Hotline to outings at Olympic National Park - Last-Minute Vacation '91

Sunset, June, 1991

Hotline to outings at Olympic National Park West from downtown Seattle, the jagged, craggy peaks of the nearly million-acre Olympic National Park stretch across the distant horizon to the Pacific Ocean, so imposing they appear inaccessible. But up close, just 2 hours away by ferry and car, the park readily opens its rugged interior to visitors. It offers 600 miles of trails as well as numerous other outdoor activities and day-hikes just off U.S. 101, which encircles the park.

This year, park staff are operating a hotline to help visitors plan their trips, from family outings at a campground to horsepacking trips into the interior. Staff won't make reversations for you, but they can provide up-to-date information about the 19 first-come, first-served campgrounds; day-hikes; interpretive programs; canoe and paddleboat rentals; backpacking; horsepacking; fishing and rafting guide services; and trail, road, and weather conditions. Call the visitor center, open daily 9 to 4, at (206) 452-0330.

The four park lodges often are booked a year ahead, so call the hotline now to find where there are vacancies. Next try neighboring Sequim (683-6197), Port Angeles (452-2363), Shelton (429-2021), or Grays Harbor (532-1924).