While we took today easier, today was a nice, albeit, slight return to our routine. And we were able to see much of Olympic National Park.

We had hoped to wake up and see the Olympic range at daybreak, but sleep was too nice. I didn’t sleep all that well, tossing and turning, trying to find a position in which my aches would cease – they don’t. But, the views were still spectacular when we got up. We packed camp and did a short, 1/2 mile hike around Blue Mountain and got a great view of Canada, Mt. Baker, Mt. Deception, and the park in general.

We went to the visitor station to get the stamp and to find out more about the park. While we waited to talk to the rangers, we were able to examine a bear can – they’re not heavy, but wouldn’t be able to fit our cookware. The ranger suggested a couple of 1.5 mile hikes to see some falls, and to stop in at Hoh Rainforest.

We set off towards the first falls, Maryville, near Lake Crescent. The hike was pleasant and easy. The falls themselves were also nice. Lara was able to stick her feet in the river and the gorgeous, almost surreal blue, Lake Crescent.

We continued on US101 to other parts of the park and went to Sol Duc. We got stuck in construction, but stopped at Salmon Cascade as there were reports of salmon jumping due to breeding season. We didn’t get to witness that, but saw a school of Coho gathering strength to head up.

We eventually got to the Sol Duc trailhead, and went up the trail for another hike. This hike was also pleasand and the falls it leads to are a nice sight. We turned around and dealt with the construction again.

We left Sol Duc and headed towards Hoh Rainforest. We stopped for some supplies along the way (and coffee). We arrived just as a rain storm rolled in. First glance is that it is impressive, we should be able to see more tomorrow. Lara and I both had hard times figuring out what it’s similar to. The trees and foliage are indeed thick. We set up camp at the Hoh campground and will do a hike tomorrow.

Today was good – gentle hikes were needed and the park is much better for the weary spirit than Rainier was. We did realize that this park would be much better as a back country visit – 90% is wilderness, and it’s mostly back country trails, campsites, and it seems there’s more back country sites here than at Glacier. We’ll have to return.

Tomorrow will b some more gentle hikes and driving down 101 towards Corvallis – we may make it most of the way.

STATS: 13 days, 7 national parks, 9 hikes, 48.5 miles