Half Day Guided Tour of Olympic National Park

Explore Olympic National Park with a Guided Half-Day Tour

For those eager to experience the natural beauty of Olympic National Park in just a few hours, this half-day guided tour offers an excellent choice. Priced at $90 per person, the tour lasts approximately 4 hours and departs from Port Angeles, making it an easy and convenient way to enjoy some of the park’s most stunning sights. The tour is especially suited for visitors with moderate physical fitness, as it involves minimal hiking but includes some walking and scenic stops.

This tour stands out for its small group size, capped at 14 people, which ensures an intimate experience and personalized attention from the professional naturalist guide. Bookings are typically made about 39 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Whether you’re short on time but want a taste of Olympic’s grandeur or prefer a relaxed paced trip with expert insights, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience.

Key Points

• Four-hour guided tour starting in Port Angeles for $90 per person
• Visit Madison Creek Falls, Lake Crescent, and Marymere Falls
• Includes round-trip transportation in a 12/15 passenger van
• Small group size (max 14 participants) for a personalized experience
• Scenic viewpoints at Salt Creek Recreation Area, with coastal and forest views
• Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness

Pickup and Meeting Details in Port Angeles

The tour begins at Olympic Hiking Co., located at 115 E Railroad Ave, Suite #110, Port Angeles. The meeting point is within easy reach of public transportation, making it straightforward to access for most visitors staying in or near Port Angeles. The tour operates rain or shine, so travelers should come prepared for varying weather conditions by bringing warm layers or water-resistant clothing.

Highlights of the Tour: Iconic Stops and Sights

Madison Creek Falls and Forest Trails

The tour kicks off with a short guided walk of 0.1 miles to Madison Falls, a picturesque cascade flowing through lush forest. Nearby, guests can explore forested trails that showcase the local greenery and moss-laden terrain. This stop offers a quick but rewarding introduction to Olympic’s lush environment.

Lake Crescent Lodge and Spectacular Views

Next, the tour visits Lake Crescent Lodge, established in 1916, for about 20 minutes. Here, visitors enjoy one of the best views of Lake Crescent, with the historic lodge adding a touch of early 20th-century charm. The tranquil waters and surrounding mountains create a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate Olympic’s serene landscapes.

Hike to Marymere Falls

The most active part of the tour involves a 2-3 mile guided hike led by a naturalist guide. The hike takes you through mossy forests and towering old-growth evergreens, crossing two scenic bridges near Barnes Creek. The highlight is the stunning 90-foot waterfall at Marymere Falls, where the lush surroundings and the roaring water make for an unforgettable scene. The hike is designed to be laid-back and manageable for most fitness levels, though the final incline and steps may be challenging for some.

Coastal Views at Salt Creek Recreation Area

The tour rounds out with visits to Tongue Point at the Salt Creek Recreation Area, known for its rugged coastal viewpoints. Here, the guide points out features of the historic WWII bunkers within the former Camp Hayden. This stop provides sweeping views of the rugged shoreline and ocean, offering a different perspective of Olympic’s diverse landscapes.

Round-Trip Transportation and Group Size

All transportation is included in a 12/15 passenger van, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey from Port Angeles. The small group setting not only fosters a friendly atmosphere but also allows guides to tailor the experience and answer questions comfortably. The tour’s maximum of 14 travelers maintains an intimate vibe, avoiding the crowds often found in larger tours.

Practical Considerations and Tips

This tour is designed for moderate physical fitness levels; guests should be prepared for some walking and light hiking. The weather can be unpredictable, so packing extra warm layers and water-resistant outerwear is advisable. The tour runs rain or shine, and cancellations due to weather are not permitted, so flexibility is key.

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, and those with mobility issues should consider the hike’s terrain and incline. The duration of approximately 4 hours makes this an ideal half-day outing, especially for visitors who want to combine sightseeing with some light outdoor activity.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

Unlike longer or more intensive excursions, this half-day tour balances scenic sightseeing with light activity, making it accessible for a broader range of visitors. The focus on Olympic’s best viewpoints, waterfalls, and coastal sights makes it a well-rounded experience in a compact timeframe.

The expert guides, praised for their knowledgeable explanations and friendly demeanor, significantly enhance the experience. They provide context about each location’s natural features, history, and ecology, enriching the trip beyond just sightseeing.

Who Would Most Enjoy This Tour?

This tour suits first-time visitors to Olympic National Park who want a taste of its highlights without committing to a full-day or multi-day trip. It’s particularly good for families, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxed pace with personalized attention. Those interested in waterfalls, coastal scenery, and forest landscapes will find plenty to enjoy.

Final Thoughts on the Olympic National Park Half-Day Tour

This guided tour from Port Angeles offers a compact, well-curated experience of some of Olympic National Park’s most beautiful spots. For $90, visitors gain easy access to famous waterfalls, historic sites, and coastal views, all with the comfort of round-trip transport and a small-group setting.

While it involves light hiking and some variable weather, the expert guides and diverse stops make it a valuable option for anyone looking to explore Olympic’s natural wonders efficiently. This tour is likely to leave a lasting impression, especially for those new to the park or short on time but eager to see its highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 4 hours, starting and ending in Port Angeles.

What is included in the price?
The price covers round-trip transportation, a professional naturalist guide, and visits to key sites like Madison Creek Falls, Lake Crescent, and Marymere Falls.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The hike is laid-back, but the terrain may be challenging for very young or mobility-impaired guests.

Do I need to be physically fit to join?
Yes, the tour requires moderate physical activity. Guests should be comfortable with light hiking and walking.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility in case of weather or schedule changes.

Is the tour operated rain or shine?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine. Come prepared with appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.