Olympic · March
Olympic in March
March is a good time to visit Olympic — busier than February, quieter than April.
Expect moderate crowds (4/10), highs near 51°F, about 11.9 hours of daylight, and 1 seasonal closure in effect.
Crowd score
How busy it gets
A comfortable middle ground: some company on popular trails, but no gridlock.
About 30% of this park's busiest month.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Data: NPS visitation 2023–2025 · crowd scores computed Oct 2026 · alerts checked Oct 17, 2026. How this is calculated →
Computed from federal data · Methodology by Sharon Ben-Moshe
Visitation
Typical March visits vs. the year
March draws about 5% of Olympic’s yearly visitors.
Typical monthly recreation visits, averaged over the most recent three full years.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Weather
March weather
- Avg high
- 51°F
- Avg low
- 36°F
- Precipitation
- 3.8"
- Sunrise
- 6:26 AM
- Sunset
- 6:20 PM
- Daylight
- 11.9h
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, Port Angeles
What's open
Olympic in March: access
Open 24 hours; Hurricane Ridge Road access varies in winter
Seasonal closures may apply:
- Park Closure
Highway 101 Overnight Closures at Hoh River Bridge, October 13-19
These overnight Highway 101 closures cuts off the only direct route between some of the most popular areas of the park. There are no detours available. Taking alternate routes around the east side of the Olympic Peninsula will add at least four hours to travel times.
Details on nps.gov →
Source: NPS Data API
Conditions
Current alerts
- Caution
Staircase Developed Area is Open, Use Caution in Burned Areas
The Staircase developed area is open. The surrounding wilderness areas will remain closed as repair and recovery efforts continue. Use extreme caution when entering burned areas. Burned landscapes may contain falling trees and branches, loose boulders, unstable ground, stump holes, landslides, and debris flows. Changing conditions such as wind, rain, or storms can rapidly trigger hazards. Learn more on our Fire Conditions and Updates page.
Details on nps.gov → - Danger
Bat Tests Positive for Rabies, Visitors Urged to Report Potential Contact
A rabid bat was found at Olympic National Park near Staircase Bridge on August 9th. At approximately 2 p.m., the bat swooped down onto an unidentified woman and was temporarily caught in her hair. This individual is at risk for rabies and should seek healthcare immediately, as well as contact the Mason County Health Department at 360-427-9670, ext. 405. More at the link.
Details on nps.gov →
Source: NPS Data API
Context
Olympic crowds across the year
Alternatives
Quieter nearby in March
FAQ
Olympic in March
How busy is Olympic in March?
March rates 4/10 for crowds (Moderate) at Olympic National Park — about 30% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 169,200.
What is the weather like at Olympic in March?
In March, Olympic averages a high of 51°F and a low of 36°F, with about 3.8 inches of precipitation.
How much does it cost to visit Olympic?
Entrance to Olympic costs $30 ($30 per private vehicle, valid 7 days).
When is Olympic least crowded?
Olympic is quietest in January and December. If your dates are flexible, those months bring the thinnest crowds of the year.
How many hours of daylight does Olympic get in March?
In mid-March, Olympic gets about 11.9 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 6:26 AM and sunset around 6:20 PM.