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Olympic National ParkBackpackers near waterfall
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Olympic National Park
Nature & Science
 
three images of Olympic -- mountain, forest with creek, and coast
Olympic's diverse ecosystems are home to a stunning variety of plants and animals.
 

From tiny unique flowers on icy peaks to sea stars patrolling foaming tide pools, myriad species find refuge in the sanctuary of Olympic National Park. Geology, climate, isolation, history and sheer size mean this nearly one million-acre park protects relatively intact ecosystems, making it a priceless living laboratory and a home for plants and animals large and small.

To see a list of Olympic National Park endemic plants and animals click here.
closeup of cow elk face  

Did You Know?
Olympic National Park protects the largest unmanaged herd of Roosevelt elk in the world. Olympic was almost named "Elk National Park" and was established in part to protect these stately animals.

Last Updated: August 20, 2007 at 15:48 EST