Olympic National Park, Washington

Created in 1938, Olympic National Park covers a massive one million acres and is slightly bigger than the state of Rhode Island. It was named after the tallest peak in western Washington, Mt. Olympus standing at 7,980 feet. Although not as high as other mountains, it has the reputation for being the hardest major peak to climb in the 48 contiguous states. The park boasts a diverse set of ecosystems, ranging from thick, old-growth rain forests punctuated with steep snow slopes and glaciers, to the salty waves crashing ashore along the mighty Pacific Ocean. It’s location on the western slopes of the Olympic Mountains can generate upwards 140 – 179 inches of rain each year in some locations. That’s over 12 feet of water! No wonder the lush surroundings beckon to hikers and outdoor enthusiasts of every kind.