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Road Trip All 3 National Parks in Washington State
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Where to Stay in the Olympic National Park
The Olympic National Park is so large that we recommend taking at least three to seven days to explore it. You can check out our full itinerary here, where you’ll notice the most efficient way to see all the best sights in the park is to change lodging every couple of days. This blog covers where to stay for every budget near each town we’ve recommended visiting.
Where to Stay When Visiting the Redwood National Park
The Redwood National Park is split into four sections, roughly covering 150 miles across California. We have lodging recommendations for each park and every budget covered, including camping suggestions.
Redwood National Park 1 to 4 Day Itinerary
The Redwood National Park is home to the tallest trees in the world! They date back to prehistoric times, and visiting is such an awe-inspiring experience. Along with seeing trees up to 2,400 years old, you’ll also enjoy 37 miles of wild coastline, rivers, prairies, and wildlife on 139,000 acres.
Best Hikes in the Redwoods
Did you know that redwood trees can get to be taller than 30-floor skyscrapers!? That’s more than 320 feet high, with trunks that can grow more than 27 feet wide. Walking through these 2,000-year-old giants is awe-inspiring. Hike early to beat the crowds and get those beautiful sun rays shining through the trees.
Crater Lake National Park — Everything You Need to Know
Crater Lake is a geological marvel. Not only is it the deepest lake in the United States, but it’s also the cleanest and clearest large body of water in the world. The vibrant color and clarity of the water are like nothing you’ll see anywhere else. Visit to learn about the lake’s mysterious natural phenomena and Native American legends about Mount Mazama forming Crater Lake.
While you’re in the area, you’ll also have the chance to see countless waterfalls, beautiful viewpoints, and rivers. Most people rush through the park in one day, but we recommend staying up to four days if you have the time.
Mount Rainier Timed Entry Reservations Explained
Mount Rainier National Park is piloting timed entry requirements in 2024. Due to a heavy increase in visitation and damage to park ecosystems, the park is hoping timed reservations will improve the visitor experience by reducing traffic, waiting times, and negative impacts on trails.
Best Hikes at Mount Rainier (and Why We Like Them)
With over 250 miles of hiking trails featuring waterfalls, forests, rivers, and of course, incredible mountain views, visiting Mount Rainier National Park should be on every hiker’s bucket list.
Olympic National Park: Best Hikes, Itinerary, and Sights
Covering 922,641 acres, the Olympic National Park is so large and diverse! The park has seven distinct ecosystems, including glaciated mountains, rainforest, and the coast. There is something for everyone to enjoy here, and there is so much to see. We recommend staying between two and seven days near the park.
The Ultimate Cascade Loop Itinerary
The Cascade Loop is a 440-mile road trip through some of Washington’s most gorgeous scenery. As it circles through the Cascade Mountains, it’s the best way to explore the North Cascades National Park. This trip can be completed in one to five days, with epic hikes, waterfalls, and cute towns along the way.
Mount Rainier National Park Itinerary (From Locals)
At 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier stands far above the surrounding Cascade Mountains. It’s so distinct that locals refer to it as “the mountain” and have an unofficial motto: “Live like the mountain is out.” We recommend spending between one and five days near the park and suggest erring on the side of more time if you enjoy hiking and scenic drives.
