On September 24, 2022, my husband and I left Port Angeles and began our first full day exploring Olympic National Park. The morning air was cool, the sky clear, and the promise of waterfalls, lakes, and rugged coastline made the day feel full of possibility. Our route would take us from the deep blues of Lake Crescent to the moss‑covered forests of Marymere Falls and Sol Duc Falls, ending with a dramatic sunset hike along Rialto Beach. It was the kind of day that reminds you why Olympic National Park is considered one of the most diverse landscapes in the country.

Lake Crescent: A Serene Beginning

Our first stop was the iconic Lake Crescent sign, about 18 miles from Port Angeles. The lake shimmered in the morning light, its glassy surface reflecting the surrounding mountains. A group of divers was preparing to enter the water, their gear spread out along the shore. Watching them slip beneath the calm surface added a sense of quiet adventure to the moment. Lake Crescent always feels serene, but that morning it seemed especially peaceful—an ideal start to the day.

Marymere Falls: A Forest Walk to a Gentle Cascade

Next, we headed to the Marymere Falls trailhead, a popular 1.7‑mile hike that winds through old‑growth forest. Towering trees, filtered sunlight, and the earthy scent of the woods made the walk beautiful, even before reaching the falls. The ground was dry; it hadn’t rained in a while, and the waterfall was unfortunately just a thin trickle. Although Marymere Falls wasn’t at its best, the forest itself was enchanting, and the trail offered plenty of quiet moments to appreciate the surroundings.

After the hike, we stopped at Lake Crescent Lodge, a historic retreat with one of the most picturesque lakefront views in the park. With a drink in hand, we sat outside and admired the scene—rowers gliding across the water, visitors examining rental kayaks, and others simply soaking in the beauty. It was a peaceful pause before continuing deeper into the park.

Sol Duc Falls: Moss, Mist, and Rewarding Views

Our second hike of the day was the Sol Duc Falls Trail, a crowded but worthwhile 1.6‑mile walk through lush, moss‑covered forest. This trail felt more vibrant than Marymere—green, damp, and full of life. The falls themselves were spectacular, tumbling dramatically into a narrow gorge. The sound of rushing water echoed through the trees, and the viewing bridge offered an unforgettable perspective. It’s an easy hike and absolutely a must‑do when visiting the area.

Rialto Beach & Hole in the Wall: A Sunset Finale

After checking into our lodging and having dinner in town, we drove to Rialto Beach for a sunset hike to Hole in the Wall. This 3.3‑mile out‑and‑back trail is flat, but the terrain varies—pebbles, driftwood, and stretches of hard‑packed sand. The coastline is rugged and dramatic, especially in the evening light. As we approached Hole in the Wall, the rocks became slippery, so I was grateful for my hiking boots.

The key to this hike is timing: you must reach the wall at low tide. At high tide, the route becomes dangerous or impassable. We arrived at the perfect moment, able to explore the rock formations and tide pools safely. The sunset painted the sky in warm colors, and the entire scene felt almost otherworldly. I highly recommend this hike—just be sure to check the tide schedule.

If You Go

Lake Crescent

• Best For: Scenic views, photography, kayaking
• Tip: Stop at Lake Crescent Lodge for lakeside relaxation.

Marymere Falls

• Best For: Forest lovers, easy waterfall hikes
• Tip: Water flow varies greatly depending on recent rainfall.

Sol Duc Falls

• Best For: Mossy forest scenery, rewarding waterfall views
• Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds on this popular trail.

Rialto Beach & Hole in the Wall

• Best For: Sunset photography, tidepool exploration
• Tip: Wear hiking boots and check tide charts—low tide is essential.

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Reference Lake Crescent, Sol Duc Falls Trail, Marymere Falls Trail, Hole in the wall, Rialto Beach

Olympic National Park Photos

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Washington State Hiking and Attraction Map

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You might enjoy these posts nearby:

• Quinault Rain Forest, WA
• Mount Rainier – Paradise, WA
• Rialto Beach, Crescent Lake, Olympic National Park, WA
• Point No Point Lighthouse and Port Angeles, WA
• Upper Falls and Lower Falls, Washington
• Snoqualmie Falls, WA
• Huntoon Trail, Mt Baker Wilderness, WA
• Picture Lake, Mt Baker Wilderness, WA
• Chain Lakes Trail Upper, Mt Baker Wilderness, WA
• Chain Lakes Trail Lower, Mount Baker Wilderness, WA

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