Full-Day Olympic National Park Small-Group Tour — Hoh Rainforest, Rialto Beach & Sol Duc Falls
Spend a day on the west side of Olympic National Park with an expert naturalist guide — from tidepool ecosystems at Rialto Beach to old-growth giants along the Hoh River and the spray of Sol Duc Falls. This small-group tour blends coastal drama with rainforest immersion in a single, carefully paced day.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for damp conditions
Bring a waterproof outer layer and mid-layer — temperatures shift between coast and forest and rain is common year-round.
Watch tide times
Rialto Beach and tidepool exploration depend on low tide windows; check tide charts the night before and follow guide timing.
Sturdy, grippy footwear
Expect slick roots, muddy boardwalks and wet rocks—trail runners or light hiking boots with good traction are best.
Hydrate and bring snacks
Guides provide snacks but carry 1–2 liters of water and compact, calorie-dense snacks to keep energy up through 6–8 hours.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A quiet pullout along the Hoh River where moss-draped branches create natural ‘rooms’ for photography
- •A short, lesser-used spur trail off the main Hoh River Trail that opens to a secluded pool favored by local anglers
Wildlife
- •Banana slugs (especially on damp forest floors)
- •Bald eagles hunting over rivers and shorelines
Conservation Note
The park emphasizes Leave No Trace and sensitive tidepool etiquette; stay on designated trails and avoid touching intertidal creatures to reduce long-term impacts.
The Hoh River valley is ancestral territory of the Hoh (Chalá·at) people; the park’s history also includes intensive early-20th-century logging that shaped present-day old-growth pockets.
Photographer's Notes
- • Rialto Beach driftwood logs for wide coastal panoramas
- • The boardwalk viewpoint above Sol Duc Falls for framed waterfall shots
- • A mossy clearing along the Hoh River Trail for canopy and macro compositions
What to Bring
Waterproof rain jacketEssential
Protects against coastal spray and rainforest drizzle.
Hiking shoes with good tractionEssential
Keeps footing secure on wet roots, mud and rocky shorelines.
Reusable water bottle (1–2L)Essential
Hydration for a long day with limited refill points.
Compact camera or wide-angle lens
Captures sweeping seascapes, tall canopy shots and close-up tidepool life.
Common Questions
Where do we meet for the tour?
Meet at the Forks Park & Ride by the Forks Transit Center; the van leaves from there and returns you to the same spot.
How strenuous is the hiking?
The day includes roughly 4–6 miles of walking with moderate elevation changes — not technical but requires steady footing on wet and uneven terrain.
Is this tour good for kids or older adults?
Yes — it’s suitable for a range of fitness levels, but participants should be able to walk several miles and navigate slick conditions; contact the operator about mobility needs.
What should I bring for tidepool viewing?
Bring closed-toe shoes that can get wet, a small dry bag for electronics, and follow the guide’s instructions to avoid disturbing marine life.
Are park entrance fees included?
Park entry fees are included in the tour inclusions noted by the operator.
What happens if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met?
If the minimum isn’t reached you’ll be offered the option to upgrade to a private tour for an additional charge or receive a full refund.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–8 hours
Location
Forks, Washington
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers who can comfortably walk 4–6 miles with moderate elevation change; steady balance on uneven surfaces is helpful.
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