11 Best Olympic National Park Tours Not To Miss (2023)
Are you looking to book the best Olympic National Park tours? You’ve come to the right place as we share the best of the best for your next trip to the park!
It’s fantastic that you’re considering a magnificent Olympic National Park tour.
As a couple who have spent several days exploring this wondrous terrain and are regular visitors to national parks across the beautiful U.S., we can vouch for the transformative experiences that await you in this Pacific Northwest paradise.
We are aware that embarking on an adventure like this can be daunting. Selecting the right tour amidst a multitude of options can feel overwhelming.
But with our extensive travel experience and a love for the outdoors, we aim to guide you toward making an informed decision about your Olympic National Park tour.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for the next thrilling trail or a family seeking a tranquil retreat amidst nature, we have a host of experiences ready for you.
So let’s get started!
Our Top 3 Best Olympic National Park Tours
Too busy to read our complete list right now? Here are our top 3 recommendations!
After our top 3, you will find expanded tour information below. We have the tours broken down by starting location (Seattle, Port Angeles, or Forks) to help you find the perfect one.
Private Luxury Day Trip w/ Lunch
✔️ Private
✔️ Seattle departure
✔️ Nature hike at Hurricane Ridge
Best of Olympic NP Small Group
✔️ Small Group
✔️ Seattle departure
✔️ Lake Crescent & Marymere Falls
Hoh Rain Forest & Rialto Beach Tour
✔️ Small Group
✔️ Port Angeles departure
✔️ Hike in the Hoh Rain Forest
Excellent Olympic National Park Tours From Seattle
Ready to embark on a magical journey from the bustling cityscape of Seattle to the lush, tranquil wilderness of Olympic National Park?
1. Private Luxury Day Trip With Lunch
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🕦 12 Hours
☘️ Our #1 Pick for the Best Olympic National Park Tours
This immersive private tour is tailored to your group’s preferences and includes all the trappings of a truly luxurious experience.
Departing conveniently from your downtown Seattle hotel, you’ll be whisked away in a luxury Mercedes van to the dazzling natural beauty beyond the city.
Marvel at the Seattle skyline from the Washington State Ferry, while enjoying fresh-baked pastries and a morning coffee or tea.
En route to the park, you’ll stop by the historic town of Port Gamble, a captivating National Historic Landmark that harks back to a bygone era.
On reaching the park, brace yourself for the majestic views from Hurricane Ridge, a world-renowned vantage point for appreciating the stunning mountains and vibrant alpine meadows.
Here, take a guided nature walk that dives deep into the area’s rich ecology and geology.
Your adventure continues with a gourmet picnic lunch by the Elwha River, the site of the largest-ever dam removal project. After lunch, a short woodland walk will lead you to the serene Madison Falls.
Finally, behold the crystal-clear waters of Lake Crescent, the second-deepest lake in Washington, tucked into the lush evergreen foothills of the Olympics.
If time permits, you can also enjoy an optional guided nature hike through the awe-inspiring old-growth forest.
Amazing tour! The picnic lunch was absolutely delicious. Daniel was a fabulous guide and full of knowledge!!
– Marisa A (more reviews)
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for the Private Luxury Day
2. Best Of Olympic National Park Small Group Tour
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🕦 12 Hours | 🏅 Viator Badge of Excellence
☘️ Our #2 Pick for the Best Olympic National Park Tours
Discover the spectacular wilderness of the Pacific Northwest on this full-day, small-group tour of Olympic National Park.
This adventure immerses you in diverse environments – from serene beaches and majestic mountains to ancient forests and picturesque farms.
Travel in a luxury vehicle from your downtown Seattle hotel, then journey on foot with a professional naturalist guide through the oldest forests in the country or along stunning beaches with breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains.
An essential part of this voyage includes a scenic ferry ride from downtown Seattle across Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island, setting the stage for the nature-filled spectacle to follow.
The route also takes you through the Olympic Peninsula and stops at remarkable sites like the Elwha Dam Removal Site, the peaceful Lake Crescent, and the hidden gem of Marymere Falls.
Weather permitting, you might even visit the North Coast of the Olympic Peninsula for a spot of tide-pooling and photography.
With a gourmet lunch, morning tea with pastries, and an array of light snacks included, this tour ensures a delightful, nourishing journey.
📎 Tip: The tour transforms into a charming snowshoe trek through the park’s frost-laden beauty in winter.
Thanks to Jackie and a group of amazing strangers, I had one of the most unforgettable days of my life. Everything was perfect…I highly, highly recommend this tour.
– Delaney S (more reviews)
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for the Best of Olympic NP
3. Olympic National Park Small Group With Lunch
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🕦 12 Hours | 🏅 Viator Badge of Excellence
This full-day, small-group tour will have you enter a world of enchanting natural beauty in Olympic National Park.
Traverse the glacial mountains, serene lakes, and ancient forests nestled across the waters from Seattle in the comfort of a luxury van.
Your day kicks off with a scenic ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
Sip coffee, nibble on fresh pastries, and soak in awe-inspiring views of Seattle, Puget Sound, and the surrounding mountains as you cruise.
Stop over at the historic town of Port Gamble en route, soaking in the rich regional history and the quaint old-world charm.
Once inside the park, prepare to be spellbound by Hurricane Ridge, renowned for offering the best panoramas of the surrounding mountains, vibrant alpine meadows, and well-kept nature trails.
Savor a gourmet picnic lunch beside the Elwha River and stroll through the woods to Madison Falls while the food is prepared.
Finally, make your way to Lake Crescent, a dazzling spectacle nestled amidst the lush evergreen foothills of the Olympics. Its crystal-clear waters, reflecting a vibrant spectrum of blues and turquoise, create an unforgettably picturesque scene.
One of the BEST tours we’ve been on. My parents, myself, and my 11 year old son all felt the same…The day was planned and executed perfectly.
– Laura D (more reviews)
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for Olympic NP Small Group
4. Olympic National Park Day Tour From Seattle
Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐️ | 🕦 8-10 Hours | 🏅 Viator Badge of Excellence
Immerse yourself in the unique splendor of Olympic National Park on this memorable full-day tour.
Set off from Seattle to uncover the Park’s four distinctive regions – the Pacific coastline, the majestic alpine areas, the mesmerizing temperate rainforest, and the intriguing drier east side forests.
With round-trip transfers from various Seattle neighborhoods or the airport, your journey will be easy and comfortable.
Prepare to be captivated by the picturesque Hurricane Ridge, a beloved spot for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
Admire the panoramic views of the park from this mountainous region and, in the summer, enjoy a leisurely picnic against this stunning backdrop.
When the weather is less cooperative, the itinerary changes to explore the scenic Ediz Hook and East Beach.
Next, you’ll venture into the Hoh Rain Forest, one of the few remaining temperate rainforests in the world. Here, discover a myriad of unique plant and tree species, creating a lush green spectacle.
Complete your day tour with a tranquil visit to Lake Crescent.
Formed by glacial activity during the last Ice Age, its brilliant blue waters add a surreal touch to the park’s diverse landscapes.
This was a great chance to get a taste of Olympic and the surrounding area. Duan was a very engaged and attentive guide. It was a great day!
– McCall C (more reviews)
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for Olympic NP Day Tour
5. 3 Days In Olympic: Silent Forest – Hoh Rain Forest
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🕦 3 Days
Escape the city’s hustle and step into the serene embrace of the Olympic National Park on this immersive three-day adventure.
Picture yourself delving into one of the largest expanses of wilderness in the lower 48, where every moment reveals a new facet of nature’s grandeur.
Starting with a convenient pick-up from your Seattle hotel, you’ll be transported to a world where the hum of city life gives way to the soothing melodies of the wild.
The highlights include scouting for Roosevelt elk and black-tailed deer, witnessing the awe-inspiring views from Hurricane Ridge, strolling along the pristine Ruby Beach, and immersing yourself in the majestic tranquility of the Hoh Rain Forest.
Your journey spans the enchanting Marymere Falls, the picturesque Pacific Coast, the serene Lake Crescent, and an unforgettable exploration of the famous rainforest.
Each day is a new chapter in your intimate encounter with nature, all enhanced by the exclusive feel of a small group experience.
This trip was amazing! Sarah, our tour guide, was super knowledgeable, nice and accommodating! She went the extra mile to make our trip special! The Olympic National Forest is truly a national treasure!
– Tripadvisor Review (more reviews)
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for 3 Days In Olympic NP
Incredible Olympic National Park Tours From Port Angeles
Eager to explore the breathtaking beauty of Olympic National Park from the charming gateway of Port Angeles?
6. Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach Tour
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🕦 9 Hours | 🏅 Viator Badge of Excellence
☘️ Our #3 Pick for the Best Olympic National Park Tours
Step into a world of natural wonder on this incredible tour through the enchanting landscapes of Olympic National Park.
From Port Angeles, set off to two of the park’s most breathtaking destinations – the enchanting Hoh Rain Forest and the rugged Rialto Beach.
Let the magic of the Hoh Rain Forest sweep you away as you hike through trails lined with towering Sitka Spruce trees and lush fern-covered forest floors.
A knowledgeable guide will bring the surroundings to life, offering insight into the vibrant ecosystem that thrives beneath the rainforest canopy.
Break up your journey with a brief interlude at Forks Outfitters. It’s an excellent opportunity to grab a quick souvenir or a tasty snack for the trail.
Then, feel the exhilarating rush of the Pacific Ocean’s waves at Rialto Beach. The scene is set with towering sea stacks, massive driftwood logs, and the awe-inspiring power of nature.
Choose to explore at your own pace or join a guided hike to uncover the beach’s secrets.
With round-trip transfers, park entrance fees, and the option for a packed lunch, this small-group tour is your ticket to a hassle-free exploration of Olympic National Park’s unforgettable beauty.
Amazing tours thru two strikingly beautiful places. The guide was everything we could have hoped for and more. Highly recommend.
– James A (more reviews)
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for Hoh Rain Forest & Rialto Beach
7. Sol Duc, Lake Crescent, Hurricane Ridge Tour
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🕦 9 Hours | 🏅 Viator Badge of Excellence
Uncover the untamed beauty of Olympic National Park on this exciting small-group tour to the captivating Hurricane Ridge.
Starting from Port Angeles, you’ll be whisked away on a scenic ride to one of the park’s most beloved hiking destinations (reaching an elevation of 5,242 feet!).
Embrace the thrill of a guided 2-mile hike, traversing trails that showcase the park’s stunning variety.
Each step along the ridge promises heart-stirring views over the sparkling Juan De Fuca Strait and the majestic Olympic Mountains, painting a picture of nature at its finest.
But the adventure doesn’t end there.
Feel the mist of the remarkable Sol Duc Falls on a guided exploration of its lush river canyon. This 48-foot waterfall is a sight, cascading into the serene forest below.
Finally, you’ll soak in the tranquil ambiance of Lake Crescent, a glittering gem amidst the park’s lush landscapes.
Whether you’re exploring the historic lodge or venturing down its hiking trails, Lake Crescent is a tranquil retreat not to be missed.
Tracy was not only super educated on all the nature we encountered, but she had such an amazing passion and vibe it made the exploration even better than we could imagine.
– Ava F (more reviews)
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for the Hurricane Ridge Tour
Amazing Olympic National Park Tours From Forks
Ready to dive into nature’s wonders right from the heart of the Pacific Northwest? Discover the finest tours from Forks, your perfect starting point to uncover the stunning beauty of the Olympic National Park!
8. Full-Day Private Tour & Hike In Olympic National Park
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🕦 6-10 Hours
Embrace the breathtaking beauty of Olympic National Park with this immersive private coastal tour from Forks.
Dive into a world of enchantment, starting with the Hoh Rain Forest, a mystical haven filled with lush, moss-draped old-growth trees where every trail offers a unique experience.
Then venture towards the mighty Pacific Ocean to witness the astonishing Tree of Life.
It’s a marvel of nature that defies gravity, its roots hanging over a sea cave like an organic bridge, mesmerizing in its resilience and strength.
Stroll along the rugged shores of Ruby Beach, home to awe-inspiring rock formations and diverse marine life in its tidal pools.
The tour is meticulously timed to match the ebb and flow of the tide for a chance to explore these aquatic microcosms.
Finally, prepare to be awestruck by the colossal Big Cedar Tree at Kalaloch, a testament to the ancient giants that grace the Olympic Peninsula.
Comfortable private transport, a refreshing lunch, and tailored hikes according to your group’s abilities make this tour a must for every nature lover.
Our guide Sara was absolutely amazing!! We had a blast. One of our favorite days of the trip for sure…Such beautiful views and perfect weather!
– Tripadvisor REview (more reviews)
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for Full-Day Private Tour & Hike
9. Small Group Hiking Tour Of Olympic National Park
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🕦 6-7 Hours
On this small-group tour, you’ll be escorted by an expert naturalist guide as you explore a diverse wonderland of ancient forests, alpine meadows, and coastal gems.
Start your day with an enlightening exploration of Ruby Beach’s intertidal zone.
As the tide recedes, it reveals a universe of marine life, from vibrant starfish to countless other captivating species. It’s a perspective-changing experience that will forever alter how you perceive the ocean’s edge.
Journey next into the heart of the Hoh Rain Forest for a leisurely 4-mile hike.
Venture off the beaten track and immerse yourself in a lush world teeming with countless species.
Your guide will shed light on why this unique ecosystem is one of a kind, offering an engaging, interactive learning experience.
Behold the astonishing Big Cedar Tree at Kalaloch, an ancient giant demonstrating the life cycle in real-time as new saplings sprout from its lightning-struck trunk.
End your adventure with the “Tree of Life,” a symbol of resilience rooted precariously on the ocean’s edge.
📎 Tip: No one knows when the “Tree of Life” will fall. It could next in 6 months or 60 years, so visit while you can!
My partner and I were traveling to the area and wanted a tour that would really allow us to learn about Olympic. This tour was just that! Our guide, Lauren, really opened our eyes to so much that we would have missed otherwise.
-Tripadvisor Review (more reviews)
➡️ Check Prices & Availability for the Small Group Hiking Tour
Other options for Olympic National Park Guided Tours
Here are a couple more options if you still can’t decide.
10. 2-Day Olympic National Park Tour
Head out with Tours Northwest and begin your exploration with the ethereal Hoh Rain Forest, a world carpeted in a sea of lush green mosses, where age-old trees tower towards the sky.
It’s a place of profound tranquility and one of Earth’s wettest places – something you’ll understand once you’ve experienced its magic.
Next, let the dramatic Pacific coastline captivate you. Wander amidst sea stacks, spot vibrant marine life in the tide pools, and admire the grandeur of forested cliffs.
Feel the thrill of Hurricane Ridge. Experience gusts of wind that can reach up to 75 miles per hour, and learn about the intriguing tectonic forces that have shaped this rugged landscape.
Complete your adventure with a relaxing stay in the quaint town of Forks, WA. It’s a unique mix of local charm and pop culture fame that adds an interesting twist to your journey.
11. Private Rialto Beach Tide Pooling
This tour unlocks the wonder of the park’s Pacific coastline, offering a captivating adventure perfect for nature lovers and families alike.
Rialto Beach transforms into an underwater treasure trove as the tide ebbs away.
Witness the spectacle of pools teeming with fascinating marine life, including crabs, sea stars, and anemones.
Just a short hike away lies the “Hole-in-the-Wall,” a grand natural arch, a testament to the power and beauty of nature.
Equipped with trekking poles and water filtration, embark on this dramatic coastal adventure guided by seasoned professionals. These expert guides illuminate this magnificent coastal region’s diverse flora and fauna, making this an informative and enchanting journey.
This enriching 5-hour exploration of Rialto Beach offers an unforgettable experience.
FAQs For Olympic National Park Day Tours
Do you have some burning questions about the best Olympic National Park tours? Let’s see if we can’t answer a few.
Are There Guided Tours In Olympic National Park?
Absolutely! There are numerous guided tours available in Olympic National Park. These tours provide opportunities to explore diverse landscapes, from the lush Hoh Rain Forest to the rugged coastline of Rialto Beach, under the guidance of knowledgeable guides. It’s a fantastic way to enrich your visit and learn more about this unique ecosystem.
What Are The Best Months To Visit Olympic National Park?
The best time to visit Olympic National Park is typically during the summer, from June to September. The weather is generally pleasant during this period, and all park areas are accessible. However, each season offers a unique experience, with spring bringing wildflowers and autumn offering stunning fall colors.
What Is The Best Way To Get Around Olympic National Park?
The best way to get around Olympic National Park depends on your personal preferences. A car allows more flexibility for exploration at your own pace. However, a guided tour provides insightful knowledge about the park’s history and biodiversity, and you won’t have to worry about navigation, driving conditions, or parking, which can enhance your overall experience.
What Town To Stay In When Visiting Olympic National Park?
Port Angeles and Forks, located directly on the Olympic Peninsula, offer the closest proximity to Olympic National Park and are great choices. Port Angeles provides quick access to popular spots like Hurricane Ridge, while Forks is near Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach. Seattle is a bit further but offers more urban amenities and a scenic ferry ride to the Peninsula.
Is One Day Enough For Olympic National Park?
While it’s possible to see some highlights of Olympic National Park in one day, its vastness and diversity – spanning rainforests, mountains, and coastlines – truly deserve more time. Plan a multi-day visit to immerse yourself in the park’s unique ecosystems fully. This allows time to explore different areas without feeling rushed.
To Finish – Best Olympic National Park Tours
As our journey exploring the wonders of Olympic National Park draws to a close, it’s clear that this place’s unique blend of rainforests, mountains, and coastlines makes it a destination like no other.
The diversity of the best Olympic National Park tours we listed caters to everyone, promising an unforgettable experience no matter which one you choose.
But if you still can’t decide, you really can’t go wrong with our top choice, the private luxury day trip from Seattle.
So step into the wild, discover hidden trails, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
If you want to learn more about Olympic National Park, why not read our article about the best waterfalls in Olympic National Park?