Olympic National Park a Journey to Majesty

Climbing Mt. Olympus in Olympic National Park is an exhilarating and challenging adventure that offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. As the highest peak in the park, standing at an impressive 7,980 feet (2,432 meters). While this is almost half the height of the more famous Mt. Raineer, I think the Glaciers on Olympus are more impressive. Mt. Olympus attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. With its rugged terrain, glacial features, and diverse ecosystems, the mountain offers a unique and rewarding climbing experience.

Before I get into the hike/climb to Mt. Olympus I’d like to add some information on the National Park that Mt. Olympus calls home. Olympic National Park is a stunning and diverse national park located in the state of Washington on the Olympic Peninsula. It encompasses nearly one million acres of preserved wilderness, offering a unique combination of rugged coastline, ancient rainforests, glaciated mountains, and pristine alpine meadows. Established in 1938, Olympic National Park is not only recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site but also designated as an International Biosphere Reserve.

Here are some key features and highlights of Olympic National Park:

1. Ecosystem Diversity: Olympic National Park is renowned for its remarkable diversity of ecosystems. It is home to three distinct regions: the Pacific coastline, temperate rainforests, and the glaciated peaks of the Olympic Mountains. This diversity supports an incredible array of plant and animal species, making it a haven for biodiversity.
   • Coastline: The park boasts over 70 miles of wild, rugged coastline. Characterized by sea stacks, rocky cliffs, and pristine beaches, the coastline offers scenic views, tide pools teeming with marine life, and opportunities for beachcombing and wildlife spotting. Popular coastal destinations include Rialto Beach, Ruby Beach, and Kalaloch Beach.
   • Temperate Rainforests: Olympic National Park is famous for its lush temperate rainforests, which are among the wettest places in the continental United States. The Hoh, Quinault, and Queets Rainforests are prime examples of this unique ecosystem. These moss-draped forests are filled with towering ancient trees, including Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and Douglas fir. The dense canopy, vibrant understory, and abundance of ferns create a magical and enchanting atmosphere.
   • Olympic Mountains: The Olympic Mountains dominate the park’s interior, with several peaks reaching over 7,000 feet (2,134 meters) in elevation. Mt. Olympus, the highest peak, stands at 7,980 feet (2,432 meters) and presents a formidable challenge to climbers. Glaciers, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes are scattered throughout the mountain range, offering breathtaking scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and mountaineering.
2. Wildlife: Olympic National Park supports a diverse range of wildlife. Visitors may encounter various species, including Roosevelt elk, black bears, mountain goats, marmots, bobcats, and several bird species. The park’s marine environments are also home to seals, sea otters, and migratory whales.
3. Recreation and Outdoor Activities: Olympic National Park offers a wealth of recreational opportunities. The park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging multi-day backpacking routes. Popular hikes include the Hoh River Trail, Hurricane Ridge, Sol Duc Falls, and the Enchanted Valley. Camping, fishing, birdwatching, kayaking, and wildlife photography are also popular activities within the park.
4. Preservation and Conservation: Olympic National Park is committed to preserving its pristine ecosystems and fragile habitats. It serves as an important center for scientific research, conservation efforts, and environmental education. The park’s diverse ecosystems contribute to its status as an International Biosphere Reserve, highlighting the significance of its natural resources.

Visiting Olympic National Park offers a chance to immerse oneself in breathtaking natural beauty, explore diverse ecosystems, and experience outdoor adventures. Whether it’s the dramatic coastline, enchanting rainforests, or majestic mountains, the park offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Pacific Northwest’s wilderness. The purpose of our trip was to climb Mt. Olympus, so lets get back to that.

Before embarking on the journey to climb Mt. Olympus, it is important to be well-prepared and informed about the mountain’s challenges and requirements. Here is a detailed guide to help you plan your ascent:

• Physical Preparation: Climbing Mt. Olympus requires a good level of physical fitness. Below you can see the map of our route which covered 40+ miles and 14,444 of vertical. You’ll be doing all of this with a fully loaded pack with the additional weight of climbing gear. Additionally, consider taking part in altitude training or acclimatization hikes to prepare your body for the higher elevations if you are coming from lower elevations.

• Permits and Regulations: Obtaining the necessary permits is crucial before starting your climb. Olympic National Park has specific regulations in place to protect its fragile ecosystems and ensure the safety of climbers. You can obtain permits Online here or at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles. I recommend taking care of this online and not risking a trip to the information center as all permits might already be taken. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the park’s rules and regulations to minimize your impact on the environment.
• Route Selection: There are several routes to choose from when climbing Mt. Olympus, each with its own characteristics and challenges. The most popular route is the Hoh River Trail, which begins at the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center. This route takes you through lush rainforests, river crossings, and eventually leads to the Blue Glacier and the summit. This is the route we took.
• Gear and Equipment: Having the right gear and equipment is essential for a safe and successful climb. Some of the necessary items include:
  • Climbing helmet
  • Harness and ropes (for glacier travel, climb, and rappel)
  • Ice axe and crampons
  • Mountaineering boots
  • Layered clothing suitable for various weather conditions and rain gear
  • Camping gear (Tent, sleeping pads, sleeping bag, etc…)
  • Adequate food and water supplies (filtration system)
  • Navigation tools (map, compass, GPS)
  • First aid kit
  • Headlamp and extra batteries
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Weather Considerations: The weather on Mt. Olympus can be highly unpredictable, with rapid changes in temperature, precipitation, and visibility. Check the weather forecast before your climb and be prepared for varying conditions. Storms and high winds are common, especially at higher elevations. It is important to exercise caution and postpone your climb if the weather is severe or unsafe.
• Campsites and Water Sources: There are designated campsites along the Hoh River Trail and near the Blue Glacier, providing opportunities for overnight stays during the climb. Familiarize yourself with the locations of these campsites and plan your itinerary accordingly. Additionally, ensure you have access to reliable water sources throughout the climb, as dehydration can be a significant risk. I’ll include the campsites we used below.
• Safety Considerations: Climbing Mt. Olympus involves inherent risks, and safety should be a top priority. Always climb with a partner or a group, as the mountain’s terrain can be treacherous and accidents can happen. Practice proper rope and glacier travel techniques if you plan to traverse the Blue Glacier route. Stay aware of potential hazards, such as crevasses and falling rocks. It is also recommended to carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite phone for emergency situations.

• Climbing/Rappelling Skills: Due to the popularity of this peak, there are likely to be several groups gathered around the final rock face of the peak. This is about a ~ 50 of technical climbing where some will choose to rope up and belay other climbers. The climbing is not that difficult (most lines are about Class 5.3-5.4) but the exposure is high. There are multiple options for climbing to the top, try to choose the one that looks the best or is not being used by another group. Due to the exposure, you will want to have the skills and ability to rappel from the anchor station at the top. This is possibly the most dangerous part of the ascent so make sure you have the skills to complete this safely.
• Leave No Trace Principles: As with any outdoor adventure, it is crucial to follow the principles of Leave No Trace to preserve the pristine beauty of the mountain and its surroundings. Minimize your impact by packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife and plant life. Leave the mountain as you found it, ensuring future climbers can enjoy its natural splendor.

Here is the information on our route and where we camped – Lewis Campsite, Elk Lake, and Glacier Meadows while climbing Mt. Olympus:

1. Lewis Campsite: We hiked straight in to Lewis Campsite. This is a popular camping spot along the Hoh River Trail, situated approximately 9 miles from the trailhead. It serves as a the first camp for many climbers heading towards Mt. Olympus. The campsite offers a tranquil setting surrounded by lush rainforests and the serene sounds of the Hoh River. It provides basic amenities such as pit toilets and established campsites. The meadow is large with many spots to camp, but try to get there early as the best spots will likely be taken. I highly recommend hiking all the way to the river to see if the campsite next to the river is still open. This looked like the best site to me, but it was taken by the time we got there. Respect quiet hours and be mindful of other campers who may be resting for their ascent. It’s advisable to secure any food or scented items to prevent wildlife encounters, as black bears are known to roam the area. Proper food storage techniques, such as using bear canisters, are recommended.
2. Glacier Meadows: The following day we hiked to Glacier Meadows. It is the last established campsite before reaching the Blue Glacier, making it a common resting point for climbers attempting a summit. It is located at an elevation of approximately 5,400 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and rugged terrain. The campsite provides access to freshwater sources, established tent platforms (though limited in quantity) and pit toilets. However, due to the exposed nature of the area, campers should be prepared for potentially harsh weather conditions. Strong winds, cold temperatures, and frequent precipitation are common at Glacier Meadows, so be sure to have appropriate gear to stay warm and dry. Keep an eye out for marmots, mountain goats, and other wildlife that may frequent the area, but remember to observe them from a safe distance and avoid feeding them.
3. Elk Lake: After our summit we had permits for Elk Lake. This picturesque alpine lake is located approximately 13 miles from the Hoh River Trailhead. The lake is surrounded by towering peaks, pristine meadows, and offers stunning reflections of the surrounding landscape. The campsite provides stunning views and a serene atmosphere, allowing climbers to rest and recharge before continuing their ascent. There are no established facilities at Elk Lake, so climbers must be prepared to practice Leave No Trace principles, including properly disposing of waste and respecting the fragile ecosystem.

These camping areas along the ascent to Mt. Olympus provide essential resting points and opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Olympic National Park. Take time to appreciate the surroundings, recharge your energy, and continue your journey towards the summit. One of the highlights for me was hiking the massive Blue Glacier itself. The sight of the glacier, with its deep blue ice and crevasses, is truly mesmerizing. Hiking the Blue Glacier is an opportunity to connect with the park’s natural wonders, witness the forces that shaped the landscape, and experience the grandeur of Olympic National Park firsthand.

Climbing Mt. Olympus in Olympic National Park is a remarkable experience that requires careful planning, physical preparation, and adherence to safety guidelines. The journey will test your physical and mental endurance, but the reward of standing atop this majestic peak and taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness is truly awe-inspiring. Enjoy the adventure and make memories that will last a lifetime.

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