We recently went on a week-long trip to Olympic National Park, Lewis & Clark national Park, and Rainier National Park in our quest to see more of America's national beauty and history. Nestled in the stunning Olympic National Park of Washington state are two rivers that are not only visually captivating but also offer a unique sensory experience – the Hoh River and the Sol Duc River. These two waterways are famous for their diverse flora and fauna, picturesque scenery, and distinctive scents.
Let's start with the Hoh River, located in the Hoh Rainforest area of the national park. The Hoh Rainforest is one of the few temperate rainforests in the world and is home to an array of flora and fauna. Walking along the Hoh River trail, you are enveloped in a misty environment that produces a distinct earthy, musty scent. The scent comes from the decaying leaves and trees that enrich the soil and provide nutrients for the lush vegetation that surrounds the trail. The smell is so unique and distinct that it is instantly recognizable, and many people describe it as a mix of fresh rain, pine needles, and moss.
As you continue on the trail, the scent evolves and changes, becoming more intense as you reach the river. The Hoh River has a distinct mineral smell that is caused by the minerals and sediments in the water. The scent is almost metallic and is unlike any other river scent that you may have experienced. It's not a bad smell; it's just different, and it is a testament to the unique geology of the area.
Moving on to the Sol Duc River, which is another must-visit location in the Olympic National Park. Unlike the Hoh River, the Sol Duc River is not surrounded by a rainforest, but rather by a dense forest of fir and cedar trees. The scent in this area is a mix of pine and cedar, which gives off a refreshing and invigorating aroma that is sure to awaken your senses.
As you approach the river, the scent becomes more intense, and you can smell the freshness of the water. The Sol Duc River is known for its crystal clear water, which is a result of the minerals and sediments that are filtered out as the water flows through the dense forest. The scent of the river is a mix of freshness and cleanliness, and it's almost impossible not to take a deep breath and feel invigorated. We stayed at the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort which has a hot mineral springs you can take a dip in for another unique experience.
In conclusion, the Hoh River and the Sol Duc River in Olympic National Park are two unique locations that offer visitors a sensory experience that is unlike any other. From the earthy, musty scent of the Hoh River to the refreshing scent of pine and cedar along the Sol Duc River, these two rivers offer a unique blend of scents that are sure to awaken your senses and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So if you're planning a trip to Olympic National Park, be sure to add the Hoh River and the Sol Duc River to your itinerary and experience the magic of these two remarkable locations.
You can enjoy the scents of Olympic National Park in our Olympic candle, part of our National Park candle collection which includes other parks like our Acadia candle.
