Olympic Peninsula Day Trip from Seattle: Hurricane Ridge, Sol Duc & Tide Pools
A single long day across Puget Sound takes you from Seattle’s waterfront to rainforest, glacier-fed lakes, mile-high ridgelines and tide pools on the Pacific. This private tour packs Hurricane Ridge, Sol Duc Falls, Crescent Lake and Salt Creek into one immersive, logistics-light outing.
The Experience
Before You Go
Check tide charts before the coast stop
Salt Creek tide pools are only reliable at low tide—consult NOAA tide tables and plan the tour’s timing to match.
Wear waterproof, grippy footwear
Trails through Sol Duc and the shoreline can be wet, rooted and slick—sturdy hiking shoes or light boots make the day far more comfortable.
Layer for sudden weather shifts
Hurricane Ridge can be a mile-high cold pocket even on warm days; pack a wind shell and mid-layer.
Hydrate and pace the day
This is a 13–14 hour outing—carry at least 1–2 liters of water, snack often, and mention any mobility limits when booking pickup.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Dungeness Spit and Lighthouse near Sequim for low-key coastal walking
- •Marymere Falls near Lake Crescent — an easy waterfall walk with fewer crowds
Wildlife
- •Roosevelt elk
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Tide pools and old-growth forests are fragile—avoid turning rocks, stick to trails, and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect intertidal and forest habitats.
The Olympic Peninsula has been home to Coast Salish peoples for millennia; Olympic National Park was established in 1938 to protect its rare mix of ecosystems.
Photographer's Notes
- • Hurricane Ridge visitor overlook
- • Salt Creek Park beach and sea stacks
- • Sol Duc Falls footbridge
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking shoesEssential
Protects against wet roots and slippery coastal rocks.
Light rain jacket/wind shellEssential
Wind and showers are common at higher elevations and on the coast.
Daypack with 1–2L water and snacksEssential
Keeps hydration and energy handy across a long day of stops.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Improves wildlife viewing from overlooks and meadows.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and when does it start?
The tour runs about 13–14 hours and typically departs early from Seattle; exact pickup time is provided at booking.
Is the ferry crossing included?
Yes—this itinerary includes the Puget Sound ferry crossing as part of the route.
Are hikes difficult and are they optional?
Hikes are short to moderate (1–3 miles); many stops include optional short walks—guests can often remain at viewpoints instead of hiking.
Do I need to bring food or are meals provided?
Bottled water is provided; meals and breakfast stops are usually not included, so bring snacks or budget time for a roadside cafe stop.
Are tide pools always accessible?
No—tide pool access is tide-dependent and the guide will plan stops around low tide windows when possible.
Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Families can enjoy the tour, but it requires a long day of travel and moderate walking; mention any mobility concerns during booking so pickup and pacing can be adjusted.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
13–14 hours
Location
Port Angeles, Washington
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Should be comfortable on short hikes (1–3 miles) and able to manage occasional slick, steep sections; general good mobility and stamina for a long day required.
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