Map of Olympic Peninsula

Description: This map shows cities, towns, counties, railroads, interstate highways, U.S. highways, state highways, main roads, secondary roads, rivers, lakes, peaks, national parks, state parks, indian reservations, airports, and points of interest in Olympic Peninsula.

The Olympic Peninsula is a large peninsula in western Washington State, bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north, and Hood Canal to the east. The peninsula encompasses Clallam, Jefferson, and parts of Grays Harbor and Mason counties, covering approximately 3,600 square miles. It is dominated by the Olympic Mountains and includes Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Geography

The Olympic Mountains form the peninsula's core, with Mount Olympus reaching 7,980 feet as the highest peak. These mountains create distinct ecological zones and weather patterns. The western slopes receive exceptional precipitation, with some areas receiving over 200 inches annually, making them among the wettest locations in the contiguous United States. This precipitation sustains temperate rainforests, a rare ecosystem. Conversely, the northeastern peninsula lies in a rain shadow, receiving as little as 15-20 inches of precipitation annually.

The peninsula's coastline extends for approximately 73 miles along the Pacific Ocean, featuring rocky headlands, sea stacks, tide pools, and sandy beaches. Rivers including the Hoh, Queets, Quinault, and Elwha drain the mountains, creating valleys and supporting diverse ecosystems.

Olympic National Park

Established in 1938, Olympic National Park protects nearly one million acres of wilderness, encompassing mountains, forests, and coastline. The park preserves several distinct ecosystems: temperate rainforests in river valleys, subalpine and alpine environments in the mountains, and wild Pacific coastline. It provides habitat for numerous species including Roosevelt elk, black bears, and various fish species. The park receives approximately three million visitors annually and offers extensive hiking trails, camping facilities, and scenic drives.

Communities and Population

Port Angeles, the largest city on the peninsula, serves as the county seat of Clallam County and the primary commercial center. It functions as a gateway to Olympic National Park and operates ferry service to Victoria, British Columbia. Sequim, located in the rain shadow, has grown as a retirement destination due to its mild, dry climate. Port Townsend, a historic Victorian seaport, is known for its preserved architecture, maritime heritage, and arts community. Other communities include Forks, known for timber industry history, Aberdeen and Hoquiam in Grays Harbor County, and numerous smaller towns.

The peninsula's population is dispersed, with most people living in coastal communities. Total population across the peninsula is approximately 300,000, though density is low compared to Puget Sound urban areas.

Economy

Historically, the peninsula's economy centered on natural resource extraction, particularly timber harvesting and commercial fishing. Both industries have declined significantly since the late 20th century due to environmental regulations, resource depletion, and market changes. Tourism has grown in importance, driven by Olympic National Park, outdoor recreation opportunities, and scenic beauty. Visitors engage in hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Current economic activities include healthcare, government services, retail, and small-scale manufacturing. Some timber industry operations continue. Oyster farming and seafood processing remain economically significant in Hood Canal and coastal areas. Port Townsend has developed a creative economy with artists, writers, and craftspeople. Military presence includes Naval Magazine Indian Island near Port Hadlock.

Transportation

U.S. Route 101 encircles the peninsula, providing the main road access. This highway connects communities and provides access to Olympic National Park. Ferry service operates between Port Angeles and Victoria, British Columbia. The peninsula is relatively isolated from major population centers, contributing to its rural character. William R. Fairchild International Airport in Port Angeles offers limited commercial service.

Environment and Conservation

Beyond Olympic National Park, conservation areas include Olympic National Forest, state parks, wildlife refuges, and protected watersheds. Environmental issues include salmon habitat restoration, forest management, and balancing economic needs with conservation. Dam removal on the Elwha River, completed in 2014, represented one of the largest dam removal projects in U.S. history and aims to restore salmon runs. The peninsula's ecological significance extends globally, with its temperate rainforests representing a rare and valuable ecosystem.

Regions of Washington State