Guide to Major National Parks Near Seattle — Olympic National Park

Hurricane Ridge 🌟🌟🌟 If you plan to visit Mount Rainier and hike the Skyline Trail, I personally think Hurricane Ridge is unnecessary. The scenery along the way is quite average, and even the most impressive views here are easily matched by what you’ll see on Rainier’s Skyline Trail. 🥰The drive up and down takes about two hours, and the hike itself another two—basically consuming your entire morning. Honestly, it’s not really worth it. Lake Crescent 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 ✔️Highly recommended!! I didn’t have high expectations before going, thinking it was just another glacial lake, but the views absolutely exceeded expectations—it’s incredibly beautiful!! ✨The water is extremely clear, and in August when it’s warm, many people swim, paddleboard, or kayak here. Even if you don’t get in the water, just sitting by the lake for a few hours is totally worth it. I highly recommend the access point near Lake Crescent Lodge—it offers the most stunning view in my opinion. Second Beach 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Extremely, extremely recommended! I can’t recommend it enough! A beautiful rainforest trail + a sunset so breathtaking it’s worth dying for 🌅 To get to Second Beach, you’ll need to walk through a rainforest-like trail (0.7 miles, about 20+ minutes—short and easy, but incredibly scenic, almost like stepping into Jurassic Park). 🩷If you’re visiting in summer, I suggest heading there around 5-6 PM. The slanting sunlight filtering through the trees is gorgeous. After that, spend an hour or so waiting by the beach, and be ready for the sunset around 8:00 PM. #National Parks#Seattle#Second Beach#Lake Crescent#Hurricane Ridge#washingtown#travel guide