Lake Ozette, Olympic National Park in Washington

Trip Overview

Lake Ozette is a spectacular lake is part of Olympic National Park near the Pacific coast. The weather here is iffy as the Pacific NW near the ocean is known for this, but if you seek solitude or just want to isolate from the hoards of paddlers, this is the place to go. Counting a 30-minute (+ wait time) from Seattle, add on 2.5 hours to your drive time. This place is way on by the coast in the middle of nowhere, but beautiful. Even in the summer time, you'll rarely see another paddler out there. Bring you sea kayak and pack it up with food, your tent/bivy bag, sleeping gear and your camera & tripod. Bald Eagles, otters and spectacular sunsets prevail here! I rated this as easy because it's a lake, but when the wind kicks up you can get some fun whitecaps. Enjoy!

Accommodations:

None except for lake shore campsites. Bring your wilderness gear and good waterproof tent. Isn't that what kayak camping is all about anyway?

Fees:

National Park wilderness permit required.

Directions:

Hwy 101 West to Hwy 112 to Neah Bay. From there, follow the signs to Lake Ozette. There are two launch areas. One (to the left) is more remote and wild. The other is more used, but still quiet.