The Olympic Peninsula is filled with wildly scenic views all around. It seems like every curve in the road unveils a sight even more beautiful than the last. Bring your camera, phone, or watercolors as you’ll want to capture these vistas to bring home with you. You can compile them into your own personal coffee table book or frame them to remember your trip to the awe-inspiring Olympic Peninsula.
Ruby Beach
When most people think of beaches they envision palm trees and perfect white sand. But on the Olympic Coast, you’ll find large sea stacks weathered from the crashing waves, ferns growing out of every crack in the earth, and tidal pools teeming with life. This popular spot is the perfect place to capture a sunset photo as the sun dips beyond the ocean
Hurricane Ridge
The views from Hurricane Ridge are so beautiful that a photo can’t fully capture it all. The rugged peaks carry on as far as the eye can see, and wildlife and alpine flowers are abundant at the peak. You could take your photos from the visitor center, but in order to get a truly special photograph you’ll want to hike along one of the trails winding through the forests.
Lake Crescent
Tucked between the mountain peaks lies a massive turquoise lake that is surrounded by evergreen trees and miles upon miles of hiking trails. Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle around the waters, soak up some sun on one of the decks or boat launches, or spend the day swimming at one of the beaches. Visit on a sunny day to capture the unbelievably blue hues of the lake or on a rainy day for an iconic Pacific Northwest photo
Rainforests
There are several spots where you can wander into the lush Washington forests where you’ll find thick swaths of moss hanging over every available branch, rock, and building in sight. You can visit the Quinault Rainforest, Queets Rainforest, Bogachiel Rainforest or the Hoh Rainforest for your photographing adventures. The Hoh Rainforest is a popular spot for hiking and photographing the green surroundings, and this is the backdrop for most of the photos of Washington’s rainforests.
Sol Duc Falls
While there are plenty of gushing waterfalls all over the peninsula, Sol Duc Falls is one of the favorites. A short hike through evergreen forests and over wooden bridges leads you to the waterfalls which can be seen from above. The steadily flowing river winds through the woods until a sudden drop-off. Take your photos from one of the viewing decks and plan your visit during the rainy season to see this waterfall at its full capacity.
Washington Lavender Farm
Located in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, the rich soil and the ideal microclimate of the Sequim Valley makes a perfect environment for growing fine lavender. Come and enhance your senses in fields of lavender, surrounded by a panorama of unparalleled views. The best time to visit the farm is during the summertime when the lavender is in bloom. While your camera can’t capture the sweet aroma, the fields are gorgeous and so much fun to photograph.
Looking for the most scenic vistas on the Olympic Peninsula? Book a stay at the George Washington Inn, an upscale B&B overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca.