Ultimate weekend on the Olympic Peninsula: enchanted forests, tide-pooling and Twilight encounters

23.09.2024 - 19:31 / lonelyplanet.com

Sep 23, 2024 • 7 min read

In Western Washington , fall comes hard and fast and seemingly overnight. As a born-and-raised Washingtonian, I know all too well how the first cool day sparks the desire for crisp late-morning hikes, quaint seaside towns and, if you’re like me, the need to experience the Twilight movies for yourself. Trust me, a trip west to the Olympic Peninsula can easily achieve your fall dreams. 

When people think of "Washington", many are thinking of the Olympic Peninsula: rugged beaches, forests so lush and green, and towering mountains surrounding you. If you want to feel the full Pacific Northwest experience, head here.

When to arrive: September through late October is ideal for fall foliage and weather. But you can go any time of the year; just be prepared for colder temperatures and rain. Locals don’t shy away from soggy adventures – neither should you! Do be aware that in winter it can be very snowy at higher elevations, and certain sites like Hurricane Ridge will be challenging to visit. 

How to get from the airport: Fly into SeaTac airport and pick up a rental car before driving to the Peninsula.

Getting around: Cars are necessary in Washington, and outside of Seattle, it is hard to get anywhere without them. Expect few rideshare options like Lyft and Uber outside of major cities. 

Where to stay: This begs the question: how hardcore PNW you are trying to be? If camping is what you are after, the Olympic National Park is jam-packed with camping opportunities. Hoh River campsite is a personal favorite. If you prefer a romantic boutique hotel, instead try the Palace Hotel in Port Townsend and Misty Valley Inn in Forks. 

What to pack: The weather can be very unpredictable during fall, so pack layers and rain gear. Boots are a must. Umbrellas in the PNW are a no-no as rain tends to be more of a light mist. When it does rain hard, it's generally accompanied by strong winds, which makes an umbrella useless. A waterproof jacket with a hood is the way to go. 

Morning: Welcome to the stunning Pacific Northwest . Today, we are diving in head first. Whether you fly into Seattle or are driving, make sure to start early. Our first stop is Forks, Washington. Not only will you have the chance to indulge in a little Twilight , but it's also the perfect place to get a true feel for the region. Forks is famous for being the rainiest town in the contiguous United States.

Begin your day by heading into town to grab a quick coffee and pastry from A Shot in the Dark . If you prefer a sit-down meal, The In Place is a solid option for traditional diner food. It is important to note that the Olympic Peninsula is known for its nature, not its food, so cooking is always a good