About Port Angeles

The town's history is a long one but it started out being the home of our local Native American tribes the Klallam and the Makah. They still have a strong spirit here and continue to be actively involved in caring for our lands and ecosystems. The tribe has been deeply involved with ecosystem restoration projects to help our local salmon return to the Elwha river and begin to restore their population. 

The settling of Port Angeles began in the 1850's after the establishment of the Canadian and US boundary. 

The town was built on the logging and timber industry and and in 1912 it was home to the world's largest sawmill. 

Port Angeles has been a stopping point for naval ships since the 1920's and in 1935 the Ediz Hook Coast Guard station was established. It is the oldest US Coast Guard station in our Country. 

Fun Fact! The downtown area is built over the old town of Port Angeles. You can still tour the underground town on our local Underground Heritage Tour. A fun stop during your stay. 

The Olympic Peninsula is home to amazing recreational opportunities! Port Angeles has access to the Olympic Discovery Trail which starts in Port Townsend and ends in LaPush the trail spans over 130 miles. A short drive into the Olympic National Park will put you on top of the world at Hurricane Ridge! If it's water recreation you are looking for you will find unparalleled beauty at Lake Crescent. Stop by the lodge for a tasty meal, accommodations or to rent a kayak or paddle board to go explore the natural beauty surrounding you. Many more natural resources surround our stunning area including the Sol Duc Hot Springs and Olympic National Forest.

It really takes a visit to appreciate the beauty and wonder that is the Olympic Peninsula!