Mount Olympus Trip Report via Hoh River Valley
Date: [Insert Date]
Duration: 5 days, 4 nights
Distance: Approximately 44 miles round-trip (including summit bid)
Day 1: Hoh River Trailhead to Five Mile Island – 5 miles
Our journey commenced at the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center. We embarked on the Hoh River Trail, immediately plunging into a lush temperate rainforest. Giant Sitka spruces, moss-laden trees, and the melodic sounds of the Hoh River accompanied us. The trail was relatively flat, allowing us to soak in the surroundings. We camped at Five Mile Island, a picturesque spot by the river.
Highlights:
- Vibrant rainforest ecosystem
- First glimpses of the Hoh River
Day 2: Five Mile Island to Olympus Guard Station – 8.1 miles
Continuing along the Hoh River, the trail slowly gained elevation. We passed through magnificent old-growth forests and meadows dotted with wildflowers. The peaks of the Olympics, including glimpses of Mount Olympus, became more pronounced. We set up camp at Olympus Guard Station, adjacent to a lovely meadow.
Highlights:
- Expansive meadows
- First clear views of Mount Olympus
Day 3: Olympus Guard Station to Glacier Meadows – 9.1 miles
This was a day of significant elevation gain. The forest gradually gave way to subalpine landscapes. We crossed several bridges, with the most dramatic being the High Hoh Bridge, suspended high above a deep gorge. Eventually, we reached Glacier Meadows, our base for the Mount Olympus summit bid. Here, we prepared our gear and rested for the big day ahead.
Highlights:
- High Hoh Bridge experience
- Transition from rainforest to alpine environment
- Glacier Meadows vistas
Day 4: Summit Mount Olympus & Return to Glacier Meadows – Approx. 8 miles
We began early, navigating the lateral moraine and then onto Blue Glacier. Roped up for glacier travel, we made our way across this vast icy expanse, navigating crevasses and seracs. Once on the Snow Dome, the route steepened, and we ascended towards the summit block of Mount Olympus.
The final push involved a technical rock climb to reach the true summit: West Peak. Standing atop Mount Olympus, we were rewarded with panoramic views of the Olympics, the Pacific Ocean, and distant Cascade peaks.
After descending, we returned to Glacier Meadows for a well-deserved rest.
Highlights:
- Blue Glacier traverse
- Technical summit climb
- Panoramic views from West Peak
Day 5: Glacier Meadows to Hoh River Trailhead – 17.2 miles
With the thrill of the summit still fresh, we made our way back down the Hoh River Valley. We retraced our steps, taking in the beauty of the forest and meadows once more. The descent felt quicker, and by evening, we were back at the trailhead, concluding our epic adventure.
Weather Patterns:
The Olympics have unpredictable weather due to their proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Summers (July to September) offer the best conditions for summiting Mount Olympus, but rain can still occur. High mountain areas can experience sudden changes in weather, so be prepared for all conditions.
Final Thoughts: Climbing Mount Olympus via the Hoh River Valley is an adventure of contrasts: from rainforests to glaciers, from river valleys to mountain summits. The climb is challenging and requires mountaineering skills and equipment. But the rewards—stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and the accomplishment of summiting the Olympic Peninsula’s highest peak—are truly unparalleled. If you’re prepared and experienced, this journey is a must-do in the Pacific Northwest.