A 130-mile trail runs through Sequim: On this section, the Olympic Discovery Trail crosses a 780-foot trestle over the Dungeness River. The trail is suitable for biking, hiking, and running. Check current trail notices before setting out.
Scenery and Trails
Sequim’s location in the rain shadow of the surrounding mountains comes with an average annual rainfall of 16 inches. You can pair this regional feature with trips along the trail and to the river landscapes.
From Sequim, the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge is three miles west via Highway 101; the main trail begins at the visitor kiosk plaza. In the wider area, an easy, half-mile forest trail leads to a viewpoint on the bluff. From there, the five-mile trail continues to the lighthouse. Check the refuge’s current notices before visiting, as trail conditions and closures can change.
Parks, Gardens, and Water
Carrie Blake Park is Sequim’s largest city park and includes a section of the Olympic Discovery Trail for hiking and biking. The Sequim Botanical Garden’s Terrace Garden is also in the park. The garden invites visitors to explore the Terrace Garden, offers information about sustainable gardening practices, and demonstrates the use of reclaimed water. Visits and volunteer activities depend on garden operations.
Pioneer Park is home to an arboretum with a large collection of Garry oaks. Bell Creek is accessible in Gebhardt Zwicker Trail Park. Nearby Railroad Bridge Park offers access to the riverbank and birdwatching opportunities along the Dungeness River. The Dungeness River Nature Center in the wider Sequim area features exhibits about native birds and wildlife, as well as environmental programs for adults and children; exhibits and program dates vary.
For an outing involving the water, there’s a specific place to go: John Wayne Marina is one of two Port of Port Angeles locations with a boat launch. Check its operating status before you go, as it can change.
Culture and History
Sequim offers several distinct glimpses into local history. Pioneer Memorial Park has some of the cemetery’s original gravestones, a handcrafted pioneer cabin, and a memorial waterfall. The park is also home to a totem pole carved by elders of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe.
Sequim Museum & Arts devotes exhibits to the Manis Mastodon and the Jamestown S’Klallam longhouse. Check which exhibits are currently on view before visiting. The museum is also a major venue for the monthly First Friday Art Walks, held throughout the year; confirm the dates for your visit.
The Sequim Irrigation Festival is the longest continuously running festival in Washington State. It takes place alongside Sequim Lavender Weekend, held every year on the third weekend in July. Check the dates for the year of your trip if you want to plan your visit around either festival.
Lavender, Market, and Seasonal Dates
During the peak growing months of July and August, lavender farms in the Sequim area host festivals, educational workshops, and demonstrations. There are also craft activities, live entertainment, and activities for children. Participating farms and available activities vary.
At Lavender Connection, you can see more than 60 varieties of lavender during bloom season, typically in July and August; most can be cut yourself. At the copper still, learn about essential oil extraction and sample more than 20 varieties of lavender essential oil. Live distillation depends on seasonal operations.
The Sequim Farmers & Artisans Market features more than 65 local vendors, though the number can vary by season. Vendors offer locally grown food and locally made products. The market runs on Saturdays from May through October; check the current dates before visiting.
When looking for a hotel in Sequim, the seasonal windows can help you choose your travel dates: lavender activities are concentrated in July and August, and the market runs on Saturdays from May through October. Confirm the dates for your preferred activity before booking.
Discover more destinations: Carlsborg, Forks, Port Angeles.
For the regional travel overview: Clallam County.
