Still making your summer-plus travel plans? Consider a visit to Washington’s most northwest region – the Olympic Peninsula. (We say “summer-plus” because out here summer weather runs on into September!) Sure, we’ve got Olympic National Park with its mountains, forests and coastal beaches to explore. But we are more than just a park. Here are some lesser-known, super-fun, adrenaline-rushing, only-here experiences you can enjoy this summer.
The Stars Are Out Tonight
And the planets too. This summer, experience the park differently – after dark! A “don’t miss” experience is the Night Sky Program from atop Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park. Led by a team of knowledgeable “Dark Rangers,” the schedule includes dark sky telescope programs, full moon hikes, and moon focused programs. These programs are FREE (Olympic National Park pass or paid entry required) and are offered, weather permitting, during prime viewing times in the summer.
Cycling Adventures
For all you endurance riders, don’t miss the Why-Not-Chee Gravel Unravel, on July 26 at Wynoochee Lake in Olympic National Forest. These gravel rides are for those that really want to challenge their physical abilities in some rugged but breathtaking environments.
Looking for something more laid back? Check out Tour de Lavender in Sequim, Saturday August 2. This one-of-a-kind cycling event visits the iconic lavender farms across Sequim Dungeness Valley and is open to cyclists of all ages and abilities.
And now for something really unique: Ride the Hurricane. Each year, on the first Sunday of August (August 3, 2025), cyclists have an extraordinary opportunity to ride the iconic Hurricane Ridge Road, from sea level in Port Angeles to mountain top at Hurricane Ridge, when the road is closed to all other motor vehicles. Advanced registration is required. Definitely a bucket list experience for avid cyclists!
Tastes of The Olympic Peninsula
Is fresh local food your thing? Head to Allyn, for their Salmon Bake and Geoduck Festival, July 18-20. In addition to indulging in perfectly prepared salmon, try your hand at the oyster shucking competition and enjoy slurping the results of your work!
For a real taste of small-town Americana, don’t miss the 42nd Annual Joyce Daze Wild Blackberry Festival, August 2 in Joyce. There’s pie. There’s a pancake breakfast. There’s pie. There’s a parade. There’s pie. There’s a crafts fair. Did we mention there’s pie?
Little Feet, Big Adventures
Wondering how to keep the kids busy while traveling across the Olympic Peninsula? Check out Carrie Blake Park in Sequim, with its green space, playgrounds, trails and even an off-leash park for your pup. Kids will also love the Port Angeles Pump Track with its rolling series of loop paths. All you need is wheels and a helmet. Or head further west for tidepooling at Salt Creek Recreation Area. The family will delight in its underwater park, replete with sea urchins, anemones and sea cucumbers.
Spend the Night Outside
Nothing says summer more than a night under the stars. Sleep beneath ancient trees, wake to salty sea air and roam wild coastlines. Camping and RVing on the Olympic Peninsula blends adventure with serene beauty. Clallam County and WA State Parks have reservation systems in place for the summer, as does Olympic National Park at recreation.gov. Or you can “boondock” in Olympic National Forest without reservations.
Lights! Camera! Action!
In 2005, the world was introduced to a novel called “Twilight,” a young adult vampire-romance novel set in Forks on the Olympic Peninsula. Twenty years, four books and five movies later, Forks is still ground-zero for “Twi-hards” of all ages. Each year, fans flock to Forks from all over the world to celebrate Forever Twilight in Forks in September (this year’s festival is September 11-14).
Speaking of movies, mark your calendars for the 26th Annual Port Townsend Film Festival, September 18-21, 2025. Referred to as “Sundance by the sea,” this film festival is renowned for its great hospitality and its strong filmmaker support. Each year, Port Townsend welcomes about 2,000 attendees, 30+ filmmakers and over 50 films. Stay tuned for more details on the 2025 program!
You can see that the Olympic Peninsula is more than just a park (even if it is a pretty amazing park). Check out some of the sights, sounds and tastes of the Olympic Peninsula this summer!
Click HERE to see what events are happening on the Olympic Peninsula
