Olympic Peninsula

The Olympic Peninsula is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Only a short ferry ride and drive away from Seattle, the 922,651-acre Olympic National Park is the epitome of natural diversity. Over 3 million people visit this vast park annually to take in the forests, rain forests, glaciers, hot springs, and mountains. Over 600 miles of trails and 17 campgrounds are available for visitors.

The park has 11 of the largest trees in the world including a 298 foot tall Douglas Fir. It also has its fair share of animals - deer, black bears, cats, rodents, birds, elk, and the endangered spotted owls. You never know what you'll see when visiting this park.

But, there is much more to the Olympic Peninsula than the Olympic National Park. Small cities scattered around the peninsula allow visitors to see the area.

Port Townsend

Located on the Northeast tip of the peninsula, Port Townsend's Victorian flavor is a favorite of many tourists. The city's streets showcase large Victorian-style homes and pristine yards. One of the oldest cities in Washington state, the Victorian architecture - complete with turrets and gothic trim - is a must see for any visitor. Take a walk around this small city or go back in time by riding in horse and carriage and imagine what the city was like so many years ago.

Though Port Townsend's population is only 8,000, its art scene is very active. The city's residents declare it among the best in small communities. With views of the Puget Sound and beach as far as the eye can see, Port Townsend has more than small city charm.

Poulsbo

Poulsbo prides itself on its Scandinavian heritage. The downtown, referred to as "Little Norway" offers visitors a look at Scandinavia complete with Norwegian flags and knick-knacks. The city's annual Viking Fest draws the community of 7,000 and many visitors to waterfront where the festival is held. This city is a perfect daytrip from Seattle.

Port Ludlow

One of Port Ludlow's unique characteristics is its location in a rain shadow. The city receives only about 27 inches of rain per year much less than neighboring Seattle, making it a desirable travel destination. Outdoor activities are plentiful and the large resort in the city offers luxurious accommodations and a refuge for those who prefer indoor activities. Only a 90 minute drive from Seattle and 30 minutes from Port Townsend, Port Ludlow is a sanctuary from the rain.

Olympia

As capital of the state, Olympia is home to a magnificent (and famous) dome, marble buildings, monuments, and beautifully maintained grounds. One of the best experiences in the 35-acre State Capitol Campus is riding or climbing to the top of dome. (Note: Due to the Nisqually Earthquake in 2001, the dome is closed for retrofitting until 2005.) Tours of the campus are also available and offer a closer look at the capitol. The duration of the tour is approximately 45 minutes.

Despite the splendor of being the capital, residents would argue that Olympia is much more than a city focused on government. Located at the bottom of the peninsula where the grand Olympic Mountain Range, Mount Rainier and the waters of the Puget Sound beckon, Olympia's proud to display its beauty. Four public parks offer a retreat from the bustling government scene and the farmers market, the second largest in the state, draws people from nearby communities as well as visitors. Historical, art, and children's museums are also an option for visitors of the city. Like many other small Puget Sound cities, Olympia celebrates its love of art with the biannual Arts Walk. Held in April and October, the Arts Walk invites everyone to enjoy the diversity and splendor of art.

Photograph taken by MSTP student Mike Schmitt.