Vampires??

The itinerary for Day 1 and Day 2 is thoughtfully designed to cover less ground, allowing you to fully immerse in the tranquil beauty of Lake Crescent and Lake Quinault. These days beckon you to breathe deeply, embracing the serene and picturesque surroundings that seem lifted from a postcard. Here, time slows down, inviting you to linger a while longer. Relax in a lawn chair, leisurely count the clouds reflecting on the lake's glassy surface, and let your mind wander freely. This is a time for you, a moment to simply be and enjoy the gentle pace of nature's embrace.

Shortly after leaving the lodge, you’ll reach Forks, many parts of the town have been mentioned in the books of the Twilight saga, the mystery love story about Bella and Edward, her vampire boyfriend. Further along, you'll encounter the mesmerizing beauty of the Hoh Rainforest, a temperate rainforest known for its towering trees and lush greenery. The entire ride is a blend of coastal views, forested pathways, and small-town charm.

Kalaloch Lodge is a coastal gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rustic charm. Located within the Olympic National Park, this historic lodge provides guests with breathtaking views of the rugged Pacific coastline and pristine wilderness. The lodge's cozy cabins and rooms are nestled among towering trees, creating a serene and secluded atmosphere. Kalaloch Lodge is a haven for nature lovers, providing easy access to beachcombing, tidepooling, and hiking along picturesque trails. It's the perfect retreat for those seeking a tranquil escape while immersing themselves in the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest. No, this is not the hotel where you overnight but stop by at the Creekside Restaurant for a coffee or a small bite on your way to Lake Quinault.

Neah Bay, the North-westernmost point in the U.S. Nestled on the wild and untamed northwestern edge of the Olympic Peninsula, Neah Bay, Washington, is like a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered. This coastal village is not your run-of-the-mill destination; it's the real deal!

Picture this: dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and endless ocean views that will make your heart skip a beat. But wait, there's more! Neah Bay is home to the Makah Tribe, and their rich Native American heritage adds a unique flavor to this coastal paradise. It's like stepping into a living history book.

Adventure seekers will be thrilled with fantastic fishing and epic hiking trails, and for the Instagram aficionados, Cape Flattery Trail, the westernmost point in the continental U.S., offers dramatic sea cliffs and postcard-perfect vistas. Neah Bay is your ticket to a coastal escape that's not just serene; it's a whole lot of wild, untamed fun!

Road to Neah Bay

Olpympic National Park is most renowned for its incredible diversity of ecosystems and its stunning natural beauty. It's like a natural smorgasbord, offering a little bit of everything for nature lovers. Here are some of its standout features:

1. Diverse Ecosystems: The park encompasses three major ecosystems: temperate rainforests, sub-alpine forests and wildflower meadows, and the rugged Pacific coastline. This diversity makes it a unique destination, offering a wide range of natural attractions within a relatively compact area.

2. Temperate Rainforests: The park is particularly famous for its lush, temperate rainforests, like the Hoh Rain Forest. These forests are among the best examples of temperate rainforests in the world, characterized by dense vegetation, a rich diversity of plant and animal life, and significant annual rainfall.

3. Mount Olympus and the Olympic Mountains : Dominating the park, these mountains offer breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain for hikers and climbers. Mount Olympus, the highest peak, is particularly notable for its glaciers and rugged beauty.

4. Wild Pacific Coastline: The park's coastline stretches for about 73 miles along the Pacific Ocean, featuring unspoiled beaches, tide pools, sea stacks, and a unique coastal ecosystem. It's one of the few protected coastlines in the U.S. that remains wild and undeveloped.

5. Wildlife: The park is home to an array of wildlife, including species like the Roosevelt elk, black bears, mountain goats, and a variety of bird species. The diverse habitats within the park support a wide range of fauna.

6. Recreational Opportunities : Hiking, backpacking, camping, and wildlife viewing are popular activities. The park's varied landscapes offer trails for all skill levels, from leisurely forest walks to challenging mountain treks.

Olympic National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its global ecological significance. Its combination of natural beauty, ecological diversity, and recreational opportunities make it a cherished destination both nationally and internationally.

And, for a touch of magic, take a twilight stroll through the park and watch as it transforms. The twilight hours bring a hush, and if you're lucky, you might just spot the elusive Roosevelt elk or hear the distant howl of a coyote. Olympic National Park isn't just a park; it's a theatrical performance by nature, with an ever-changing cast and a never-ending supply of awe. So pack your sense of wonder (and a good pair of boots), and dive into the wild, whimsical heart of Washington!

Here's a full and detailed list of great places to eat along the way. The blue “thumbs up” dots state our top recommendation(s).

PS: since we don’t know when you’re feeling peckish, we have included an “along the way list” - pick your poison…

Congrats! You have successfully mastered Day 2 of Highway 1.