Mia on the Map

Driving around the Olympic Peninsula with my best friend felt like being a little kid again. One minute we were winding through the misty Hoh Rainforest, straight out of a fairytale; the next, we were chasing sunbeams at Rialto Beach. The scenery was utterly breathtaking!

Along the Coast

My favorite kind of beach has always been where the forest meets the ocean. We explored three beaches during our trip: Rialto Beach, Ruby Beach, and La Push – First Beach.

Our goal for Rialto Beach was to see the Hole in the Wall before sundown. The warm lighting from the sun beginning to set made the walk over to Hole in the Wall mesmerizing. We encountered one roadblock on our walk – a forest creek speeding down to the meet the Pacific. After some minor (very minor) climbing, we made it around the creek and continued on. The key with Hole in the Wall is to go at low tide. You can use this website to track the tide to make sure you go at the right time. Alright, enough talk. Now, it’s time for the photos.

We made a quick stop at Ruby Beach – my favorite of the trip. Although, how could one choose? Ruby Beach is known for its towering sea stacks and driftwood-lined shore. Here are some shots!

Finally, we explored La Push, specifically First Beach. The clouds rolled in, giving everything that soft, twilight feel – moody, cinematic, and perfect. Do not ask us how many times we said “It’s La Push baby.” We ate dinner at River’s Edge – highly recommend for the views and the fried pickles.

Up the Mountain

We kicked off our first morning with a walk along Hurricane Ridge. At first, we thought the weather might ruin the view, but once we drove up out of the fog bank, the sky turned impossibly blue and the air felt sharp and fresh. The real highlight, though, was the wildlife. We watched a group of deer frolic in the meadow, and two of them even squared up for an antler showdown. Once again…the pictures!

Between the Lakes

The lakes along the drive from Port Angeles to Forks were impossible to ignore. I wish we got to explore more here! This drive was definitely a “stop-and-stare” kind of route.

Into the Rainforest

Saving the best for last! The only problem was…everything felt like the best. The Hoh Rainforest was enchanting. We drove in through thick fog with the road completely to ourselves. I have never seen moss so lush and endless, draping from every branch and blanketing every surface in a deep, beautiful green. When the sun finally broke through the trees, the golden beams filtered through the moss like a scene straight out of a fairytale!

Thank you, Olympic!

And just like that, another state checked off the list. I would love to go back and soak in even more of everything the Olympic Peninsula has to offer. What made this trip truly special, though, was the company – cheers to 13 years of friendship and countless years ahead!