Exploring Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park: A Comprehensive Itinerary.
Reflection Lake: Mount Rainier National Park
Note: Each product has an affiliate link to the product, if you select to purchase through my affiliate link I earn a small commission that in turn helps me create more content like this (at no additional cost to you) and helps to support my small business. If you do choose to purchase something, I thank you so much for your support!
MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK OVERVIEW
Situated just southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainier National Park is dominated by the towering presence of Mount Rainier, a stratovolcano and the highest peak in the Cascade Range. Established in 1899, the park spans over 230,000 acres and offers breathtaking vistas, subalpine meadows, beautiful maintained trails, waterfalls, a variety of wildlife and so much more. This stunning location attracts climbers, hikers, and outdoor adventurers from around the world to be captivated by its beauty year round.
OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK OVERVIEW
Located in Washington State, along the Olympic peninsula, Olympic National Park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems ranging from rugged coastline and high peaked mountains to lush rainforests and beaches. Established in 1938, it covers nearly a million acres and is home to diverse wildlife including Roosevelt elk and the iconic Olympic marmot. It truly has something for everyone! Whether you want to hike to a mountaintop, swim in the ocean, drive to an overlook, or walk through a rainforest, Olympic National Park has pretty much everything you could ever want.
Hole in the Wall: Rialto Beach, Olympic National Park
GETTING THERE
Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park are both in Washington state and within a few hours of Seattle. Olympic National Park is along the Washington coast, while Mount Rainier is south. The closest airport to both national parks is SeaTac or Seattle- Tacoma International Airport. To get to Olympic National Park, you can drive or take the ferry to the Olympic Peninsula. To get to Mount Rainier National Park, you can drive. I always recommend renting a campervan for more of a camping/ road-trip type adventure!
PRICE
Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park each have a $30 entrance price for one vehicle. If you plan on visiting multiple national parks in one trip or a year, you can purchase the America the Beautiful Annual Pass. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass will allow you into any national park and federal recreation land for a year!
Note: Mount Rainier National Park now has a timed entry reservation system for entering the park between 7 AM to 3 PM during May through September for Paradise and July through September for Sunrise. You should get these as far in advance as possible since they fill up fast during peak months. If you do not have a permit, you can still enter the park before 7 AM and after 3 PM.
TIME NEEDED
Mount Rainier National Park:
Day Trip: If you're short on time, a day trip from nearby cities like Seattle or Tacoma can still allow you to experience the highlights such as Paradise or Sunrise areas, take short hikes, and enjoy scenic drives.
Overnight Visit: To fully explore the park, consider spending at least one night. This allows you to explore different areas of the park, take longer hikes, and potentially see sunrise or sunset, which can be absolutely beautiful.
Multi-Day Stay: For a more comprehensive experience, especially if you enjoy hiking, photography, or wildlife viewing, plan for 2-3 days or more. This allows you to explore both the popular spots and some of the lesser-known trails and viewpoints.
Olympic National Park:
Day Trip: Similar to Mount Rainier, you can visit Olympic National Park on a day trip from cities like Seattle or Port Angeles. Key destinations like Hurricane Ridge or the Hoh Rain Forest are accessible within a day.
Overnight Visit: Spending one or two nights allows you to explore different parts of the park more thoroughly. You can visit areas like Hurricane Ridge, the Pacific Coast beaches, and perhaps take a short hike in the rainforest.
Multi-Day Stay: To fully appreciate the diversity of Olympic National Park, consider staying 3-4 days or more. This allows you to explore the rainforests, beaches, and alpine areas in greater depth, take longer hikes, and enjoy more leisurely exploration.
Both parks offer a variety of activities including hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and scenic drives. Plan your time based on the activities you enjoy most!
Hoh Rainforest: Olympic National Park
WHERE TO STAY
Mount Rainier National Park offers a range of accommodations from lodges and inns to campgrounds that cater to different preferences. Mount Rainier National Park has five sections: Paradise, Longmire, Sunrise, Ohanapecosh and Cabron River/Mowich Lake. There is so much to do and to see in each, and they each make a great base camp for the park. Here are some of the best places to stay near Mount Rainier National Park:
Lodges and Inns:
Paradise Inn - Located at 5,400 feet on the south slope of Mount Rainier, this historic lodge offers rustic charm and beautiful views. It's one of the most iconic places to stay within the park.
National Park Inn - Situated in Longmire, this lodge provides a cozy atmosphere and convenient access to hiking trails and other park amenities.
Mountain Meadows Inn: Located in Ashford, a comfortable bed and breakfast with free breakfast and a hot tub
Crystal Mountain Resort- Situated on the northeast corner of Mount Rainier National Park, about 12 miles from the northeast entrance (Sunrise area) of the park. The resort is primarily known as a ski resort in the winter, offering skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing activities. In the summer, it transforms into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and sightseeing.
Campgrounds:
Ohanapecosh Campground - This campground is located in the southeastern part of the park and offers sites nestled among old-growth forest along the Ohanapecosh River.
White River Campground - Located on the northeastern side of the park, this campground offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and access to numerous hiking trails.
Cougar Rock Campground - Situated in the southwest part of the park near Longmire, this campground is conveniently located for exploring the Longmire area and offers beautiful forested surroundings.
Additional Options:
Sunrise Lodge - Offers day-use facilities and a small snack bar, but does not have overnight accommodations. However, Sunrise is a beautiful area to visit during the day.
Backcountry Camping - For those looking to backpack and camp in the wilderness, Mount Rainier offers backcountry camping permits which allow you to camp in designated wilderness areas.
Tips:
Reservations: Lodging and campgrounds within Mount Rainier National Park can fill up quickly, especially during the peak summer season. It's advisable to make reservations well in advance, particularly for the lodges and popular campgrounds like Ohanapecosh and White River.
Seasonal Availability: Some accommodations and campgrounds may be seasonal and closed during winter months due to snow.
Rialto Beach: Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park offers a diverse range of accommodations from lodges and inns to campgrounds, catering to different preferences and locations within the park. There are also several other options along the peninsula in Port Angeles. This tends to be a popular option due to its close proximity to the park, as well as its close proximity to many local restaurants, hotels and grocery stores. I have listed a couple of the top places to stay below. It's always good to have options :)
Lodges and Inns:
Lake Crescent Lodge- Located on the shores of Lake Crescent in the northern part of the park. This quaint mountain lodge offers historic charm, beautiful lake views, and proximity to hiking trails and outdoor activities.
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort- Situated in the Sol Duc Valley in the northwest part of the park. Known for its natural hot springs pools, which are a popular attraction providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring nearby trails and waterfalls.
Kalaloch Lodge- Located on the Pacific Coast in the southwest corner of the park. Offers stunning ocean views and beach access.
Quinault Lodge (Lake Quinault Lodge)- Found on the southern edge of the park near Lake Quinault. Offers accommodations with views of the lake and surrounding rainforest. Provides a peaceful setting with access to hiking trails and the Quinault Rainforest.
Campgrounds:
Heart O' the Hills Campground- Located near Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center in the northern part of the park. Offers tent and RV camping with access to hiking trails and panoramic mountain views.
Sol Duc Campground- Situated in the Sol Duc Valley, close to Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. Provides tent and RV camping in a lush forested setting near the Sol Duc River.
Kalaloch Campground- Offers oceanfront camping on the Pacific Coast. Known for its scenic views and beach access, with sites available for tents and RVs.
Hoh Campground- Located in the Hoh Rain Forest area in the western part of the park. Offers camping amidst ancient trees and near the Hoh River, with hiking trails nearby.
Additional Options:
Backcountry Camping- Olympic National Park also offers opportunities for backcountry camping in designated wilderness areas. Permits are required and can be obtained from park offices.
RV Parks and Private Campgrounds- Outside of the national park, there are also RV parks and private campgrounds that provide additional options for accommodations near Olympic National Park.
Tips:
Reservations: Lodging and campgrounds within Olympic National Park can fill up quickly, especially during the summer months and on weekends. It's advisable to make reservations well in advance, particularly for the lodges and popular campgrounds like Kalaloch and Sol Duc.
Seasonal Availability: Some accommodations and campgrounds may be seasonal and closed during winter months or have limited availability due to weather conditions.
Whether you prefer the comfort of a cozy mountain lodge or the serenity of camping under the stars, both Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park have options to suit various tastes and styles of adventure.
Summit Lake Trail: Mount Rainier National Park
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Summer, in my opinion, is the best time to visit Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park. The summer months have the best weather and most of the roads and facilities are open. But that opinion can be open to interpretation based on what type of adventure you are looking for. Each season is beautiful and unique in its own special way.
Here is what to expect during each season in Mount Rainier National Park:
Winter: Winters in Mount Rainier National Park are cold and very snowy. Because of the higher elevations you can expect Many of the roads and facilities to be closed in the winter, but you can still get to a few sections of the park. If you love snowshoeing or winter sports and don’t mind the cold, the stunning snowy landscapes of winter can be a beautiful and peaceful time to visit.
Spring: Spring in Mount Rainier National Park is different every year. Sometimes the snow will linger into June, so some roads and facilities will remain closed. Other times, the park will have a lot of rain. You can expect the alpine meadows to be covered in colorful displays of different wildflowers, especially in late June and early July. And spring is the best time to visit some of the many waterfall trails, the waterfalls will be gushing because of the snowmelt.
Summer: Summer is the best time to visit Mount Rainier National Park because the weather is beautiful and the bloomed wildflowers are everywhere. Most of the roads are now accessible even at the higher elevations and facilities will be open, too. Summer is prime time to spot wildlife in the park as well, you may have opportunities to see deer, elk and some smaller furry friends. Summer is ideal for clear views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding peaks as the rainy season lifts.
Fall: Fall is another one of the best times to visit Mount Rainier National Park because the foliage is beautiful. Larches and other deciduous trees change to beautiful shades of red and yellow, especially in late September and early October. You can expect a little quieter of a visit as compared to summer as the fall tends to draw less crowds. The weather in the fall tends to be a bit unpredictable. Late fall can bring snow, so some roads and trails may close early, depending on the snow conditions.
Here is what to expect during each season in Olympic National Park:
Winter: Winters are beautiful in Olympic National Park if you don’t mind snow and rain. Although the weather isn’t ideal in the winter, it’s a good time for snowshoeing and skiing. Like Mount Rainier, Many of the roads and trails at higher elevations will be closed as well as most of the facilities. Along the coast, storms can create dramatic wave action during the winter months, making it a unique time for a different coastal experience
Spring: Spring is one of the best times to visit Olympic National Park if you want to experience the lush vibrant greens of the rainforests and see wildlife. Snow can linger into late spring, so some roads and facilities will also remain closed. The spring also brings a lot of rain. Which means stunning raging waterfalls!
Summer: Summer is the best time to visit Olympic National Park because the weather is beautiful and most roads and facilities are open. It is also one of the busiest times to visit the park. As with Mount Range National Park, summer is the best time to catch glimpses of wildlife. Many trails are accessible, including those in the mountains and along the coast. If you want to hike, summer is the best season!
Fall: If you want to see beautiful foliage, fall is the perfect season to visit Olympic National Park. The maples and other trees in lowland areas like the Quinault Rain Forest turn beautiful shades of vibrant colors. Fall is when the rainy season begins, and you can experience a lot of rain and early snowfall in the mountains, particularly on the west side of the park. Again, Depending on the snow conditions, some roads and facilities may close early.
Tolmie Peak Lookout: Mount Rainier National Park
ACTIVITIES
Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park offer a wide variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Hiking is a prominent draw, with trails ranging from easy walks through old-growth forests to challenging climbs up the mountains. Scenic drives provide breathtaking views of the mountains, the coast and the surrounding landscapes. Wildlife watching is another popular pastime, with opportunities to spot deer, elk, marmots, and even black bears. During the summer, wildflowers carpet the meadows, making it a photographer's paradise. Winter brings opportunities for snowshoeing and skiing, with groomed trails and stunning snowy vistas.
HIKING
Hiking in Mount Rainier National Park promises an unforgettable experience featuring towering old-growth forests, wildflower meadows, and breathtaking alpine views. Trails range from easy walks like the Grove of the Patriarchs to strenuous ascents such as Burroughs Mountain. Popular spots like Paradise and Sunrise offer iconic views of Mount Rainier, while longer routes like the Wonderland Trail attract backpackers from around the world. Whether for a leisurely day hike or a multi-day trek, the park's trails cater to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of this iconic Pacific Northwest landscape.
Here are some great trails in Mount Rainier National Park:
Grove of the Patriarchs:
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal, mostly flat
Description: This short loop trail takes you through an ancient grove of towering Douglas fir and western red cedar trees, including some over 1,000 years old. It's an easy, family-friendly hike suitable for all ages.
Nisqually Vista Loop:
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Description: Starting near the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center, this loop offers stunning views of Mount Rainier, the Nisqually Glacier, and the surrounding Tatoosh Range. It's a great introduction to the alpine scenery of the park.
Skyline Trail:
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
Description: Beginning at Paradise, this loop trail takes you through subalpine meadows with wildflowers (best in mid-summer), past waterfalls, and offers panoramic views of Mount Rainier and the Cascade Range. It's one of the most popular hikes in the park.
Snow Lake Trail:
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: Approximately 6.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 1,800 feet
Description: The Snow Lake Trail starts from the Paradise area of Mount Rainier National Park, known for its meadows of wildflowers and views of the iconic mountain. The final stretch to Snow Lake involves a bit of climbing, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of the lake and the towering cliffs above. This is personally one of my favorite hikes in the park!
Comet Falls:
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 900 feet
Description: Starting at the Comet Falls Trailhead, this trail leads to Comet Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the park. It winds through lush forest and offers glimpses of Mount Rainier before reaching the impressive 320-foot waterfall.
Burroughs Mountain Trail:
Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: Varies (1st Burroughs: 3.0 miles round trip, 2nd Burroughs: 7.0 miles round trip, 3rd Burroughs: 9.0 miles round trip)
Elevation Gain: Varies (1st Burroughs: 900 feet, 2nd Burroughs: 1,400 feet, 3rd Burroughs: 2,500 feet)
Description: Located in the Sunrise area, this trail offers expansive views of glaciers, meadows, and Mount Rainier from different Burroughs Mountain viewpoints. The hike to the 3rd Burroughs is challenging but rewards you with unparalleled alpine scenery.
Panorama Point via Golden Gate Trail:
Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: 5.0 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet
Description: Beginning at Paradise, this trail ascends through wildflower meadows and subalpine terrain to Panorama Point, which offers sweeping views of Mount Rainier, the Tatoosh Range, and beyond. It's a challenging hike but provides some of the best views in the park.
Snow lake Trail: Mount Rainier National Park
Olympic National Park has over 600 miles of beautiful trails that range from easy to strenuous. You can expect lush temperate rainforests with towering trees and moss-covered trails in the west, while the central region offers alpine meadows surrounded by rugged peaks like Mount Olympus. The coastline to the west features dramatic sea stacks and pristine beaches. So, whether you want to hike to a hot spring, rainforest, waterfall, or mountaintop, Olympic National Park has a hike for everyone! It also has backpacking options if you are looking for multi-day hikes.
Here are some great trails in Olympic National Park:
Hall of Mosses
Challenge Level: Easy
Distance: 0.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Description: Located in the Hoh Rainforest, this short loop trail immerses hikers in a magical world of towering old-growth trees draped in vibrant green mosses and ferns. It's a perfect introduction to the lush rainforest environment of Olympic National Park.
Marymere Falls
Challenge Level: Easy
Distance: 1.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Description: Starting from Lake Crescent, this well-maintained trail leads through a forested area to Marymere Falls, a picturesque 90-foot waterfall. The trail offers views of the surrounding forest and a peaceful walk alongside Falls Creek.
Sol Duc Falls
Challenge Level: Easy
Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Description: A short, family-friendly hike through a beautiful old-growth forest to a stunning waterfall. Sol Duc Falls cascades dramatically over moss-covered rocks, making it a popular spot for photography
Hurricane Hill
Challenge Level: Moderate
Distance: 3.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 650 feet
Description: Beginning at Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center, this trail offers stunning panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Wildflowers bloom in summer, and wildlife such as mountain goats can often be spotted along the way.
Hole-in-the-Wall
Challenge Level: Moderate
Distance: 4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Description: Located on the coast at Rialto Beach, this hike leads to a unique rock formation known as Hole-in-the-Wall. Along the way, hikers can explore tidal pools teeming with marine life and enjoy views of sea stacks and the rugged Pacific coastline.
Mount Storm King
Challenge Level: Strenuous
Distance: 4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 2,100 feet
Description: Starting near Lake Crescent, this challenging hike rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of Lake Crescent and the surrounding mountains from above. The trail climbs steeply through forested slopes and rocky terrain to reach panoramic viewpoints.
Hall of Mosses: Olympic National Park
SCENIC DRIVES AND OVERLOOKS
If hiking isn’t your thing, there are plenty of scenic overlooks in Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park. Most of the roads through Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park are incredibly scenic, so you don’t need to go too far to get beautiful views. Here are some easy to get to overlooks in each national park:
Mount Rainier National Park:
Scenic Drives:
Paradise Valley Road: This road starts near the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise and provides access to stunning views of Mount Rainier, wildflower meadows (in summer), and trailheads for various hikes.
Sunrise Road: Located on the eastern side of Mount Rainier, Sunrise Road offers panoramic views of the mountain, alpine meadows, and access to several trails. It leads to the Sunrise Visitor Center, the highest point reachable by vehicle in the park.
Overlooks:
Ricksecker Point: On the road to Sunrise, before reaching the visitor center. This overlook offers sweeping views of Mount Rainier and the Emmons Glacier, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.
Narada Falls Viewpoint: Off the road between Longmire and Paradise. Here you will get a view of the impressive 168-foot Narada Falls, with Mount Rainier as the backdrop.
Box Canyon: Along Stevens Canyon Road. This spot features a narrow gorge carved by the powerful waters of the Muddy Fork Cowlitz River. There's a bridge and overlooks for views into the canyon.
Reflection Lakes: This iconic spot is located along the road between Longmire and Paradise.Known for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Rainier on calm days, offering serene views and excellent photo opportunities.
Olympic National Park:
Scenic Drives:
Hurricane Ridge Road: This scenic drive leads from Port Angeles to Hurricane Ridge, offering breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains, wildflower meadows (in summer), and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Hoh Valley Road: Accessible from Highway 101, this road leads into the lush Hoh Rainforest. It provides glimpses of towering old-growth trees, moss-covered landscapes, and access to trails along the Hoh River.
Lake Crescent Road: Runs along the northern shore of Lake Crescent, offering views of the crystal-clear waters and surrounding forested slopes. The road provides access to trailheads and viewpoints like Marymere Falls.
Overlooks:
Hurricane Ridge: Located at the end of Hurricane Ridge Road. You will see panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains, including Mount Olympus and its glaciers. Wildlife such as deer and mountain goats are often spotted here.
Sol Duc Valley: Located along the Sol Duc Hot Springs Road. You will be met with scenic viewpoints along this road that include views of the lush Sol Duc Valley, with its old-growth forest and the Sol Duc River.
Ruby Beach: Accessible via Highway 101 and a short walk from the parking area. This beach is known for its dramatic sea stacks and rugged coastline, Ruby Beach offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and opportunities to explore tide pools, and at low tide you can even catch a glimpse of all the marine life that inhabit the pools.
Rialto Beach: Accessible from Mora Road off Highway 101. Features views of impressive sea stacks and driftwood covered shores. It's a popular spot to enjoy the beach and the wild beauty of Olympic's coastline.
Olympic Mountains Viewpoint: Located along Highway 101 near Lake Crescent. Here you will see a distant view of the Olympic Mountains.
Marymere Falls: Olympic National Park
WHAT TO PACK
When planning a trip to any national park, it's essential to pack wisely to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Here's a list of items to consider packing. If you are interested in seeing a more comprehensive list of options check out my blog “Must Haves for Beginner Hikers”
Clothing:
Layered clothing: Depending on the season and climate of the park, pack layers that can be added or removed easily.
Waterproof jacket: Even in dry seasons, weather can change quickly in national parks. Or a Lightweight insulated jacket for colder days.
Sturdy hiking boots or shoes: Comfortable footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
Hiking socks and extra pairs: Keep your feet dry and comfortable.
Hat and gloves: For sun protection or warmth, depending on the season.
Gear and Equipment:
Daypack: A small backpack to carry essentials during hikes or explorations.
Water bottle or hydration pack: Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes.
Map and compass or GPS: Essential for navigation, especially in remote areas without cell service.
Sunscreen and lip balm: Protect against sunburn at higher elevations, this is essential even in the winter!
Sunglasses: Reduce glare and protect your eyes from UV rays.
First aid kit: Basic supplies for treating minor injuries or ailments.
Insect repellent: Especially important in areas with mosquitoes or ticks.
Whistle and flashlight: For signaling and emergencies.
Personal Items:
Identification: Carry identification and any necessary permits or park passes.
Cash: Some parks may have limited services that accept credit cards.
Cell phone and charger: Useful for emergencies, but be prepared for limited reception in remote areas.
Food and Snacks:
Trail snacks: Lightweight, energy-rich snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or energy bars.
Packed lunch: If planning a full day of hiking, pack a lunch that doesn't require refrigeration.
Pack-out trash bags: Leave no trace by carrying out all trash.
Optional Items:
Camera: Capture memorable moments and landscapes.
Binoculars: Enhance wildlife viewing or scenic overlooks.
Field guide: Identify plants, animals, or birds you encounter.
Trekking poles: Provide stability and reduce strain on knees during hikes.
Seasonal Considerations:
Winter: Pack additional layers, insulated clothing, and traction devices like micro-spikes for snow and ice.
Summer: Include extra water and sun protection gear like a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight, breathable clothing.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Leave No Trace is a set of outdoor ethics promoting responsible recreation, love and care of natural environments. The principles emphasize minimizing impact while enjoying the outdoors, encouraging practices such as packing out all trash, disposing of waste properly, respecting wildlife and their habitats, staying on designated trails, and leaving natural objects and cultural artifacts undisturbed. By following Leave No Trace principles, outdoor enthusiasts help preserve the beauty and integrity of wilderness areas for future generations to enjoy, ensuring that our activities do not harm the ecosystems we visit.
Enjoy your Visit!
If you're torn between visiting Mount Rainier or Olympic National Park, I hope this guide offers a comprehensive comparison to help you make your decision. Olympic National Park boasts a diverse landscape encompassing ocean beaches and lush rainforests, ideal for exploration. On the other hand, Mount Rainier National Park is renowned for its towering peak, abundant wildflower meadows, and alpine scenery, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Both parks offer unparalleled natural beauty and a wealth of outdoor activities, making either choice a fantastic option. Plus, why choose? You can easily include visits to both parks on a single road trip through Washington, ensuring a memorable adventure no matter which you choose to explore first. Happy Travels!