Olympic National Park

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Diversity Unveiled: Exploring the Ecosystems of Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981, showcases the remarkable diversity of ecosystems within a single geographical area. Situated in the northwestern corner of Washington State, this expansive park offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to witness the harmonious coexistence of glacier-capped peaks, lush rainforests, and a pristine coastline.

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UNESCO Description of the World Heritage Site

Located in the north-west of Washington State, Olympic National Park is renowned for the diversity of its ecosystems. Glacier-clad peaks interspersed with extensive alpine meadows are surrounded by an extensive old growth forest, among which is the best example of intact and protected temperate rainforest in the Pacific Northwest. Eleven major river systems drain the Olympic mountains, offering some of the best habitat for anadromous fish species in the country. The park also includes 100 km of wilderness coastline, the longest undeveloped coast in the contiguous United States, and is rich in native and endemic animal and plant species, including critical populations of the endangered northern spotted owl, marbled murrelet and bull trout.

Encyclopedia Record: Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a national park of the United States located in Washington, on the Olympic Peninsula. The park has four regions: the Pacific coastline, alpine areas, the west-side temperate rainforest, and the forests of the drier east side. Within the park there are three distinct ecosystems, including subalpine forest and wildflower meadow, temperate forest, and the rugged Pacific coast.

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