The Olympic Peninsula

revised 4/2018

Many popular tourist and hiking destinations on the Olympic Peninsula can be reached by county-run bus systems. A ferry ride and multiple transfers between bus lines makes the trip a bit complicated. This is definitely a journey for bus riding aficionados only. At least the connections are in general tightly coordinated, keeping the travel time to a reasonable length.

This website offers a wealth of information on bus connections and possible hiking destinations on the Olympic Peninsula:

http://www.backpackingbybus.com/

Port Townsend

Port Townsend is well worth visiting for the sightseeing and shopping among the numerous historic buildings in its quaint downtown. There are also some hiking opportunities, too. Nearby Fort Worden State Park, located on the Puget Sound waterfront, is pretty and offers some short walks. Try walking the beach to Fort Worden from the marina at the north end of downtown, if the tide is reasonably low. Otherwise, follow Monroe Street over the top of the bluff to get to the park. Another walking opportunity starts at the south end of the town’s waterfront, where you will find a “rails to trails” path that goes on for many miles. Yet another possibility is to ride the ferry to Whidbey Island, where you can explore Fort Casey State Park located near the ferry dock. Lodging possibilities in Port Townsend are numerous, ranging from bed and breakfasts to full service hotels.

Lake Crescent and Barnes Creek

The section of Olympic National Park most easily reached by public bus --Lake Crescent --features the historic Lake Crescent Lodge, as well as a clutch of nearby hiking trails going to Storm King Mountain, Marymere Falls, and Barnes Creek. Nestled among steep, forested peaks, Lake Crescent is a beauty. The Lake Crescent Lodge offers moderate to expensive lodging near the picturesque shoreline of the lake. No camping is available at the vicinity of the lodge; however, the Barnes Creek Trail heads into the Olympic mountain back country, offering the possibility of short or extended backpack trips. This 8 mile long trail climbs to the heights of Aurora Ridge, where one can enjoy flower-strewn alpine meadows and views of Mount Olympus.

Hoh River and Bogachiel Rain Forests

The most famous part of Olympic National Park, the Hoh River Rain forest, is unfortunately not at all accessible by public bus. However, it is possible to take a bus out of the town of Forks to Bogachiel State Park, where a four mile walk will take you to the equally spectacular Bogacheil River forest. Expert backpackers can hike up the Bogachiel valley to the glorious alpine heights of High Divide. From there, one could take trails over Appleton Pass and Aurora Ridge, eventually arriving back to civilization at Lake Crescent.

Wilderness permits are required for overnight backcountry camping in Olympic National Park. Contact the Wilderness Information Center, Port Angeles, (360) 452-0300 or visit the website at www.nps.gov/olym/wic.htm.