Full spring. The peninsula brightens. Pre-peak access.
May is the last month before summer crowds arrive. All major facilities are open, the gray whale migration tails off, spring wildflowers are at lower and mid-elevations, and the weather is genuinely pleasant. Hurricane Ridge is accessible but the highest trails may still have snow. The best value month before peak season.
Conditions
Weather: 61°F high / 43°F low. Improving. Spring conditions. Some high snow remaining.
Crowds: moderate
What's open
- All park areas open
- Hurricane Ridge accessible
- All lodge properties open
Limited or closed
- High backcountry trails (High Divide) may still have significant snow
- Backcountry permits required for overnight trips
Prioritize
Hurricane Ridge before peak crowds. Sol Duc valley — hot springs, old-growth, and the falls at high water. Second Beach at La Push for the sea stacks with spring light.
Wellness
Sol Duc Hot Springs in spring conditions. Morning kayaking at Lake Crescent before afternoon winds. The Hoh forest in May before the summer surge.
Dining
Full peninsula dining open. Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort dining in the valley. Port Angeles for variety.
Where to stay
All properties open. Book Sol Duc and Kalaloch ahead for Memorial Day weekend.
What to pack
Layers. Waterproof jacket. Sunscreen for the first genuinely sunny days.