One-Day Olympic National Park Tour from Seattle — Hurricane Ridge & Lake Crescent
Cross Puget Sound by ferry and spend a day among alpine ridges and vivid glacial lakes with a guided small-group tour from Seattle. This full-day trip covers Hurricane Ridge panoramas, Lake Crescent’s blue water, and scenic drives across Hood Canal—logistics handled, views guaranteed.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for changeable weather
Hurricane Ridge can be windy and cool even on sunny days—pack a windproof layer and a warm mid-layer in your daypack.
Comfortable footwear
Short ridge walks and lakeshore paths are uneven; closed-toe hiking shoes with good traction make the day easier.
Bring a refillable bottle
Bottled water is provided but a refillable bottle saves waste and keeps you hydrated during the longer outdoor segments.
Plan for photo stops
Allow extra time at overlooks—ferry windows and Hurricane Ridge both reward slow stops for photos and wildlife spotting.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Marymere Falls trail off Lake Crescent for a quick waterfall detour
- •Quiet coves and old logging docks along the southern shore of Lake Crescent for reflections and morning light
Wildlife
- •Roosevelt elk
- •Bald eagles
Conservation Note
The park’s soils and shorelines are fragile—stay on marked trails, pack out waste, and keep distance from wildlife to minimize human impact.
Olympic National Park was established in 1938 to protect the region’s unusual mix of coastal, rainforest and alpine ecosystems; the Olympic Peninsula is also ancestral land of several Coast Salish tribes.
Photographer's Notes
- • Hurricane Ridge main overlook
- • Lakeshore near Marymere Falls trailhead at Lake Crescent
- • Bainbridge ferry bow or waterfront for Puget Sound islands
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Protects against coastal rain and high-elevation wind at Hurricane Ridge.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Support and grip for short trails and wet lakeshore paths.
Layered clothingEssential
Temperatures vary from ferry deck to alpine ridge—layers let you adapt quickly.
Camera or smartphone with extra battery
Ferry crossings and ridge viewpoints offer wide vistas best captured with a reliable battery or portable charger.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what time does it return to Seattle?
The tour is approximately 11 hours; pickup times vary by hotel but returning to Seattle is usually late afternoon to early evening—confirm exact times when you book.
Are ferry tickets and park entrance included?
Yes—roundtrip Bainbridge ferry tickets and Olympic National Park entrance fees are included in the tour price.
What happens if Hurricane Ridge is closed?
If Hurricane Ridge is closed for weather or road conditions, the itinerary shifts to alternatives such as Ediz Hook and East Beach on the Olympic coast.
Is the tour suitable for children or infants?
Children are allowed; infants must sit on an adult’s lap. Booster seats may be required for young children—contact the operator in advance if needed.
Are restroom and food breaks provided?
Yes, restrooms are available during stops and a boxed sandwich lunch plus bottled water and a snack are included.
Can I bring my own photography gear?
Yes—bring whatever gear you need; be prepared to carry it yourself during short walks and keep equipment protected from wind and spray.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–11 hours
Location
Port Angeles, Washington
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for people comfortable with a long day of standing and short walks; not strenuous but expect stairs and uneven ground.
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