Olympic National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with its old-growth temperate rainforests, glacier-capped mountains, and over 70 miles of wild coastline. To protect this fragile ecosystem and ensure a quality wilderness experience, the National Park Service requires a permit for all overnight stays in the wilderness year-round. This guide will provide you with detailed information on securing an Olympic National Park Backcountry Permit, including costs, timings, directory, hours, rates, value, and other quantifiable details.
Cost of Olympic National Park Backcountry Permits
The cost of an Olympic National Park Backcountry Permit is as follows:
| Permit Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Adults (16 and older) | $8 per person per night |
| Youth (15 and under) | Free |
| Annual Olympic National Park Wilderness Pass | Free for pass holder only |
Additionally, a $6.00 non-refundable reservation fee is required for each overnight permit reserved, including Annual Olympic National Park Wilderness Pass holders.
Timings and Reservations for Olympic National Park Backcountry Permits
Reservations for Olympic National Park Wilderness camping permits can be made up to 6 months in advance year-round for some sites, while permits for higher-elevation summer camping can be reserved starting April 15, 2024. The summer camping reservation season at Olympic National Park is May 15 through Oct. 15.
To increase your chances of securing the desired wilderness camping permit, follow these steps:
- Research and plan your itinerary.
- Check if your planned itinerary can be reserved in advance.
- Know when you can start the application process.
- If you cannot get a reservation for the sites you want, try a first-come, first-served permit.
- Consider changing your itinerary if necessary.
- Consider booking with a guiding company for a hassle-free experience.
Quotas and First-Come, First-Served Olympic National Park Backcountry Permits
Some areas in Olympic National Park have specific permit quotas and availability:
100% Reservable Areas:
– Ozette Coast
– Royal Basin
– Lake Constance
– Upper Lena Lake
– Flapjack Lakes
50% Reservable, 50% First-Come, First-Served Areas:
– Grand and Badger Valleys
– Sol Duc/ Seven Lakes Basin/ Mink Lake
– Hoh Lake and C.B. Flats
– Hoh River Trail
You can visit one of the Wilderness Information Centers, located in Port Angeles, Quinault, and Hoodsport, to try for a walk-up permit or to pick up your permit reservation.
Additional Information on Olympic National Park Backcountry Permits
Here are some additional details to keep in mind when planning your Olympic National Park wilderness trip:
- Leave No Trace: Follow all principles of Leave No Trace, including planning ahead, traveling and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly, and respecting wildlife.
- Cancellation Policy: You may cancel your reservation three or more full days before your reservation start date and receive a refund. The $6 reservation fee is non-refundable.
- Change Policy: You may make changes to your permit itinerary if space is available up until the day before your reservation date, and before your permit has been issued at a Wilderness Information Center (additional fees may apply).
Wilderness Information Centers
For more information or to pick up your permit reservation, visit one of the Wilderness Information Centers:
- Port Angeles Wilderness Information Center: 600 East Park Avenue, Port Angeles, WA 98362; (360) 565-3100
- Quinault Wilderness Information Center: South Shore Road, Quinault, WA 98575
- Hoodsport Wilderness Information Center: 145 National Park Drive, Hoodsport, WA 98548
By understanding the cost, timings, quotas, and other details of the Olympic National Park Backcountry Permits, you can plan your wilderness adventure with confidence and ensure a memorable experience in this stunning natural wonder.
References:
– Backcountry Beginners: How to Secure an Olympic Backcountry Permit
– Olympic National Park Wilderness Trip Planner
– Olympic Backpacking Permits
– Recreation.gov – Olympic National Park Wilderness Permits
– Backcountry Wilderness Permit Info