With its incredible range of precipitation and elevation, diversity is the hallmark of Olympic National Park. Encompassing nearly a million acres, the park protects a vast wilderness, thousands of years of human history, and several distinctly different ecosystems, including glacier-capped mountains, old-growth temperate rain forests, and over 70 miles of wild coastline. Come explore!
Current Alerts
- DangerLightning Fire Reported North of Maiden Peak
A lightning fire is burning near a ridgeline approximately 1 mile north of Maiden Peak. The fire is less than one acre in size. Fire managers are responding and ordering resources to assess other potential lightning starts within the park. There are no evacuation orders or closures.
- DangerLightning Fire Southeast of Mt. Barnes
Fire managers are responding to a lightning fire in a remote area 1.5 miles southwest of Mt. Barnes. The fire is less than one acre. Crews continue to use helicopter‑delivered water drops to support ongoing fire suppression efforts. There are no closures or evacuation orders. Additional updates will be shared as information becomes available.
- DangerBat Tests Positive for Rabies, Visitors Urged to Report Potential Contact
A rabid bat was found at Olympic National Park near Staircase Bridge on August 9th. At approximately 2 p.m., the bat swooped down onto an unidentified woman and was temporarily caught in her hair. This individual is at risk for rabies and should seek healthcare immediately, as well as contact the Mason County Health Department at 360-427-9670 ext. 405. More at the link.
More info → - DangerCrews Responding to Mount Tom Creek Fire
The lightning-caused Mt. Tom Creek Fire is burning on a remote mountain slope on the west side of Olympic National Park. Firefighters are using indirect confinement tactics as part of a full-suppression strategy. Backpackers are encouraged to consider alternative routes to the Hoh River Trail should fire activity increase. There are no evacuation orders or closures.
More info → - CautionStaircase Developed Area is Open, Use Caution in Burned Areas
The Staircase developed area is open. The surrounding wilderness areas will remain closed as repair and recovery efforts continue. Use extreme caution when entering burned areas. Burned landscapes may contain falling trees and branches, loose boulders, unstable ground, stump holes, landslides, and debris flows. Changing conditions such as wind, rain, or storms can rapidly trigger hazards. Learn more on our Fire Conditions and Updates page.
More info → - CautionFull Burn Ban Begins August 7
Due to increased fire activity and dry vegetation, all campfires will be prohibited starting on August 7. This includes wilderness, backcountry, non-developed and developed areas, and coastal beaches. Propane and gas stoves are allowed, if operated at least three feet away from flammable vegetation and forest litter.
- InformationExpect long delays at the Hoh Rainforest
Lengthy delays are likely at the Hoh Rainforest entrance station between 7:30 AM - 5 PM. Plan ahead for a 1-3+ hour wait. When the parking lot fills, traffic is metered at the entrance station. Bring what you need for a long wait, and be mindful of not blocking entrances to businesses or homes along the road.
- InformationSouth Shore Quinault Road Washed Out Beyond Park Boundary
South Shore Road – which is maintained by Jefferson County – is closed due to a major wash-out. For more information, visit the Jefferson County website.
More info → - Park ClosureMora Road Closed for Essential Repairs
Mora Road is closed to all traffic, including bicycles and pedestrians, at the campground. Rialto Beach is not accessible via Mora Road during this construction period. Mora Campground is open. This construction work will repair damage from a severe winter flood event, fortify the road against river migration, and protect long-term access to Rialto Beach.
Source: National Park Service.
Upcoming Events
- Hoh Rain Forest Talk (11 am)Sun Aug 23 2026Outdoor plaza at the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center
- Full Moon Hike: Hurricane HillThu Aug 27 2026The Hurricane Hill Trailhead
- Hoh Campground Bat CountSat Aug 29 2026Hoh Campground Amphitheater
- Maple Glade Walk: Quinault Rain ForestSat Aug 29 2026Quinault Rain Forest Ranger Station on North Shore Road
- Junior Ranger Walk - 2pmSun Aug 30 2026Olympic National Park Visitor Center - Port Angeles
- Junior Ranger Walk - 11amSun Aug 30 2026Olympic National Park Visitor Center - Port Angeles
- Hurricane Ridge Dark Sky Telescope ProgramWed Sep 02 2026Hurricane Ridge Parking Area
- Hurricane Ridge Dark Sky Telescope ProgramSat Sep 05 2026Hurricane Ridge Parking Area
- It's Your Moon! Telescope ProgramSat Sep 19 2026Hurricane Ridge Parking Area