Olympic National Park Tour with Ferry Ride

Exploring the natural splendor of Olympic National Park becomes easier and more memorable with this 13-hour guided tour that includes a ferry ride across Puget Sound. Starting from various pickup points in Seattle or Port Angeles, this tour offers a comprehensive look at some of the park’s most iconic sites, all while traveling comfortably in a modern, air-conditioned mini-bus with panoramic windows. Designed for those who want a rich sightseeing experience without the hassle of planning, this tour balances scenic vistas, wildlife viewing, and active stops.

This tour is particularly appealing for nature lovers and photographers who appreciate stunning viewpoints and in-depth guided commentary. However, it’s important to note that the full-day itinerary involves walking, some uneven terrain, and outdoor exposure, making it less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or certain health conditions. Overall, it offers a well-rounded day immersed in the diverse landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula.

Key Points

• Includes a scenic ferry ride across Puget Sound, adding a maritime element to the day
• Visits key sites like Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent, Marymere Falls, and tide pools
• Modern mini-bus features large panoramic windows for optimal sightseeing
• The tour lasts about 13 hours, with multiple stops for photos, walks, and wildlife viewing
• Various pickup points in Seattle and Port Angeles provide flexible meeting options
• Seasonal variations may affect the itinerary, so dress appropriately for weather changes

You can check availability for your dates here:

Ferry Ride Across Puget Sound Sets the Tone

The trip begins with a one-hour ferry ride across Puget Sound, which stands out as a memorable highlight. The wind in your hair and open water views offer a refreshing start to the day, setting a relaxed tone before the exploration of Olympic National Park begins. The ferry ride is a perfect opportunity to enjoy scenic vistas of the water, mountains, and possibly wildlife, making it a pleasant and picturesque crossing.

The ferry element not only adds a maritime touch but also offers a different perspective of the landscape. It’s an enjoyable beginning that elevates the overall experience, especially for those who appreciate combining water and land views in one trip.

Starting Points and Pickup Options in Seattle and Port Angeles

This tour departs from a variety of pickup locations in Seattle and Port Angeles, including popular hotels like the Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Sheraton Grand Seattle, and Hyatt Regency Seattle, among others. The flexibility makes it easier to fit into different travel plans, whether arriving in the city or staying near the port.

Once aboard the white or black bus with “Customized Tours” signage, travelers are greeted by a comfortable, spacious vehicle designed specifically for sightseeing. The large panoramic windows allow for unobstructed views of the scenery, and the wide center aisle ensures easy movement throughout the day.

Scenic Drive and Iconic Stops Along the Olympic Peninsula

The journey takes you through Clallam County, where stops include scenic viewpoints, a coffee break, and opportunities for breakfast or lunch. These stops are well-placed for stretching legs, snapping photos, or enjoying local food markets.

The tour continues to Elwha River, where photo stops and guided sightseeing provide a chance to see the river’s natural beauty and possibly spot wildlife. The route then enters Olympic National Park itself, with a focus on Lake Crescent, known for its striking blue waters, Hurricane Ridge with panoramic mountain views, and Marymere Falls — a short walk leads to this picturesque cascade.

The scenic drive is punctuated by stunning viewpoints, offering clear vistas of the rugged terrain and lush forests. The guide explains the significance of each location, enriching the experience without overwhelming.

Visiting Lake Crescent and Discovering Hurricane Ridge

Lake Crescent is a key highlight, with opportunities to stop, visit, and take photos of its tranquil, deep waters. The area provides a peaceful setting for brief walks or simply soaking in the scenery. Nearby, Hurricane Ridge offers some of the most iconic vistas in the park, with the guide leading guests through short guided tours at the viewpoint.

The elevation and expansive views from Hurricane Ridge make it an ideal spot for panoramic photography and admiring the rugged mountain landscape. The tour stops here for enough time to enjoy the scenery before continuing onward.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Marymere Falls and Tide Pools

A visit to Marymere Falls involves a short walk to the waterfall, which cascades down a mossy forest setting. It offers a chance to experience the park’s lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere. The tour also includes a stop at Salt Creek Recreation Area, where travelers can observe sea life in tide pools and enjoy the seaside environment, depending on the season.

These stops provide a mix of active exploration and relaxation, giving visitors time to explore, take photos, or simply appreciate the surroundings.

Coastal Views and Wildlife Opportunities

The coastal beach along the Strait of Juan de Fuca is part of the itinerary, offering sweeping views of the ocean and, possibly, spotting marine wildlife. The guide may lead guests through short walks or scenic overlooks that showcase the rugged coastline and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Sightings of animals like seabirds or marine mammals are possible, especially during the tide pool stops or along the coast. This diversity of environments—mountains, lakes, forests, and ocean—makes the tour particularly dynamic.

Return Ferry and Drop-off Locations in Seattle

After a full day of exploration, the second ferry ride takes travelers back across Puget Sound, closing the loop of the day’s maritime experience. The tour then concludes with drop-offs at convenient locations in Seattle, including hotels like the Courtyard by Marriott and Belltown Inn.

The drop-off points mirror the pickup options, making it easy to return to your accommodation or continue exploring the city now that the day’s adventure has ended.

Practical Details and Travel Tips

The 13-hour tour begins early with pickups around 7:30 AM, and includes free time in Seattle before boarding. It involves some walking, outdoor exposure, and varied terrain, so comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and essentials like sunscreen, water, and rain gear are recommended.

The tour operates in English with a live guide, and is not suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions, including back, heart, or mobility issues. The full itinerary may vary seasonally, so dress and plan accordingly.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This guided outing is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those interested in diverse landscapes. It offers a manageable way to see many of the park’s highlights without the need for extensive planning or driving. The inclusion of ferry rides and panoramic bus windows enhances the overall experience.

However, travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace, with less walking or outdoor activity, might find the full-day schedule a bit demanding. The tour’s structure makes it perfect for those who want an active, scenic, and educational day immersed in the natural beauty of Olympic National Park.

Olympic National Park Tour with Ferry Ride: A Scenic, Well-Organized Day

This tour delivers a comprehensive look at Olympic National Park, combining water, mountains, forests, and coastlines in one seamless day. The combination of ferry rides and guided stops at iconic locations makes it a standout choice for travelers seeking an adventurous yet manageable experience.

While the itinerary is packed, the modern mini-bus with panoramic windows ensures maximum enjoyment of the views, and the flexible pickup options make logistical planning straightforward. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors to the region or those wanting to capture stunning scenery in photographs.

The main limitations are the full-day duration and outdoor activity level, so those with limited mobility or seeking a more leisurely trip may want to consider other options. Still, for those ready for a full immersion in Olympic National Park’s diverse landscapes, this tour makes it easy and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 13 hours, including ferry rides and all stops.

What locations are visited during the day?
Stops include Clallam County, Elwha River, Lake Crescent, Hurricane Ridge, Marymere Falls, and the Salt Creek Recreation Area.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, travelers travel in a modern mini-bus with large panoramic windows designed for sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, water, and a camera are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for people with back problems, mobility impairments, heart problems, or pre-existing medical conditions.

How do I book or cancel?
Reservations can be made with flexible payment options, including cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Olympic National Park Tour offers a well-rounded, scenic day that showcases the park’s diverse beauty with ease, making it ideal for those who want a guided, all-encompassing adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby