Olympic National Park is a natural wonder that boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged coastlines to lush rainforests and snow-capped peaks. One of the park’s most defining features is its remarkable rainfall patterns, which can vary significantly across different regions. As a state park touring enthusiast, understanding the Olympic National Park rainfall by month can help you plan your visit and make the most of your outdoor adventures.
Rainfall Variations Across the Park
Olympic National Park experiences a wide range of rainfall throughout the year, with some areas receiving up to 12 feet (3.6 meters) of rain annually. The Hoh Rain Forest, in particular, is known for its exceptionally high rainfall, averaging almost 12 feet (3.6 meters) per year. In contrast, the town of Sequim, located in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, receives an average of only 17 inches (43 cm) of rain per year.
The park’s weather is heavily influenced by its location, with the Olympic Mountains blocking cold arctic air from Canada and the Pacific Ocean serving as the source of most weather systems. This results in a diverse range of rainfall patterns across the park:
- Olympic Coast: Receives an average of 103 inches (261 cm) of rain per year.
- Hoh Rainforest: Receives an average of 135 inches (343 cm) of rain per year.
- Port Angeles: Receives an average of 26 inches (66 cm) of rain per year.
Seasonal Rainfall Patterns
Rainfall in Olympic National Park is not evenly distributed throughout the year. Instead, the park experiences distinct seasonal patterns:
Winter Months (December to February)
The winter months bring the highest rainfall to the park, with the Hoh Rainforest receiving an average of 18 inches (46 cm) of rain between December and February.
Summer Months (June to August)
In contrast, the summer months are much drier, with the Olympic Coast receiving an average of just 3 inches (7.6 cm) of rain between June and August.
Tidal Considerations
Visitors to Olympic National Park should also be aware of the tides, as the coastal areas experience two high and two low tides per day. Headlands that are easily passable at low tide can become dangerously impassable at high tide, potentially stranding hikers. Always carry a current tide table and plan your coastal hikes accordingly.
Monthly Rainfall Breakdown
To help you plan your visit to Olympic National Park, here’s a breakdown of the average monthly rainfall across different regions of the park:
| Month | Olympic Coast (inches) | Hoh Rainforest (inches) | Port Angeles (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 16.5 | 22.5 | 5.5 |
| February | 13.5 | 18.0 | 4.5 |
| March | 12.0 | 16.5 | 4.0 |
| April | 9.0 | 13.5 | 3.0 |
| May | 6.0 | 10.5 | 2.0 |
| June | 3.0 | 6.0 | 1.5 |
| July | 2.0 | 4.5 | 1.0 |
| August | 3.0 | 6.0 | 1.5 |
| September | 6.0 | 10.5 | 2.0 |
| October | 12.0 | 16.5 | 4.0 |
| November | 15.0 | 19.5 | 5.0 |
| December | 17.0 | 22.5 | 5.5 |
As you can see, the Hoh Rainforest consistently receives the highest rainfall throughout the year, while Port Angeles experiences the lowest precipitation. Keep these figures in mind when planning your outdoor activities and packing the appropriate gear.
Conclusion
Olympic National Park’s diverse landscapes and weather patterns make it a unique and captivating destination for state park touring enthusiasts. By understanding the park’s rainfall by month, you can better prepare for your visit and make the most of your outdoor adventures. Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline, hiking through the lush rainforests, or admiring the snow-capped peaks, Olympic National Park offers a truly unforgettable experience.
References:
– National Park Service – Olympic National Park Weather Brochure
– Olympic Peninsula – Weather
– My Olympic Park – Rainfall and Tides