Seattle is a city built on the edge of extraordinary natural beauty. Its proximity to Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier makes it an ideal hub for exploring some of the most stunning landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re after rugged coastlines, ancient rainforests, or towering glaciers, Seattle-based tours offer hassle-free access, expert guides, and unforgettable scenery. We particularly love the all-inclusive Olympic National Park small-group tour, thanks to its naturalist guides and seamless logistics—perfect for those who want to relax and soak in the sights without the stress of planning.
If you’re considering a trip to these parks, know that options range from full-day adventures with private guides, like the Private Mt Rainier National Park Day Trip, to budget-friendly group tours that deliver incredible views and local insights. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the top 16 tours, each offering a unique way to experience the incredible landscapes just a short drive from Seattle.
1. Best of Olympic National Park from Seattle: All-Inclusive Small-Group Day Tour
At number 1, this full-day, all-inclusive tour takes the hassle out of visiting Olympic. With a naturalist guide leading you, you’ll explore beaches, mountains, forests, and ecosystems that many visitors never see. The itinerary is flexible, tailored to seasonal conditions, and includes round-trip transit from Seattle hotels, meals, and specialty gear. Passengers rave about the knowledgeable guides, like Brent and Marty, who make the day engaging and fun. Highlights include a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island, the Elwha River ecosystem, Lake Crescent, and possibly even Sasquatch sightings. This tour is perfect for travelers who want an immersive experience without the hassle of driving or organizing logistics. Bottom line: a superb choice for nature lovers and those wanting expert insight in a small group.
2. Best of Mount Rainier National Park from Seattle: All-Inclusive Small-Group Tour
Coming in at number 2, this full-day adventure offers a comprehensive look at Washington’s highest peak. From wildflower meadows to glaciers, the tour covers the key highlights with a naturalist guide who shares fascinating facts along the way. The itinerary includes scenic stops at Christine Falls, Narada Falls, and Paradise Valley, with options for guided hikes or snowshoeing depending on the season. Guests praise the guide’s knowledge, like Evan and Marty, and note the included snacks and a seasonal picnic lunch. At roughly $344, it’s a good value for a personalized experience that’s ideal for active travelers wanting to get close to the mountain’s grandeur. Bottom line: an excellent day trip for photographers, hikers, and mountain lovers.
3. Olympic National Park Day Tour from Seattle
Number 3 on our list, this full-day Olympic tour combines scenic ferry rides with guided visits to diverse ecosystems, including rainforests and subalpine forests. It’s a great option for visitors who want to see the highlights without renting a car. The itinerary features visits to Bainbridge Island, Port Gamble, and Lake Crescent, with about six miles of light hiking built in. Guides like Kevin and Nan are known for their engaging stories and flexibility—adapting to weather or park closures. The tour’s mix of transportation, sightseeing, and light activity makes it suitable for families and casual explorers. For a full immersion in Olympic’s natural beauty in one day, this tour hits the mark. Bottom line: a well-rounded, hassle-free option.
4. From Seattle: Mount Rainier National Park Guided Tour
Number 4, this guided tour is designed for those who want a relaxed, informative experience. Traveling aboard a climate-controlled minibus, you’ll explore key sites like Longmire, Christine Falls, and Paradise, with narration from your guide. The tour is suitable for all fitness levels and includes scenic stops, waterfalls, and lush forests. Guests appreciate the friendly guidance and the opportunity to learn about park ecology and history. It’s priced at around $198, offering a good balance of cost and convenience. Common feedback highlights the beautiful scenery and the engaging guides. Bottom line: perfect for travelers wanting a comfortable and educational day in the park.
5. Seattle: Olympic National Park Small-Group Tour
Number 5 features a small-group tour that focuses on the park’s rugged, wild landscapes. The intimate vibe allows for personalized attention, with opportunities to spot marine life and hike old-growth forests. Guides share insights into the park’s ecology and geology, making it ideal for curious travelers who want to learn as they go. The tour includes a beautiful lunch and snacks, making the day comfortable and satisfying. With a 4.9-star rating from 130 reviews, it’s clear that visitors love the tailored experience. Bottom line: an excellent pick for those who prefer a smaller group and in-depth exploration.
6. Olympic National Park Full-Day Tour W/ Scenic State Ferries
At number 6, this full-day adventure emphasizes the scenic ferry ride combined with select highlights like Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent. It’s a flexible, guided experience with stops for hiking and sightseeing. The inclusion of ferry transport and entrance fees makes it a straightforward day trip. Guests mention the stunning vistas from the ferry and the opportunity to see diverse ecosystems. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balance of transportation, scenic beauty, and gentle activity. Bottom line: a scenic, well-organized way to see Olympic’s top spots in one day.
7. Small Group Mt Rainier National Park Day Tour from Seattle 2CanGo
Number 7 features a small group tour that’s perfect for those who want a more intimate experience. For around $168, you’ll enjoy a day of hiking, sightseeing, and exploring Mount Rainier’s key sites like Longmire Museum and Narada Falls. The guide’s focus on flexibility and personal attention makes it suitable for travelers who want a less crowded, more personalized adventure. The tour’s shorter duration makes it appealing for those with limited time but still eager to see the mountain’s highlights. Guests reflect positively on the guide’s friendliness and the opportunity for great photos. Bottom line: a good choice for budget-conscious travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
8. Small Group: Olympic National Park Day Tour From Seattle
Number 8, this small-group Olympic tour emphasizes in-depth exploration of the park’s ecosystems like rainforests, lakes, and waterfalls. It’s tailored for travelers wanting a personal experience and knowledgeable narration. The tour includes visits to Lake Crescent, Marymere Falls, and Hurricane Ridge, with optional hiking depending on weather. Rated 4.6 out of 5, it’s a favorite for its friendly guides and flexible itinerary. Perfect for nature lovers who want to see a variety of landscapes in one day. Bottom line: a guided adventure suitable for those who want a deep dive into Olympic’s natural diversity.
9. Private Mt Rainier National Park Day Trip from Seattle
Number 9 offers a private experience tailored to your interests. For a steep price, about $2,305, you get a custom itinerary exploring Rainier’s highlights, including Reflection Lakes, Narada Falls, and the Jackson Visitor Center. This trip is perfect for those seeking exclusivity, flexibility, and personalized attention. Recent reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort and customization over cost. Bottom line: a luxurious, private way to experience Mount Rainier at your own pace.
10. Mount Rainier National Park Day Tour from Seattle
Number 10, this popular full-day tour is highly rated with 4.0/5 from 171 reviews for its reliable, scenic experience. It includes stops like Longmire, Christine Falls, and Narada Falls, with a focus on accessible sightseeing and photo opportunities. The tour is budget-friendly at $179, making it a good value for travelers who want the highlights without extra fuss. Guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see the mountain’s beauty in one day. Bottom line: a dependable choice for a straightforward, scenic trip.
11. From Seattle: Mount Rainier National Park 1-Day Tour
Number 11 offers a guided day trip focusing on key sights like Reflection Lakes, Longmire, and Narada Falls. It’s suitable for travelers who want to explore the park with a group, with flexible stops like hiking or snowshoeing depending on the season. The trip features scenic drives and plenty of photo stops, making it perfect for those short on time but eager for a comprehensive experience. Reviews praise the guide’s storytelling and the spectacular views. Bottom line: an excellent, quick way to experience Mount Rainier’s iconic landscapes.
12. Seattle: Twilight Tour and Olympic National Park
Number 12 combines Olympic National Park with a Twilight-themed visit to Forks, inspired by the film and book series. For lovers of the story and scenery, this unique tour includes a visit to the Cullen house, twilight spots, and rainforest areas. Priced at $395, it’s a good pick for those interested in pop culture along with natural beauty. The tour’s focus on film-inspired sites and a friendly environment makes it stand out. Bottom line: a fun, themed adventure for fans and nature lovers alike.
13. Small Group Olympic National Park Day Tour from Seattle 2CanGo
Number 13 offers a small group experience that covers most highlights like Hurricane Ridge, Crescent Lake, and Merrymere Falls. With about 8 to 10 hours, it’s a flexible option for those wanting to see a lot in one day. Guides like Jereme are praised for their professionalism and knowledge. The tour includes scenic drives, interpretive walks, and chances to see wildlife. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet intimate day in Olympic. Bottom line: a balanced mix of scenery and education.
14. Mt. Rainier National Park Day Tour from Seattle
Number 14, this popular full-day tour is perfect if you want to maximize your time at Mount Rainier. With over 2,700 reviews and a 5-star average, it offers visits to Longmire, Paradise, and Narada Falls. It includes lots of photo stops, engaging narration, and round-trip transportation. The value is strong at $189, especially given the extensive itinerary and reviews emphasizing the stunning scenery. It’s suitable for those who want a reliable, full day of sightseeing. Bottom line: a highly recommended way to see Rainier’s highlights in a single day.
15. 7-Day Small Group Tour: Canadian Rockies and National Parks
Number 15 expands your horizons beyond Washington, offering a 7-day journey through Kamloops, Jasper, Banff, and more. Although it departs from Seattle, it’s a comprehensive way to see Canada’s spectacular mountain scenery, including Glacier National Park and Whistler. With options for camping or hotels, it caters to different travel styles. This tour is best suited for travelers with a week to spare and a love for multi-national wilderness. Expect stunning lakes, wildlife, and mountain vistas. Bottom line: a fantastic, extended option for those craving a big adventure.
16. From Seattle: Olympic National Park Full Day Tour
Topping off the list at number 16, this full-day Olympic tour offers an efficient way to see prime landscapes. The tour includes a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island, visits to Lake Crescent and Marymere Falls, and scenic drives through the park’s diverse terrains. It’s rated 5/5 for its compact but rich itinerary, making it ideal for travelers with limited time who want a well-rounded day. The tour strikes a good balance between scenic drives, light walks, and expert commentary, perfect for those wanting to maximize a single day. Bottom line: a dependable, scenic introduction to Olympic.
$550 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For example, if you’re after a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience with expert guides, the Best of Olympic National Park or the Mount Rainier guided tour might suit you best. If you prefer a more private, customizable trip, the Private Mt Rainier is worth the splurge.
For those on a budget or with limited time, options like the small-group tours or full-day Olympic adventures deliver great scenery without breaking the bank. Planning your trip during spring wildflower blooms or autumn foliage can enhance your experience, but always check for seasonal closures or weather conditions.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular tours. Consider whether you want a guided hike, scenic ferry ride, or a private vehicle—each offers a different flavor of the region’s stunning landscapes.
Final Thoughts
Seattle’s proximity to Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier provides a treasure trove of outdoor adventures. Whether you opt for a comprehensive all-day tour, a small-group exploration, or a private custom trip, there’s something for every traveler. For those who value comfort and expert storytelling, the Olympic National Park small-group tour and Mount Rainier guided tours shine. Budget travelers and outdoor enthusiasts might prefer the shorter, more flexible options.
With such a range of excellent choices, planning ahead and booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re a photography buff, a hiker, or just someone who loves stunning scenery, these tours promise memorable days just a short hop from the city’s coffee shops and piers. Happy exploring!