Join Toby and me on a dog-friendly road trip from Portland to Olympic National Park. Explore lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and majestic waterfalls, with highlights like the Quinault Rain Forest, Ruby Beach, and Hurricane Ridge. Perfect for pet-friendly adventurers!
Toby and I embarked on an exciting road trip to the Olympic National Park, eager to explore the stunning landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula. This adventure had been on my bucket list for a while, and sharing it with Toby made it even more special. Here’s an overview of our unforgettable journey:
Day 1: Quinault
- World’s Largest Sitka Spruce: We started our adventure visiting this ancient giant, a must-see landmark.
- Quinault Rain Forest Trail: A serene hike through lush greenery, perfect for Toby to explore.
- Quinault Loop: A longer, immersive experience of the rainforest’s beauty and tranquility.
Click here to read the full blog post about our day one.
Day 2: Beaches and Lake
- Tree of Life: Marvel at this unique tree symbolizing resilience.
- Ruby Beach: Stunning rock formations and tide pools; Toby loved exploring here.
- Rialto Beach: Rugged coastline with dramatic sea stacks.
- Lake Crescent / Devil’s Punchbowl: End the day with a hike to a beautiful swimming hole.
Click here to read the full blog post about our day two.
Day 3: Waterfalls and Trails
- Madison Falls: A short hike to a picturesque waterfall in the Elwha Valley.
- Peabody Creek Trail: A peaceful walk through the forest.
- Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center: Panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains.
Click here to read the full blog post about our day three.
Day 4: Scenic Views and Waterfalls
- Falls View Canyon: A short hike to stunning canyon and waterfall views.
- Mt. Walker Viewpoint: Sweeping views of the landscape from the summit.
- Rocky Brook Falls: A beautiful and peaceful waterfall to end our trip.
Click here to read the full blog post about our day four.
Bonus: Stretch Break at Mt. St. Helens Interpretive Center
On the way to the Olympic Peninsula, we took a break at the Mt. St. Helens Interpretive Center. This stop was not only a great opportunity to stretch our legs but also provided a fascinating glimpse into the history and geology of the region.
The interpretive center features comprehensive exhibits about the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, one of the most significant volcanic events in U.S. history. We learned about the dramatic explosion that reshaped the landscape, the ongoing ecological recovery, and the science behind volcanic activity. The center’s displays include vivid photographs, interactive models, and informative videos.
The surrounding area offers several short trails perfect for a quick stroll. We enjoyed a leisurely walk along one of these paths, which provided beautiful views of the surrounding forest and the still-active volcano. The fresh air and the chance to explore a new environment were invigorating for Toby, adding an extra layer of excitement to our journey.
This overview captures the essence of our incredible journey through Olympic National Park. Each day was filled with new discoveries and unforgettable moments, making it a truly memorable adventure for both Toby and me. Stay tuned for detailed posts on each day’s activities and tips for making the most of your dog-friendly trip to Olympic National Park!