Vancouver Island, the Olympic Peninsula, and more... Part 5 - the final installment

When we left The Tudor Inn that morning, it was overcast and somewhat drizzly. We knew that Hurricane Ridge would offer the best view of the lofty peaks of the Olympic Mountains, but it looked doubtful that we would be able to see anything that day due to the heavy layer of clouds. But, ever the optimists, we nonetheless began our 17-mile ascent to Hurricane Ridge. A few miles before the lodge, we broke out of the clouds, and found the view to be absolutely spectacular. High peaks from left to right, and the clouds we had just driven through were lying in the valley below. AWESOME!

This deer was walking through the parking lot as we drove through. Not a bit afraid of the tourists.

We drove around to the west of the Olympic Peninsula, past Lake Crescent, and on to the Hoh Rain Forest, where we took a hike in the forest.

This split-log bridge was plenty sturdy enough.

The moss just hangs from the trees in the rain forest. Kind of eerie.

This adirondack chair was fashioned from skis. Very cool.

The fireplace at the lodge at Lake Crescent.

I want one of these madrone trees in our yard!

More hanging moss in the rain forest.

You've heard of the Hard Rock Cafe. Well, what about the Hard RAIN Cafe? It's right there in the rain forest!

The road on the west side of the Olympic National Forest goes right along the Pacific Ocean. Very lovely and wild.

Of course we had to stop and see the world's largest spruce tree.

This is Lake Quinalt Lodge, where we spent the last night. Staying in lodges at national parks is one of our favorite things to do. We love them!

On one of our hikes, we spied this little sluggard bravely making his way across the path. And below is a short video clip from Hurricane Ridge. The next morning we headed back home. A very wonderful trip! This coming Saturday we are heading to Colorado to see family there, and then on to California.