PORT ANGELES

Quick Facts

  • Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center has exhibits, orientation movie and restrooms.
  • A massive landslide isolated Lake Crescent from Lake Sutherland approximately 7,000 years ago. There are two uniquely adapted populations, the Crescenti and Beardslee trout, that resulted from genetic isolation following this event.
  • Ediz Hook was created by wind and tidal action that carried sediment from the delta of the Elwha River to Port Angeles, creating a sheltered natural harbor.

ABOUT THE AREA


Tucked in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, Port Angeles is the epicenter for the Olympic Peninsula with visitors arriving from near and far to experience a magical vacation. As the gateway to the Olympic National Park, this seaside-meets-mountain town has nuggets of history, hints of fame, bewitching beauty, and adventure waiting to be discovered.

Port Angeles sits at the entrance to one of the nation’s most diverse National Parks and the only World Heritage Site in the Northwest. Olympic National Park has nearly 1 million acres for year-round exploring, plus dozens of more outdoor adventures outside of the park. Hiking, biking and beachcombing are just the beginning.

HURRICANE RIDGE

The most easily accessed mountain area within Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge has fantastic views in clear weather. There are a number of hiking trails, from ridgetop traverses to steep trails that descend to subalpine lakes and valleys. Obstruction Point Road branches off right before the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center, and provides access to a variety of trails as well. Hurricane Ridge is located 17 miles south of Port Angeles on Hurricane Ridge Road, off Mount Angeles Road.

LAKE CRESCENT

Lake Crescent is a cold, clear glacially-carved lake nestled in the northern foothills of the Olympic Mountains, about 18 miles west of Port Angeles. The pristine waters of this deep, lake make it an ideal destination for those in search of natural beauty. The lake's waters have very little nitrogen which limits the growth of phytoplankton the normally float in lake waters. Without phytoplankton, the water stays clear, and in some places you might see as far down as 60 feet below the surface. The lake's protected waters are home to fish like the Beardslee and Crescenti trout, two types of fish found nowhere else in the world.

Lake Crescent has several hiking trails, some of which climb the surrounding mountains, and others that explore the lowland forests and creeks. The hike to Marymere Falls by way of the Barnes Creek trail, is a favorite, as is the Spruce Railroad trail that runs along the north shore. Many people enjoy going out onto the water during the summer and fall. Boat launches are located at both east and west ends of the lake. Rowboats are available for rental from Lake Crescent Lodge. Whether it's kayaking, sailing, or simply relaxing on the beaches and shores, Lake Crescent is a great place to visit.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

The area has mountain biking trails ranging from beginner to very difficult. The Olympic Discovery Trail has an “Adventure Trail” route offshoot with 25-miles of single and double track trails. More miles of trails are in the works. The Dry Hill Trail offers about 6 miles of challenging downhill if you’re willing to climb for it. Both sections of trail are dog-friendly since they’re not located within the Olympic National Park boundary.