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Olympic National Park Day Tour from Seattle — Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent & Ferry Experience

Olympic National Park Day Tour from Seattle — Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent & Ferry Experience

Leave the city behind on a full-day small-group tour that pairs a Puget Sound ferry with alpine vistas at Hurricane Ridge and the glassy calm of Lake Crescent. Perfect for a single-day immersion into Olympic National Park’s dramatic ecosystems.

Port Angeles, Washington
10–11 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Layer for shifting weather

Bring a midlayer and a waterproof shell—conditions can change rapidly between the ferry, lowland rainforest, and exposed ridge.

Arrive early for pickup

Pickup is scheduled across 14 Seattle-area locations; arrive 5–10 minutes early and confirm your pickup point three days ahead.

Footwear for short hikes

Wear sturdy trail shoes for muddy boardwalks and rocky viewpoints—snowshoes are provided in winter when required.

Respect wildlife and leave no trace

Keep distance from elk or deer, pack out wrappers, and stay on trails to protect delicate understory and old-growth roots.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Marymere Falls trailhead and its quiet lake outlooks
  • Elwha River viewpoints and roadside salmon habitat interpretation areas

Wildlife

  • Roosevelt elk
  • Bald eagle

Conservation Note

The park manages fragile old-growth forests and alpine meadows—stick to trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and minimize your footprint to protect rare ecosystems.

Olympic National Park was designated in 1938 and protects lands long occupied and managed by Coast Salish tribes; many place names and cultural sites reflect that heritage.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour (sunrise or sunset on the ferry and ridge), Mid-morning for clearer ridge visibility, Overcast afternoons for rainforest color saturation
Key viewpoints:
  • Hurricane Ridge overlook along the ridgeline
  • Lake Crescent shoreline near Marymere Falls
  • Ferry deck looking back at the Seattle skyline
Subjects to capture:Alpine panoramas, Reflections on Lake Crescent, Wildlife and seabirds

What to Bring

Layered clothingEssential

Quick-dry base, fleece midlayer and waterproof shell handle ferry spray, alpine wind, and rainforest drizzle.

Sturdy hiking shoesEssential

Traction and ankle support help on muddy boardwalks and rocky ridge trails.

Daypack with water and snacksEssential

Carry personal hydration, snacks, camera, and an extra layer for variable conditions.

Binoculars or telephoto lens

Use for distant wildlife viewing on Hurricane Ridge and sea birds from the ferry.

Common Questions

What time does the tour return to Seattle?

Return times vary by itinerary and traffic but expect to return in the evening after approximately 10–11 hours; confirm pickup time when booking.

Is the ferry ticket included?

Yes—round-trip Washington State Ferry tickets between Seattle and Bainbridge Island are included in the tour price.

Can I snowshoe instead of hike?

In winter months the operator provides snowshoes and the guide will lead appropriate snowshoe walks when Hurricane Ridge conditions allow.

Are meals provided?

A sandwich lunch, bottled water and a granola snack are provided; bring extra snacks if you have specific dietary needs.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children are welcome but under-18s must be accompanied by an adult; infants ride on laps and booster seats may be required—notify the operator in advance.

What happens if Hurricane Ridge is closed?

If ridge access is closed due to weather or road conditions, the itinerary substitutes coastal viewpoints such as Ediz Hook and East Beach.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

10–11 hours

Location

Port Angeles, Washington

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness for a long day of riding, walking short steep sections and easy hikes; comfortable sitting during transfers.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Port Angeles?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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