Temperate Rainforest

Dates Visited: September 1 - September 7
Location: Olympic National Park, Washington, USA
Climate Diagram:                                                                          Packing List:

                       ~ Umbrella
                       ~ Raincoat
                       ~ Rain boots
                       ~ Jeans
                       ~ Long sleeve t-shirts







       Upon my arrival in Olympic National Park, I knew that my raincoat was going to come in handy.  Of the ten days I visited Washington, it rained five of them. Other than the precipitation, my visit to Olympic National Park was quite remarkable. I went for a nice hike in the woods, and saw what could easily have been the largest trees I have ever seen in my time on this earth. I'm talking huge. One of the coastal redwoods that I saw was easily as tall as a twenty story building. It was remarkable. Because most of the trees had needles, the ground was covered in them. And due to the waxy coating on pine needles it takes them a long time to decompose, so the forest floor had what appeared to be a blanket of needles for myself and others to walk upon.

       Along with tall trees, many different types of ferns and mosses were scattered all across the ground. Wildlife was very interesting as well. I saw different types of elk, but I was very careful not to go near them, and I also got to see a mountain goat. The goat I spotted from far away, which I was thankful for because I did not want to get into a fight with a mountain goat. Along the waters I was able to see other types of animals including many varieties of fish and even otters. Otters are just so darn cute I was glad I was able to spot some. While very moist, overall my visit to the Temperate Rainforest of Olympic National Park was very enjoyable.