Olympic National Park gets more than 120 inches of rain every year. The weather shifts wildly across its different ecosystems, so timing your trip really matters. The park’s geography splits it into three distinct climate zones: coastal beaches, temperate rainforests, and alpine mountains. Each zone has its own weather patterns that can flip from one extreme to another, sometimes within just a short drive.
If you want the best weather, aim for mid-May through late September. Temperatures usually range from 50-70°F and rainfall drops to about 5 days a month. During this window, most roads stay open, trails become accessible, and you can check out all three ecosystems without worrying much about weather closures. Of course, this is also when crowds surge and hotel prices jump.
Weather in Olympic can change a ton depending on where you are and how high up you go. You might see snow, rain, and sunshine all in one day. Knowing these climate zones and how weather shapes access to places like Hurricane Ridge or the Hoh Rainforest helps you plan better—especially if you’re picky about weather or have your heart set on certain activities.
Key Factors That Influence the Best Time to Visit
Olympic’s mix of climate zones means the weather can be completely different from one part of the peninsula to another. Some areas get just 12 inches of rain a year, while others in the rainforests get over 140 inches. If you want to pick the best time for your plans and comfort level, it helps to understand how weather, rainfall, and crowds shift through the year.
Weather Patterns and Climate Zones
Inside Olympic National Park, you’ll find several climate zones. The coast has a marine climate with mild temps all year, while the mountains get true alpine conditions and heavy snow.
Hurricane Ridge sits up at 5,200 feet and gets buried in snow from December through March. Winter temps can drop to 20°F, while summer brings highs up to 75°F. Weather changes fast up here, so you never really know what you’ll get.
The rainforest valleys like Hoh and Quinault stay pretty moderate, usually between 40-75°F. These areas almost never get snow, but they’re always moist thanks to storms rolling in from the Pacific.
Coastal regions along the Pacific see the most stable temps, from 40-75°F year-round. The ocean keeps things from getting too hot or cold, but it also brings a lot of fog and wind.
You’ll want to check the weather for your exact spot in the park. Hurricane Ridge and Ruby Beach can have totally different conditions on the same day.
Rainfall and Precipitation Trends
The Olympic Peninsula ranks among the rainiest spots in the lower 48. The Olympic Mountains create a rain shadow, so some areas get soaked while others stay surprisingly dry.
Wettest months hit from November through March. December alone can bring rain on 20 days. The Quinault Rainforest sometimes gets more than 12 feet of rain during these months.
Driest period falls between July and September, with July averaging just 7 rainy days. Still, don’t leave the rain jacket at home—Pacific storms can blow in with little warning.
| Season | Average Rainy Days | Typical Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | 18-21 days | Heavy rainfall, mountain snow |
| Spring | 14-19 days | Moderate rain, melting snow |
| Summer | 7-11 days | Lightest rainfall period |
| Fall | 11-18 days | Increasing precipitation |
The rain shadow effect means places like Sequim end up with just 15-20 inches of rain a year, way less than the western rainforests.
Crowd Levels and Accessibility
Summer brings the biggest crowds, since the weather is at its best and all park roads open up. If you want to avoid the masses, you’ll need to plan smart.
Summer crowds peak from mid-July through August. Over 2.4 million people visit each year, and most come during these months. Spots like Hurricane Ridge and Hoh Rainforest get especially packed, and parking can be a headache.
Shoulder seasons—May-June and September-October—strike a better balance. The weather usually holds, snow melts off the trails, and the crowds thin out.
Winter accessibility drops way off. Snow closes mountain roads, and Hurricane Ridge Road sometimes shuts down completely. Many backcountry areas become off-limits unless you’ve got the right gear.
Ferry reservations from Seattle sell out fast in summer, so book ahead. Some visitor centers and park facilities cut their hours outside the busy months.
Weekday visits usually feel less crowded than weekends, especially at the most popular trailheads and viewpoints.
Olympic National Park’s Unique Climate Zones
Olympic National Park covers nearly a million acres and stretches across multiple climate zones. The Pacific shapes the coastal weather, mountains bring alpine conditions, and rainforests flourish in the valleys.
Coastal Areas and Pacific Influence
The Pacific Ocean keeps the park’s western coastline mild and wet. Ocean temps barely budge through the year, so the coast stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer than inland spots.
Winter temperatures along the coast usually run 40-50°F. Summer highs hit 60-75°F. The ocean smooths out big temperature swings that you’d expect this far north.
Coastal areas get hammered by rain from October through April. Storms crash in from the Pacific, dumping moisture as soon as they hit the peninsula. Winter storms can get wild, with big winds and heavy rain.
Rain patterns really depend on location. The northeast coast near Port Angeles stays much drier than the west side beaches. The mountains block a lot of the rain before it gets that far.
Summer dries things out on the coast. July and August see just 7-8 rainy days a month, compared to 18-21 in winter.
Rainforest Ecosystems
Olympic’s temperate rainforests thrive in valleys that trap all that Pacific moisture. The Hoh Rain Forest and others get 120-170 inches of annual rainfall.
Humidity stays high all year. Temperatures stay pretty steady because the forest canopy and constant dampness keep things from getting too hot or cold. Winter lows hang around 40°F, and summer highs top out at 70-75°F.
Rainfall peaks from November through March in the rainforests. Storms sometimes dump inches of rain in a single day. The thick tree cover spreads out the moisture, so the forest floor stays damp but not flooded.
Spring and early summer feel the most comfortable. May and June bring fewer rainy days and pleasant conditions. The forest stays green and lush no matter when you visit.
Fog rolls through the rainforest valleys most mornings and evenings. Even in summer, this keeps things moist and magical.
Mountain and Alpine Regions
Hurricane Ridge and other high spots get real alpine weather. Snow piles up by the foot in winter above 3,000 feet.
Mountain weather can flip fast because of the elevation and exposure. Every 1,000 feet up, you lose about 3°F. Winter at Hurricane Ridge means 20-40°F and lots of snow, while summers warm up to 45-75°F.
Snow season usually runs December through March at higher elevations. Sometimes snow sticks around into May up top. Deep snow can close mountain roads for months.
Summer is prime time for the alpine areas. July and August bring the warmest, driest weather. That’s when you can actually hike high-elevation trails and catch big views.
Weather systems move fast in the mountains. Mornings might start clear, but storms can roll in by afternoon. Bring layers and be ready for sudden changes.
Seasonal Breakdown: Weather by Season
Olympic National Park cycles through some pretty distinct weather each season. Spring brings unpredictable rainfall, while summer offers the warmest, most stable days. Each season shapes what trails you can reach and what kind of experience you’ll have.
Spring: March to May
Spring in Olympic National Park is a bit of a wild card. Rain falls often and temperatures bounce around. March usually brings 19 rainy days, but by May, that drops to about 14.
Temperature ranges shift by elevation:
- Hurricane Ridge: 20-60°F
- Quinault Rainforest: 40-60°F
- Coastal areas: 40-60°F
Early spring keeps higher elevations snowed in. Most mountain trails stay closed until late April or May, but lower trails start opening up as things warm.
Rain peaks in March and April, then eases up in May. Check forecasts daily—conditions change fast. Waterfalls look their best in spring, thanks to snowmelt and extra rain.
Wildflowers start popping up by late April. Trillium and skunk cabbage cover the forest floor as the snow melts away.
Summer: June to August
Summer brings the park’s most reliable weather and the least rain. July averages only 7 rainy days, making it the driest month.
Typical summer temperatures:
- Hurricane Ridge: 40-75°F
- Rainforest areas: 50-75°F
- Coastal regions: 55-75°F
Daylight stretches late, sometimes past 9 PM in June. That’s great for hikers and campers. Most high-elevation trails finally open by July.
Rainforest areas can heat up a bit in July and August. If you want to cool off, head to the coast or climb higher. Lake Crescent and Lake Ozette become popular for swimming.
Summer weather is usually steady, but you should still bring rain gear. Mountain weather can still surprise you. Crowds peak from mid-July through August.
Fall: September to November
Fall starts off mild in September but gets wetter and cooler by November. September sticks to about 11 rainy days, but by November that jumps to 21.
Temps drop as fall goes on:
- September highs can still hit 70°F
- October cools down to around 55°F
- November feels wintry, with 40-50°F
Early fall is perfect for hiking before the storms hit. September and early October balance decent weather with fewer crowds. Rain picks up fast by late October.
Storm watching becomes a thing on the Pacific coast in fall. Big waves and dramatic skies draw visitors who don’t mind getting a little wet.
October brings out the best fall colors. Vine maples and other deciduous trees light up the rainforest valleys.
Winter: December to February
Winter hits hard with heavy snow up high and lots of rain down low. December through February each bring 18-20 rainy days.
Cold dominates:
- Hurricane Ridge: 20-40°F and deep snow
- Lower elevations: 40-50°F and rain
- Coastal areas: 40-50°F with storms
Snow piles up at the higher spots. Hurricane Ridge turns into a playground for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Winter sports fans love it from December through March.
Roads close often because of snow, ice, or storm damage. Always check conditions before you head out. You’ll want emergency supplies in winter.
Pacific storms hit the coast with huge waves and fierce winds. If you’re ready for rough weather, winter offers some wild sights.
Highlights by Month and Activities
Olympic’s variety means you’ll find something different to do every season. Summer is best for high-elevation hikes, while spring and fall bring great wildlife viewing and fewer people.
Best Months for Mild Weather
June through September offer the most consistent mild weather. Temperatures usually land in the mid-50s to upper 60s at lower elevations.
July and August are the sweet spot. You’ll get the least rain and warmest days, with plenty of clear skies and dry trails.
Late May and early October give you a nice shoulder season. The weather stays decent, though rain becomes more likely. You’ll also dodge the biggest crowds.
From December through February, things get tough. Coastal areas drown in rain, mountains get buried in snow, and daytime highs hover in the 40s at sea level.
Top Activities by Season
Spring (March-May) is perfect for chasing waterfalls. Snowmelt swells rivers, so Sol Duc Falls and Marymere Falls really put on a show.
Tide pools are at their best in spring during the extreme low tides. You’ll spot sea stars, anemones, and tiny crabs along the rocky shore.
Summer (June-August) opens the high trails. Hurricane Ridge and the alpine meadows finally become accessible. Camping is at its best, too.
Fall (September-November) is prime for wildlife. Elk bugling hits in September and October, and salmon runs bring out the birds.
Winter (December-February) keeps most activities at lower elevations. Coastal hikes and hot springs are still popular. Hurricane Ridge turns into a snow sports hub.
Wildlife and Nature Events
You can spot gray whales passing through the coastal waters during their migration. The best time to catch them is from March through May, when they head north to Alaska.
A second migration happens from October through December.
Elk behavior shifts a lot with the seasons. Bulls get especially active during the rutting season in September and October.
They let out those wild bugling calls that echo across the valleys.
Salmon fill the rivers throughout the park from late summer into fall. Coho and Chinook salmon return to spawn between August and November.
This draws bears, eagles, and plenty of other wildlife to the riverbanks.
Wildflowers put on a show in the alpine meadows. Peak blooms usually hit from mid-July through August at higher elevations.
Lower elevation flowers show up earlier in the spring.
Weather and Accessibility in Key Park Destinations
Weather swings wildly across Olympic National Park, thanks to its mix of snowy peaks and lush rainforests. Each spot comes with its own accessibility quirks, depending on the season and how high up you go.
Hurricane Ridge and Hurricane Ridge Road
Hurricane Ridge sits at 5,200 feet, so weather plays a huge role in whether you can get there. Winter dumps 20-30 feet of snow from December through March, so you’ll need chains or an all-wheel drive vehicle.
Hurricane Ridge Road closes often during winter storms. The road usually opens by late May, but in heavy snow years, snow can stick around until June.
Summer temperatures stay between 45-75°F, giving you ideal conditions for hiking and spotting wildlife.
You’ll find:
- Clear access: June through October
- Partial access: November and April (weather can be iffy)
- Limited access: December through March
The road from Port Angeles climbs 5,000 feet in just 17 miles. Weather can flip quickly at this elevation.
Even if it’s sunny down in Port Angeles, you might hit clouds or fog at the ridge.
Lake Crescent and Lake Crescent Lodge
Lake Crescent enjoys some of the steadiest weather in the park, thanks to its lower elevation and sheltered spot. The lake almost never freezes, so you can visit any time of year.
Lake Crescent Lodge welcomes guests from late April through October. Sometimes winter storms close Highway 101 for a day or so, but it doesn’t happen often.
Water temperatures peak at 65°F in late summer. Most people swim between July and September.
This area gets less rain than the coast:
- Summer: 2-3 inches a month
- Winter: 8-10 inches a month
Hiking trails around the lake stay open all year. Marymere Falls trail remains accessible in winter, though you’ll probably deal with some mud.
Hoh Rainforest Conditions
The Hoh Rainforest soaks up 12-14 feet of rain each year, making it one of the wettest spots in the lower 48. Rain falls pretty steadily from October through May.
Summer months (July-August) bring the driest weather, with only 7-8 rainy days each month. Temperatures stick between 50-75°F year-round, thanks to the ocean’s influence.
The 18-mile road to the Hoh Visitor Center stays open all year. Snow hardly ever falls here, except during rare cold snaps.
You’ll find the best hiking from June through September when:
- Trails dry out
- River crossings get safer
- Daylight stretches until 9 PM
Mosquitoes hit their peak in late spring and early summer as things warm up. The dense canopy keeps things humid, even if it’s not raining.
Coastal Experiences at Kalaloch
Kalaloch gives you beach access year-round, but the weather can change the whole vibe. Winter storms whip up dangerous surf, but if you like wave watching, it’s spectacular.
Temperatures stay mild—40-50°F in winter, 60-75°F in summer. The ocean keeps things from swinging too wildly.
Kalaloch Lodge stays open all year, though they scale back some services in winter. The beaches never close, but high tides and storms can make certain spots risky.
Storm season runs from November through February:
- Waves can hit 15-20 feet
- Winds sometimes top 60 mph during big storms
- After storms, beachcombing turns up new treasures
Summer brings calmer seas and more sun, though you might get morning fog or afternoon clouds. Tide pooling is best during summer’s low tides and when the weather clears up.
Travel Tips for Planning Around Weather
If you want to make the most of Olympic National Park’s unpredictable weather, you’ll need the right gear, up-to-date info, and a bit of flexibility. Weather can shift fast, especially when you’re moving from rainforest to mountain peaks.
What to Pack for Olympic National Park
Layered clothing is a must for any Olympic trip. Temperatures can swing a lot, even in the same day, just by changing elevation or moving between ecosystems.
Always pack a waterproof rain jacket and pants, no matter the season. The park gets a ton of rain, especially along the coast—over 140 inches a year.
Don’t forget:
- Waterproof hiking boots with good grip
- Moisture-wicking base layers (skip the cotton)
- Warm mid-layers like fleece or down
- Waterproof covers for your day pack
- Extra socks and gloves
In summer, you’ll want sun protection—hats and sunscreen. Winter visitors need insulated layers and maybe microspikes or snowshoes for places like Hurricane Ridge.
A good headlamp comes in handy on short winter days or if you’re up early. For backcountry trips, pack emergency supplies like a first aid kit, whistle, and emergency blanket.
Staying Updated on Park and Weather Conditions
Check the weather forecast a few times before and during your trip so you can adjust your plans. The official Olympic National Park website lists current road closures and trail conditions.
The National Weather Service gives detailed forecasts for different park regions. Mountain weather is often nothing like the coast, so plan for each area.
Park rangers update trail info daily during peak season. Some high-elevation spots stay snowed in until late spring.
You can get info from:
- NPS Olympic National Park website
- National Weather Service Seattle office
- Washington State Department of Transportation for road updates
- Park visitor centers for real-time news
Social media and hiking apps are great for recent trail reports from other visitors. Weather can flip in a matter of hours, so keep your plans flexible.
Choosing Lodging Based on Weather
Location selection really shapes your experience with the weather and what you can do nearby. If you pick a coastal spot like Kalaloch Lodge, you’ll get storm watching, but you’re also signing up for more rain and wind.
Lake Crescent Lodge sits inland, tucked into the forest, and usually deals with steadier weather. Mountain lodges near Hurricane Ridge? They tend to close for the season once snow takes over.
If you stay at an interior place, you’ll usually find indoor activities ready for those rough weather days. A lot of these lodges have fireplaces, plus covered spots to hang up soggy gear.
You’ll want some booking flexibility, especially during those shoulder seasons when the weather can flip fast. Some places cut back services or even shut down for the winter.
Think about how close your lodging is to different activity areas. That way, you can switch between the coast, forest, or mountains depending on the day’s weather.
Reservation timing can make or break your plans. Summer fills up way in advance, but you’ll get more wiggle room in the shoulder seasons if you’re chasing good weather.