The Benefits of Forest Bathing in the Olympic National Forest

In our always-on world, slowing down can feel impossible. We spend our days bouncing between screens, schedules, and stress. But just a short drive from Port Angeles and Sequim, a different rhythm waits. One where quiet is normal, trees are your company, and time slows to a peaceful crawl.

Welcome to forest bathing—a simple but powerful way to reconnect with nature and yourself. And there’s no better place to try it than the Olympic National Forest.

What Is Forest Bathing, Anyway?

Let’s clear something up first: forest bathing doesn’t involve a swimsuit or a tub.

The term comes from Japan, where it's called Shinrin-yoku, which means “taking in the forest atmosphere.” It’s the act of being fully present in a forest environment, letting the sights, sounds, and smells of the woods wash over you.

Unlike hiking or trail running, forest bathing is not about reaching a destination. There's no pace to keep. No miles to track. Instead, you walk slowly. You pause often. You breathe deeply. You notice.

And yes—it really works.

Why It's Good for You

Forest bathing has been studied for decades. And the results are hard to ignore.

Here’s what it can do for you:

Lower stress levels
Reduce blood pressure and heart rate
Boost your immune system
Improve mood and focus
Ease anxiety and depression

When you immerse yourself in a forest setting, your body responds. Natural compounds from trees, called phytoncides, can reduce stress hormones. Fresh air, filtered through old-growth trees, can calm your nervous system. Even just twenty minutes in the forest can lower cortisol—the stress hormone.

Simply put, forest bathing is nature’s version of a reset button.

Best Spots for Forest Bathing in the Olympic National Forest

The Olympic National Forest is massive. Over 600,000 acres of mountains, old-growth trees, rivers, and moss-covered trails. That’s a lot of nature to soak in. But a few areas stand out for their peace, beauty, and accessibility.

1. Lake Crescent and the Moments in Time Trail

Just west of Port Angeles, Lake Crescent is surrounded by towering trees and misty peaks. The Moments in Time Trail is a short loop, perfect for forest bathing. It winds through bigleaf maple and Douglas fir, with glimpses of the lake sparkling through the branches.

2. Mt. Walker Viewpoint Trail

This one’s a bit steeper, but you don’t have to go far. Walk just a little ways up to find quiet pull-offs where you can sit among the ferns. The filtered light here is magical. And the elevation gives you fresh, cool air even in summer.

3. Hoh Rain Forest (if you’re up for a drive)

Yes, it’s technically part of the Olympic National Park, but it borders the forest and is worth the mention. Giant moss-draped trees. Dripping quiet. Ferns as tall as your shoulders. This is forest bathing on an epic scale.

4. Dungeness River Nature Center & Trail

Closer to Sequim, this peaceful area offers easy forest access along the river. The trail is flat and lined with trees. The sound of the river? Instant calm.

How to Forest Bathe: A Simple Guide

You don’t need gear. You don’t need experience. You just need to slow down.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Leave the phone in the car

If you must bring it, turn it to airplane mode. You’ll be fine.

2. Walk slowly

Slower than feels normal. Let yourself wander. This isn’t about getting somewhere.

3. Engage all five senses

What do you hear? A woodpecker? Water dripping from a fern?
What do you see? Tiny mushrooms on a log? Light dancing on the leaves?
What do you smell? Earth? Pine? Rain?
Touch the bark. Feel the breeze. Sip it all in.

4. Sit down

Find a log, rock, or soft mossy spot. Just be. Let the forest come to you.

5. Take your time

Stay as long as you like. Even 20–30 minutes can have big effects.

You may be surprised how different the world feels when you stop trying to move through it so quickly.

Come Back to Oly to Recharge

After a day of walking slowly, breathing deeply, and letting your mind unwind, there’s nothing better than coming home to your own peaceful space.

At Oly Lodging, our rentals are designed to help you keep that calm. Cozy blankets. Clean, modern spaces. Fully stocked kitchens. And the peace of your own private retreat.

We’re close to all the best forest bathing spots in Port Angeles and Sequim. Whether you’re a solo traveler needing to unplug, a couple looking for quiet, or a family teaching your kids to slow down—we’ve got a place for you.