The best city hikes and walks in Olympic National Park
4.7
(674)
11,119
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If you've ever tried planning hiking in Olympic National Park, you know how quickly the sheer number of options can become overwhelming. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and which are just filler. We get it – you want to experience the best without endless guesswork. That's where komoot comes in: our community has mapped, walked, and reviewed these routes, giving you a curated shortlist of the trails truly worth your legs.
This guide focuses on the accessible side of Olympic National Park, offering urban hikes and walks that let you soak in the coastal beauty and riverine environments without venturing deep into the wilderness. Expect mostly paved and gravel multi-use trails, often following waterfronts or river valleys, with minimal elevation gain. It's a fantastic way to experience the park's unique character, from its rugged Pacific shoreline to areas bordering charming small towns, all on easy, family-friendly paths.
If you only do one, we'd start with the Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront, a popular 4.4 miles (7.1 km) route that offers fantastic views along the waterfront. For a slightly different feel, the Olympic Discovery Trail (3.7 miles / 5.9 km) provides another top-rated, flat surface perfect for a relaxed stroll. With more than 9,000 hikers having explored these paths and over 500 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, you can trust you're in for a treat.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
3
hikers
715m
00:11
10m
10m
The Living Forest Trail in Olympic National Park offers a delightful, easy stroll through a vibrant, lush forest. You'll navigate a wide, compacted gravel path, winding past tall trees and diverse plant life. Keep an eye out for the fascinating exposed root wad of a fallen tree, a natural highlight that showcases the forest's ongoing cycle. This short loop is perfect for a quick nature fix, immersing you in the park's unique ecosystem.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is located right near the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles. It's an incredibly accessible route, suitable for all skill levels, and even offers wheelchairs for borrow at the visitor center. Covering just 0.4 miles (0.7 km) with a minimal 32 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, you can complete this easy hike in about 11 minutes.
This trail serves as an excellent introduction to the diverse plant life and ecological processes within Olympic National Park. Beyond the greenery, you might spot banana slugs, various fungi, and local birds. Its proximity to the visitor center and its family-friendly nature make it a popular choice for beginner hiking and a great way to experience the forest without committing to a longer trek.
1
hikers
7.14km
01:48
10m
20m
The Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront offers a wonderfully accessible and scenic hike, perfect for a relaxed day out. This easy route follows the city's waterfront, providing continuous, stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Port Angeles Harbor. You will walk on a predominantly paved and flat path, making it suitable for all ages and abilities, and on clear days, you can even see the Olympic Mountains and Canada across the water. Keep an eye out for marine wildlife like seals and otters, especially around spots like Pebble Beach Park.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is conveniently located with ample parking and easy access to downtown Port Angeles. You can find amenities like restrooms, benches, and dog waste bag dispensers along the way, making it a comfortable experience for everyone. Since it is an easy 4.4-mile (7.1 km) hike with only 41 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hours and 48 minutes, you can easily fit it into your day and explore the local shops and cafes afterward.
This section is a highlight of the much larger 130-mile Olympic Discovery Trail, known for blending urban charm with natural beauty. It is particularly noted for its excellent marine life observation opportunities, setting it apart as one of the best waterfront trails in the region. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly outing or a gentle stroll with your dog, this trail provides a high-reward experience with minimal effort.
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1
hikers
3.02km
00:48
30m
20m
The Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront offers a serene and accessible journey along the coast, perfect for an easy outing. This 1.9-mile (3.0 km) hike, with a minimal 104 feet (32 metres) of elevation gain, takes just under an hour, making it an ideal choice for a quick escape. You'll walk on a mostly paved, flat path, enjoying expansive vistas of the Salish Sea and the Port Angeles Harbor, with the Olympic Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop on clear days.
Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward, as it's well-suited for families and is dog-friendly. Parking and restrooms are readily available, and the trail's proximity to downtown Port Angeles means you can easily grab a coffee or a meal. This section is particularly welcoming for those seeking wheelchair accessible sections of the Olympic Discovery Trail, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.
What makes this trail truly stand out is its unique blend of urban accessibility and natural splendor. It's a prime spot for marine life viewing, where you might catch glimpses of seals or otters. As part of the much larger Olympic Discovery Trail system, this waterfront segment offers a taste of the extensive network, providing a high-payoff, low-effort experience that showcases the region's beauty.
5
hikers
5.89km
01:32
40m
40m
This easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) section of the Olympic Discovery Trail near Port Angeles is a fantastic choice for a relaxed hike, offering continuous, stunning vistas across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Canada. With only 147 feet (45 metres) of elevation gain, it's a gentle path that takes about 1 hour and 32 minutes to complete, making it accessible for nearly everyone. You'll walk along a mix of paved and compacted gravel surfaces, enjoying the fresh air and expansive views without any significant physical challenge.
Planning your visit is simple, as there are numerous access points and parking options along the Port Angeles waterfront. This makes it easy to hop on or off the trail, whether you're looking for a quick morning walk or a leisurely afternoon outing. Many trailheads also provide amenities like restrooms, ensuring a comfortable experience.
The Olympic Discovery Trail is a remarkable multi-use path designed to connect Puget Sound with the Pacific Ocean, showcasing the diverse ecosystems of the Olympic Peninsula. This particular segment highlights the trail's accessibility and scenic beauty, providing a taste of the larger project. It's a great way to experience the region's natural charm and is part of the ambitious Great American Rail Trail.
3
hikers
3.55km
00:56
30m
30m
The Port Angeles City Pier – Port Angeles loop offers a delightful and easy waterfront hiking experience, perfect for a casual outing. This 2.2-mile (3.5 km) route, with a minimal 100 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 55 minutes to complete. You'll enjoy continuous views of the Salish Sea, Port Angeles Harbor, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, often spotting seals and otters, all on a paved, flat surface.
Accessing the trail is simple, as it starts right from the Port Angeles City Pier, which offers convenient parking. Its prime location means you can easily combine your walk with a visit to downtown Port Angeles's cafes and restaurants. This family-friendly and dog-friendly trail is suitable for all skill levels, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed stroll.
This loop is a highlight of the Port Angeles Waterfront Trail, a section of the broader Olympic Discovery Trail, known for its accessibility and scenic beauty. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural charm of the area without a strenuous effort, providing a quick and rewarding escape into nature right from the city.
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Tips from the Community
Harborview Park offers stunning views of the harbor and Olympic Mountains. You can watch the coastline and various bird species while enjoying a picnic in the park. The park also has a parking lot and restrooms. To get there, simply follow the bike lane on Ediz Hook Road.
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This small beach sits right off the Olympic Discovery Trail. Enjoy watching the huge boats pass by. Perfect for a quick break or as a turnaround point on your ride.
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Port Angeles, situated along a port of the same name, is a picturesque town that serves as the gateway to Olympic National Park. For those riding the ODT it serves as a great place to rest and refuel as there are a number of great restaurants, accommodations, and grocery stores.
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This section of the Olympic Discovery Trail leads along the waterfront of Port Angeles. Enjoy nice views of the harbor and finish your walk with a delicious snack in the city. As the Olympic Discovery Trail has a total length of about 135 miles, feel free to extend your hike and walk a little further.
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Port Angeles, founded in 1862, sits by a beautiful harbor named Puerto de Nuestra Señora de los Angeles whose name comes from the Spanish explorer Francisco Eliza. It's a hub for fishing, lumber, and food processing, and you'll find dairy farms nearby. It's the gateway to Olympic National Park and Canada is just 18 miles away!
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In Port Angeles, some companies offer whale watching tours. Great care is taken not to get too close to the animals. These tours can also be booked online. A walk along the pier and the coast is worthwhile.
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At the pier of the city harbor, there is a small observation tower with a beautiful view over the city and the harbor, out into the strait of the Strait of San Juan de Fuca and the mountains in the hinterland around the Hurricane Ridge - if the view allows it and it does not hazy. Otherwise simply enjoy the maritime atmosphere and watch the ferry from Canada arrive.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Olympic National Park?
There are 8 urban hiking trails available in Olympic National Park, all rated as easy. These routes offer accessible ways to experience the park's diverse environments, often near developed areas or towns.
Are the urban hiking trails in Olympic National Park suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, all the urban hiking trails in this guide are rated as easy, making them ideal for beginners and families. They typically feature gentle terrain and shorter distances, allowing for a relaxed outdoor experience. For example, the Living Forest Trail is less than a kilometer long, perfect for a quick, immersive walk.
Can I bring my dog on urban hikes in Olympic National Park?
While Olympic National Park has specific regulations regarding pets on trails, many urban and developed areas, including some sections of the Olympic Discovery Trail, are dog-friendly. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, as rules can vary. Generally, dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
What kind of wildlife might I see on urban trails in Olympic National Park?
Even on urban trails, you might encounter various wildlife. The park is home to deer, elk, and a wide array of bird species. Near coastal or waterfront trails, you could spot marine birds. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals.
Are there any urban loop trails in Olympic National Park?
Yes, there are urban loop trails available. For instance, the Hiking loop from Port Angeles offers a circular route, allowing you to experience different views without retracing your steps. The Living Forest Trail is also a short loop, providing a quick immersion into the forest.
What are some interesting places to explore near the urban hiking routes?
Many urban hiking routes are close to notable attractions. For example, trails near Port Angeles offer easy access to the waterfront. You can also find highlights like Marymere Falls, Lake Crescent Beach and Lodge, and the famous Hoh Rain Forest within the broader park area, providing diverse experiences from waterfalls to ancient forests.
Where can I find urban hikes near Port Angeles?
Port Angeles serves as a great base for urban hikes. The Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront offers multiple accessible sections directly from the city, providing scenic views along the water. Additionally, the Hiking loop from Port Angeles is another excellent option starting right from the town.
What is the best time of year to go urban hiking in Olympic National Park?
Urban hiking in Olympic National Park is enjoyable year-round, though conditions vary. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer offers warm, dry weather ideal for exploring. Fall showcases vibrant foliage, and even winter can be beautiful, especially in lower elevations, though some trails might be wet. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Do I need any permits for urban hiking trails in Olympic National Park?
For most day hikes on urban trails within Olympic National Park, a wilderness permit is generally not required. However, you will need to pay the park entrance fee. If your urban hike extends into the backcountry or involves overnight stays, specific permits may be necessary. For detailed information on fees and permits, visit the official NPS website: nps.gov/olym.
What do other hikers enjoy about urban hiking in Olympic National Park?
The komoot community highly rates the urban hiking experiences in Olympic National Park, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of these trails, the stunning natural beauty that feels close to urban centers, and the opportunity to experience the park's diverse ecosystems, from rainforest edges to coastal views, without needing extensive gear or time.
Are there any urban trails that offer unique natural features or 'hidden gems'?
While many urban trails offer accessible beauty, the Living Forest Trail provides a unique, short immersion into the temperate rainforest environment, showcasing monumental Sitka spruce trees and lush mosses. These trails offer a taste of the park's iconic natural features, even within more developed areas.
What should I wear for urban hiking in Olympic National Park?
Given the varied weather in Olympic National Park, even on urban trails, it's best to dress in layers. Comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing is recommended. Waterproof or water-resistant outerwear is advisable, especially during wetter seasons, as the region is known for its temperate rainforests. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Is parking available at the trailheads for urban hikes?
Yes, parking is generally available at or near the trailheads for urban hikes, especially those located close to towns like Port Angeles. For routes like the Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront, you'll find designated parking areas. Always check specific trailhead information for details on parking availability and any potential fees.
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