Olympic National Park is a true gem for state park touring enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of boating opportunities to explore its stunning natural landscapes. From serene lake tours to thrilling backcountry paddling, this park provides a unique and unforgettable experience for water enthusiasts.
Boat Tours on Lake Quinault
One of the premier boating attractions in Olympic National Park is the boat tours offered on the serene Lake Quinault. The park provides three distinct tours, each offering a unique perspective on this picturesque lake:
- Daybreak Lake Tour: Enjoy the tranquility of the lake in the early morning hours, as you witness the sun rise over the surrounding forests and mountains.
- Afternoon Lake Tour: Explore the lake during the day, taking in the stunning scenery and wildlife that call Lake Quinault home.
- Evening Lake Tour: Experience the magic of the lake as the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the water and the surrounding landscape.
These tours are operated by Lake Quinault Lodge and run from May 26 to September 2, with rates of $50.00 for adults and $35.00 for children (ages 2-11). The lodge operates on a cashless basis, accepting only major credit cards for services and lodging deposits.
Paddling Opportunities
For those seeking a more hands-on boating experience, Olympic National Park offers a variety of paddling options, including kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Rentals for these non-motorized vessels are available at Lake Quinault Lodge, as well as the concession-operated Log Cabin Resort and Lake Crescent Lodge.
Half-day rentals for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available for $45.00, and life jackets are provided. Boat launches can be found at Storm King Ranger Station and Fairholme, allowing easy access to the park’s waterways.
Backcountry Paddling and Camping
For the more adventurous paddlers, Olympic National Park offers the opportunity to explore its remote backcountry waterways. However, a wilderness use permit is required for any overnight trips, and only non-motorized boats are allowed in wilderness areas. Boats must be carried on trails by foot or stock in stock-use areas.
The Pacific Coast of Olympic can be challenging even for expert sea kayakers, so beginners should consider trips with an experienced guide. Overnight trips along the wilderness coast require careful planning and preparation, including obtaining camping and permit information from the wilderness trip planner page.
Motorized Boating Restrictions
While Olympic National Park welcomes a variety of boating activities, there are some restrictions on the use of motorized vessels. Personal watercraft, such as Jet Skis, are not allowed within the park’s boundaries. Additionally, motorized boats are prohibited from landing on the park’s shorelines from the north bank of the Hoh River to the park’s boundary at the Makah Indian Reservation.
Water skiing and towing by motorized boats is permitted on Lake Crescent and Lake Ozette only, providing a limited opportunity for those seeking a more active boating experience.
Conclusion
Olympic National Park’s diverse boating offerings cater to a wide range of water enthusiasts, from those seeking a leisurely lake tour to the more adventurous paddlers exploring the park’s remote backcountry. Whether you’re interested in power boats, sailboats, kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards, this stunning wilderness provides a unique and unforgettable boating experience.
References:
– https://www.allolympicpark.com/summer_recreation/boating.php
– https://www.olympicnationalparks.com/things-to-do/boat-tours-of-lake-quinault/
– https://www.olympicnationalparks.com/things-to-do/boat-paddleboard-rentals-olympic-peninsula/
– https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/boating.htm