Best of Olympic National Park Day Tour from Seattle — Lake Crescent, Hurricane Ridge & Coastal Tidepools
A single day to cross ecosystems: ferry out of Seattle, walk beneath ancient firs, stand above alpine meadows and poke at tidepools. This all-inclusive small-group tour delivers Olympic National Park’s highlights with a naturalist guide and hassle-free logistics.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for changeable weather
Bring multiple layers and a waterproof outer shell—conditions shift quickly from sea-level drizzle to windy ridge exposures.
Wear grippy shoes
Water-resistant hiking shoes with good traction are required November–April; trails and tidepools can be slippery year-round.
Plan for a long day
Expect 8–12 hours including travel time; bring snacks, electrolyte water, and any personal medications.
Charge your camera and phone
You'll hit several photo-ready stops; extra battery or a power bank keeps you shooting through sunset on the return ferry.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Elwha River restoration viewpoints—quiet salmon habitat and interpretive markers
- •The less-visited western stretch of Lake Crescent for late-afternoon light and fewer people
Wildlife
- •Black-tailed deer
- •River otters and coastal shorebirds
Conservation Note
Park stewardship focuses on habitat restoration and limiting visitor impacts—stick to trails, pack out trash, and follow tidepool rules to protect fragile intertidal life.
The Olympic Peninsula is traditional territory of Coast Salish and Quinault nations; recent restoration work like the Elwha dam removal has allowed rivers to reconnect with the sea after decades of alteration.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lake Crescent lakeshore
- • Hurricane Ridge lookout
- • A rocky north-coast tidepool platform
What to Bring
Waterproof rain jacketEssential
Protects against coastal drizzle and sudden showers, especially in shoulder seasons.
Sturdy hiking shoes with tractionEssential
Necessary for muddy trails, rocky headlands, and slippery tidepools.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece or wool)Essential
Keeps you warm on windy ridges and cool alpine mornings.
Camera or smartphone with extra battery
Captures coastal, alpine and forest scenes across changing light conditions.
Common Questions
Where does the tour pick up and return?
Pickup and drop-off are offered from downtown Seattle hotels, Airbnb addresses, or the Sheraton Grand by default; Bainbridge Island and Port Angeles pickups available on request.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Travelers must be at least 10 years old; activities and walking distances are adjusted for mixed-age groups but expect a full-day schedule.
What happens in bad weather?
The tour operates in most weather; guides adapt the itinerary (e.g., more coastal time or snowshoeing in winter). For full refund, cancel at least 24 hours prior if you prefer not to go in poor conditions.
Are park fees included?
Yes—Olympic National Park entrance fees are included in the tour price.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes—inform the operator at least 48 hours before departure so the picnic lunch can be adjusted.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most stops involve short hikes on uneven ground; the tour is not recommended for guests with serious mobility constraints or spinal/heart conditions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–12 hours
Location
Port Angeles, Washington
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers who can walk 2–5 miles over mixed terrain at an easy-to-brisk pace; some short uphill sections.
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