Summer 2026 Bugler Newspaper

Mount Olympus Through the Trees

J. Gussman

Olympic's Living Legacies

From spire-shaped subalpine firs in mountain meadows to massive western red cedars anchored to the rain forest floor, ancient trees have witnessed change for centuries. Take a moment to pause, listen, and wonder—what stories might these trees tell?

 

Hiking Through the Old Growth in the Hoh Rain Forest

J. Gussman

This year, as the National Park Service joins the nation in commemorating America’s 250th birthday, we celebrate the enduring legacies of life protected within Olympic National Park.

Forest giants are just one piece of the vast world of life to discover. The largest wild herd of Roosevelt elk shelters beneath the old-growth forest canopy. Thousands of miles of rivers and streams flow from glaciers, through forests, and into the ocean, providing vital habitat for salmon and trout. Olympic marmots and Flett’s violets live in the Olympic Mountains, and nowhere else on earth.

Today, you are also an important part of Olympic’s story. As we reflect on centuries past, consider how the choices we make now will continue to shape the legacy of our national parks for years to come.

How can we help these wonders thrive for the next 250 years?

 

Helpful Links

Park Passes
Safety
Wilderness Permits
Pets
Visitor Centers
Park Concessions (stores, resorts, lodges)
Services Outside the Park
Ranger Programs Calendar
Junior Ranger
Night Sky Viewing at Hurricane Ridge
Campgrounds
 

 

Trip Planner and Park Map

Check out these scenic destinations and experience the variety of Olympic National Park.
Planning your trip? Choose 1-2 locations from the same region per day for the best experience.

 

 

Stop by a visitor center for more maps and information.
Purchase detailed topographic maps for planning hikes.

 

Volunteers at a Beach Clean-Up

B. Baccus

Inspiring the Next Generation

Each year, Olympic National Park welcomes youth volunteers, from students and interns to scouts and conservation crews. These young people help maintain and protect public lands through trail work, resource monitoring, habitat restoration, and revegetation projects.

They volunteer meaningful, hands on work across the park while gaining valuable skills, leadership experience, and exposure to careers in public lands. Many are inspired to pursue professions in conservation, natural resource management, and public service.

No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted." Aesop

 

“Today’s young volunteers are helping shape the future of America’s public lands. Their commitment to service, stewardship, and community reflects the very best of the National Park Service mission.”

Heather Stephens, Olympic National Park Volunteer and Youth Coordinator

Youth volunteer opportunities are part of a broader National Park Service network supporting the next generation of stewards. To learn more, visit nps.gov/olym/getinvolved/volunteer.htm or volunteer.gov

 

Go exploring as a Junior Ranger!

G. Marsh

Discover Olympic Like a Junior Ranger!

Endless opportunities await kids and families to adventure, explore, and learn. Pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at the nearest park visitor center to start your journey. You can complete the booklet anywhere in the park. See below for some of our favorite spots!

 

Tree stumps are full of life!

Spruce Railroad Trail

At the end of East Beach Road, the paved Spruce Railroad Trail winds along the sparkling shores of Lake Crescent. Can you guess how deep the lake is? It was carved by a massive glacier ages ago. Follow the trail for a mile to cross a bridge over a brilliant blue pool. Keep a lookout for rare fish found only here: the Beardslee trout and Crescenti Cutthroat trout.

Ancient Groves Nature Trail

The Ancient Groves Nature Trail is a short, peaceful 0.5-mile loop located in the Sol Duc Valley. It is a perfect place to play nature bingo, look for a banana slug, or count how many different types of ferns you can find. Listen for the sounds of birds as you walk. You might even hear the tapping of a woodpecker looking for its next meal inside the trees.

Maple Glade Trail

Have you ever seen a lichen? Look for crusty, colorful patches on trees and rocks. Lichens are not plants but a combination of fungi and algae living together in harmony! The 0.5-mile Maple Glade loop in the Quinault Rain Forest is a great place to discover these unique life forms amongst giant trees. Lichens are a sign of clean air— take a deep breath and enjoy.