’s plenty of space for kids to play safely, and you’re just steps away from the beach. This means you can easily head down to the sand to build castles, explore tide pools, or just relax and watch the wildlife. Bald eagles and seabirds are common sights!
Nearby, you can also visit the Tree of Life, a famous and fascinating natural wonder, or take a short drive to Ruby Beach, known for its dramatic sea stacks and driftwood.
Forks Timber Museum
Don’t miss the Forks Timber Museum! Tucked along a quiet stretch of Highway 101 on the Olympic Peninsula, this museum is a treasure trove of local history and fascinating exhibits that both kids and adults will love.
Start your visit with a stroll through the indoor exhibits where you’ll see vintage chainsaws, a cozy bunk house, and some incredibly detailed handmade models that will transport you back in time.
The kids will be thrilled to discover the Tangley Calliope and try to spot the large Smokey the Bear doll hiding somewhere in the museum. The Paul Bunyan 3D artwork is another must-see that captures the imagination and brings folklore to life.
After exploring, relax at one of the many picnic tables or take a leisurely hike on the 15-20 minute loop that feels like a mini rainforest adventure.
With plenty of parking (even for RVs), public WiFi, and a gift shop full of unique finds and logger ducks, the Forks Timber Museum provides a fun and educational break from your national park explorations.
Stargazing from Deer Park
One of the coolest nighttime activities to do with your kids at Olympic National Park is stargazing from Deer Park.
This spot is way up in the mountains and away from city lights, making the night sky there absolutely breathtaking. On a clear night, you can see countless stars, sparkling constellations, and even the Milky Way stretching across the sky!
Deer Park is known for its dark skies, which are perfect for stargazing because you can see deeper into space without the glare of artificial lighting. It’s like having a giant natural planetarium dome right above you!
If you’re planning to explore the stars from Deer Park, here are some tips on what to look for in the sky, depending on when you visit:
Spring and Summer
Look for the Big Dipper, which can help you find the North Star. Also, the summer Milky Way is a stunning sight, arching across the entire sky.
Fall and Winter
Orion’s Belt is easy to spot and absolutely stunning during the colder months. Also, look for the Pleiades, a beautiful cluster of stars that looks like a tiny dipper.
So, grab a blanket, a warm drink, and lay back to enjoy the cosmic show! Don’t forget a star map or an app to help identify different stars and constellations.
Programs at the Visitor Center
When visiting Olympic National Park with your kids, don’t miss out on the fantastic learning programs offered at the visitor centers.
A highlight for many young visitors is the Junior Ranger program. Kids get the chance to participate in activities designed to teach them about the park’s ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts.
They’ll complete fun educational tasks, like scavenger hunts or nature quizzes, guided by friendly park rangers. Once they complete the program, they earn a Junior Ranger badge, which is a great souvenir and a proud achievement for kids!
Besides the Junior Ranger activities, the visitor centers often host various educational workshops where rangers give fascinating presentations about the unique features of Olympic National Park.
Going to these ranger talks allows kids to learn directly from experts, ask questions, and get a deeper understanding of the natural world around them.
Walk the Spruce Railroad Trail
This easy, picturesque trail is perfect for families with kids, offering a gentle path that runs along the stunning shores of Lake Crescent. As you wander along this scenic route, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the lake’s crystal-clear waters, framed by lush forest and towering mountains.
A unique feature of this trail is the restored railroad tunnel. Walking through this historic tunnel is like stepping back in time, and kids love the echo of their voices bouncing off the walls. It’s not only a fun experience but also a great opportunity to share a bit of history with them.
The Spruce Railroad Trail is also ideal for a leisurely day out by the lake. You can find several spots along the trail where you can access the shore, perfect for skipping stones, picnicking, or just relaxing by the water.
Olympic National Park with Kids FAQs
What are the best kid-friendly hikes in Olympic National Park?
Marymere Falls is a 1.8-mile round-trip hike is manageable for families and leads to a stunning 90-foot waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and takes you through old-growth forests and across bridges, making it a fun and scenic walk for kids.
There’s also the Hoh River Trail. This trail is flexible in length, allowing families to turn back whenever they choose. The first river access is less than a mile from the start, making it a good short hike for smaller children.
Are there educational programs for kids at Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park offers a variety of ranger-led programs that are perfect for kids, including guided walks and talks that focus on the park’s natural and cultural history. The park also offers a Junior Ranger program which is a great way for kids to learn about the park and earn a badge.
What are the best areas in Olympic National Park for family camping?
Located near the beach, this Kalaloch Campground is ideal for families looking to explore the coastline and participate in tide pooling.
Known for its proximity to hot springs and beautiful forested areas, Sol Duc Campground is perfect for families who enjoy both hiking and relaxing in natural hot springs.
What should families pack for a day trip to Olympic National Park?
Families should pack layers of clothing as weather can change rapidly, comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, snacks, water, a basic first aid kit, and any necessary navigation tools like maps or a GPS device. Don’t forget binoculars for bird watching and a camera to capture the stunning scenery!
How can families best prepare for the weather at Olympic National Park?
The weather in Olympic National Park can be very variable, so it’s important to check the forecast ahead of your visit and prepare for rain or shine. Waterproof jackets, breathable clothing, and layered options are recommended to adapt easily to changing conditions.
Things to do at Olympic National Park for Families Wrap Up
I hope this helps you figure out what you’d like to add to your Olympic National Park itinerary! I strongly recommend mapping out the things you’d like to do and estimating the drive times. The park is MASSIVE and you might be surprised how far away things are.
Looking for more Olympic National Park content? Check out Planning Your First Family Visit to Olympic National Park? Read This First!, Where to Stay at Olympic National Park with Kids, and Is it Worth Staying at Kalaloch Lodge Near Olympic National Park?
