Glines Canyon Overlook - Image 1
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Glines Canyon Overlook

4.9
·8 reviews·Port Angeles, United States

Witness the powerful Elwha River's resurgence at Glines Canyon Overlook, a testament to ecological restoration in Olympic National Park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Glines Canyon Overlook - Image 1

Glines Canyon Overlook

Best Time

Fall mornings

Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the powerful Elwha River's resurgence at Glines Canyon Overlook, a testament to ecological restoration in Olympic National Park.

4.9
(8 reviews)

"It is interesting to learn the history of the dams and subsequent removal. It takes some effort to get there but is worth it."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Bathroom Status

Restrooms at the overlook can be locked. Plan accordingly or use facilities elsewhere in the park. :toilet:

Embrace the History

Take time to read the storyboards and use the audio players to understand the dam removal. :sound:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Glines Canyon Overlook

Glines Canyon Overlook

Olympic National Park

Witness the dramatic landscape shaped by the Elwha River's dam removal. A truly unique ecological restoration site.

Elwha River Restoration

Elwha River Restoration

Glines Canyon Overlook

See firsthand the powerful impact of dam removal and the river's return to its natural flow.

Interpretive Signage & Audio

Interpretive Signage & Audio

Glines Canyon Overlook

Engage with the history and science of the Elwha River's restoration through informative displays.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

The Glines Canyon Overlook offers stunning vistas, especially during fall when the foliage is vibrant. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. Check weather conditions beforehand, as fog can obscure the views.

Understanding the Dam's History

This overlook provides a unique perspective on the Elwha River's transformation following the removal of the Glines Canyon Dam. Learn about this significant ecological restoration project through interpretive signs and audio players at the site.

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
More peaceful experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

My favorite view in Washington so far! #washingtonstate #portangeleswa #lakecrescent #blackgirltiktok #fyp #nature
@latojanae_
5.8K likes • 86.4K views

Check Bathroom Status

Restrooms at the overlook can be locked. Plan accordingly or use facilities elsewhere in the park. :toilet:

Embrace the History

Take time to read the storyboards and use the audio players to understand the dam removal. :sound:

Glines Canyon Dam, also known as Upper Elwha Dam, was the largest dam removal ever. Take the hike to the overlook to see how Elwha River now freely flows! #elwhariver #damremoval #olympicpeninsula #washingtonstate #pacificnorthwest #olympicforager #olympicnationalpark
olympicforager
271 likes • 4.5K views
Olympic National Park Day 2 💙 • Hike: Madison Creek to Glines Canyon Spillway Overlook Trail • • • #olympicnationalpark #olympicnp #olympicnationalforest #olympicpeninsula #lakecrescent #madisoncreek #portangeles #portangeleswa #washingtonstate #pnw #hike #hiking #hikingadventures #hikersofinstagram #hiker #travel #travelblogger #travelgram #traveling #travelgram #traveler #travelersnotebook #tr...
missamberrose_
222 likes • 5.1K views

Enjoy the Scenic Drive

The drive to the overlook is part of the experience, offering beautiful views of the Olympic Peninsula. :car:

Consider the Bypass Trail

A challenging bypass trail exists to navigate around the river. Check with rangers for current conditions. :hiking_boot:

Glines Canyon overlook. Elwha River. ONP.
larryward
23 likes • 110 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Bathroom Status

Restrooms at the overlook can be locked. Plan accordingly or use facilities elsewhere in the park. :toilet:

Embrace the History

Take time to read the storyboards and use the audio players to understand the dam removal. :sound:

Enjoy the Scenic Drive

The drive to the overlook is part of the experience, offering beautiful views of the Olympic Peninsula. :car:

Consider the Bypass Trail

A challenging bypass trail exists to navigate around the river. Check with rangers for current conditions. :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(8 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Glines Canyon Overlook to be a beautiful and historically significant site, offering a unique perspective on river restoration. The effort to reach the overlook is considered worthwhile for the stunning views and educational value. However, some visitors have noted disappointment with the locked bathrooms.

"I enjoyed this experience and view. It is interesting to learn the history of the dams and subsequent removal. It takes some effort to get there but is worth it . Disappointing that the bathrooms are locked. It is a legitimate attraction and has story boards as well as audio players . Why no usable outhouse ?"

Robert Szakal

"Beautiful! What else can you say about this place?"

brent casteel

"Nice walk"

Dirk Grunwald

What People Like

Beautiful views
Interesting history
Ecological restoration

What People Dislike

Locked bathrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Glines Canyon Overlook is located within Olympic National Park. Access typically involves driving along the Olympic Peninsula, often from Port Angeles. The specific route may vary depending on road conditions and closures, so it's advisable to check with the National Park Service for the most current directions. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Glines Canyon Overlook is accessible by car. The drive itself offers scenic views of the surrounding Olympic National Park landscape. TikTok

Road conditions and potential closures can occur in national parks. It's highly recommended to check the official Olympic National Park website or contact a ranger station for the latest information on road status before your visit. Reddit

Using a reliable GPS or a park map is recommended. The drive is part of the scenic experience, so enjoy the journey through the park. TikTok

Yes, Glines Canyon Overlook is relatively close to Lake Crescent and can be accessed as part of a larger itinerary exploring the Olympic National Park area. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Glines Canyon Overlook is located within Olympic National Park, which requires an entrance fee. You will need a valid park pass to enter. Instagram

As an outdoor overlook within a national park, Glines Canyon Overlook is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific road access might be subject to seasonal or weather-related closures. Instagram

No, there is no separate fee for the overlook itself beyond the standard Olympic National Park entrance fee. Instagram

Tickets or passes for Olympic National Park can often be purchased in advance online or at park entrance stations. It's a good idea to secure your pass beforehand to save time. Instagram

Currently, there are no specific timed entry requirements for Glines Canyon Overlook. However, park policies can change, so always check the official Olympic National Park website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the panoramic view of the Elwha River valley, showcasing the ongoing ecological restoration after the dam removal. Informative storyboards and audio players explain the history and significance of the site. Instagram+1

There is a trail leading to the Glines Canyon Spillway Overlook. It's generally considered a moderate hike, offering rewarding views. Instagram

Reports indicate that the bathrooms at the overlook can sometimes be locked, so it's advisable to be prepared for this possibility. Reddit

Glines Canyon Dam, also known as the Upper Elwha Dam, was the largest dam removed in history, allowing the Elwha River to flow freely again and begin its natural restoration. Instagram

While some trails in Olympic National Park are dog-friendly, it's crucial to check the park's specific pet regulations. Some areas may have restrictions to protect wildlife and natural habitats. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The overlook provides sweeping vistas of the Elwha River valley, especially striking during fall colors. Capture the scale of the river's restoration and the surrounding mountainous terrain. TikTokInstagram

Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the landscape, especially during the fall. Golden hour light can also enhance the scenic views. TikTok

For personal photography, no special permit is typically required. However, if you plan on commercial photography or videography, you may need to obtain a permit from the National Park Service. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the valley. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures. :camerawithflash:

The main overlook area offers the primary viewpoints. Explore slightly off the main path (while staying on designated trails) for unique perspectives, but always prioritize safety. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Glines Canyon Overlook offers a unique educational opportunity for families. The storyboards and audio players explain the fascinating history of the Elwha River dam removal in an engaging way. It's a chance to teach children about environmental restoration and the power of nature. Instagram

While the overlook itself is easily accessible, the hike to the spillway might be more challenging for very young children. Consider the length and terrain of any trails before embarking. Pack snacks and water, and be aware that restroom facilities can sometimes be unavailable, so plan accordingly. Reddit

🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For hikers, the trail to the Glines Canyon Spillway Overlook offers a rewarding experience with beautiful views. Instagram Beyond the main overlook, Olympic National Park boasts an extensive network of trails catering to all levels of hikers. Instagram

Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the ongoing ecological recovery of the Elwha River. Observing the natural processes at play and the return of wildlife is a significant draw. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this incredible environment. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Elwha River Restoration: A Triumph of Nature

The Glines Canyon Overlook offers a profound glimpse into one of the most ambitious dam removal and river restoration projects in North America. For decades, the Glines Canyon Dam (also known as the Upper Elwha Dam) and the Elwha Dam significantly altered the natural flow of the Elwha River, impacting salmon runs and sediment transport. The decision to remove these dams, completed in 2014, marked a turning point for the ecosystem. Instagram

Visitors can witness the dramatic transformation firsthand. The overlook provides a vantage point to see how the river has begun to reclaim its course, carving new channels and reconnecting with its floodplain. Interpretive signs and audio players at the site detail the complex engineering and ecological processes involved, making it an educational and inspiring stop for anyone interested in environmental science and conservation. Instagram

This site is a testament to the power of nature's resilience. The ongoing recovery of the Elwha River ecosystem, including the return of vital salmon populations, is a story of hope and a powerful example of successful ecological restoration. Instagram

Navigating the Olympic National Park Roads

Accessing Glines Canyon Overlook involves navigating the scenic roads of Olympic National Park. These roads are often winding and can be subject to weather-related closures, especially during winter months. It's crucial to plan your route and check for any advisories before you set out. TikTok

Many visitors combine a trip to Glines Canyon Overlook with other popular destinations within the park, such as Lake Crescent or the Hoh Rainforest. Having a good map and a reliable GPS device is recommended. Be prepared for varying road conditions and allow ample travel time, as the park's beauty often encourages slower, more deliberate driving. Instagram

Some sections of the road may be unpaved or have rough patches, particularly if you venture onto less-traveled routes. Always drive cautiously and be aware of wildlife that may cross the road. The park rangers are an excellent resource for the most up-to-date information on road conditions and any potential detours. Reddit

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