Olympic National Park

Spring Experiences in Washington’s National Parks

Roads are opening, wildflowers are blooming, trails are emerging under the snow, and park visitation increases. These spring recommendations from our community were made for you: everyday park users, first timers, seasoned visitors, and everyone in between.

Learning from the Waters: Natural History of Olympic National Park

This Women's History Month, we're featuring articles by incredible women in our park community. This week, learn about the natural history of Olympic National Park from the perspective of the water with naturalist and sea kayak guide Chelsea Behymer.

What to Do in Washington’s National Parks This Winter

We know that it can be intimidating figuring out what there is to do and how exactly to do it when snow is falling and major roads are closing. Check out the WNPF team's recommendations on how to experience our parks in the winter months.

More Fishers Come Home to the Olympics

Significant progress has been made in bringing fishers home - a conservation effort that Washington’s National Park Fund donors have provided long-term support for. Learn about the most recent release of five fishers in the wild southeast corner of Olympic National Park.

An Ode to Hiking Solo

Much has been written about the restorative powers of being in nature. When I think about the moments that I have felt the most alive in the outdoors, I think about being in remote spaces far away from crowds. Many experiences are with a friend or a small group, but...

Fall Color Hikes in Washington’s National Parks

With the long-awaited departure of heat and bugs, the best hiking season is now upon us! Though fall hiking is not only the most comfortable in Washington, but also the most beautiful. This year, instead of jostling with the masses in search of #LarchMadness, consider immersing yourself in the fiery...

Meet Olympic National Park’s Marmots and the Citizen Scientists Who Study Them

On December 2, 2020, Olympic National Park Wildlife Biologist Patti Happe joined Washington’s National Park Fund for a Virtual Field Trip where we were introduced to one of the park’s most unique and beloved animals – the Olympic Marmot. These furry creatures are genetically distinct from other marmots and endemic...

Heading Back to School: Middle School Snow Science in Olympic National Park

It's back-to-school season! Did you know that science field trips for seventh graders is one of the projects WNPF has provided support for over the years? This article, originally published in National Parks Traveler's March 2020 issue, sheds light on how this impactful program makes a difference in young peoples'...

Untrained Hikers among the Wildflowers at Olympic National Park

Yuly is from a large city in Central Russia -- another land, another culture. However, his family could walk for 15 minutes and be in a forest resort with a small inn, nearby pond and dam. During Soviet times, workers could get a voucher to go there for a week....