Olympic National Park offers a stunning mix of ecosystems, from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines and alpine mountain tops. Its incredible eco-diversity makes it a prime destination for guided tours and self-exploration alike. We particularly love experiences that combine accessible natural beauty with knowledgeable guides or innovative self-guided options, like the Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour, which lets you explore at your own pace. Whether you’re after a leisurely walk through ancient forests or a scenic drive with fascinating commentary, Olympic NP has a tour for you.
One thing that makes these tours stand out is their focus on authentic, memorable experiences that suit different travel styles and physical abilities. For example, the Olympic National Park: Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach Tour offers a naturalist-guided hike and beach walk in a compact 9-hour day. Meanwhile, the 4-Day Backpacking Tour in North Coast provides an adventurous, multi-day experience for those seeking a deeper connection with the landscape. Below, we break down each tour to help you decide which best fits your style and interests.
1. Olympic National Park: Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach Tour
For around $160, this guided day trip offers a taste of Olympic’s famous rainforests and rugged coastlines. You’ll spend about 9 hours exploring two of the park’s most iconic landscapes. The tour kicks off with a 2-mile naturalist-guided hike through the moss-draped Hoh Rain Forest, where you’ll learn about the unique plant life thriving in this moist environment. The guides here are typically well-versed in the area’s ecology, making the walk both educational and engaging.
After immersing yourself among the ancient trees, the tour continues to Rialto Beach, where you’ll walk along the Olympic Wilderness Coast. The beach features striking sea stacks and driftwood sculptures, offering perfect photo opportunities. Roundtrip transportation is included, removing the hassle of navigating the winding park roads. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a balanced mix of rainforest walks and coastal scenery, without a strenuous commitment. The only potential downside is that 9 hours can feel long if you’re not a fan of long days, but most find it worth the effort for the diversity of sights.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for visitors seeking a comprehensive, relaxed day of exploring Olympic’s rainforest and coast in one go, with expert guidance enhancing the experience.
2. Olympic National Park: Sol Duc and Hurricane Ridge Tour
At $160 and just like the first, this 9-hour guided tour offers a fantastic way to see multiple highlights of Olympic National Park. It begins with a morning hike to Sol Duc Falls, where a naturalist will lead you on a 2-mile walk through lush old-growth forests. The scenery here is postcard-perfect, with the falls cascading through towering trees, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Afterward, you’ll visit Lake Crescent, where you can explore the shoreline from the historic Lodge and enjoy some time by the water. In the afternoon, the tour shifts to Hurricane Ridge, a subalpine area famous for panoramic views of mountain peaks and wildflower meadows. The trails here are accessible yet scenic, perfect for a gentle hike or photo stops. The guide’s insights about the park’s geology and wildlife add depth to your understanding of this diverse landscape.
This tour suits those who want a mix of waterfalls, lakes, and mountain vistas in a single day. Since it includes transportation and a knowledgeable guide, it’s a good value. Some travelers note that the focus on multiple sites makes for a busy day, but if your goal is variety, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers wanting to see diverse landscapes—from waterfalls to mountain vistas—with a guide to enrich your understanding.
3. Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Olympic National Park
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, this self-guided audio tour is an excellent choice. For just $19.99 per group (up to 8 people), you’ll receive a downloadable app that offers fascinating stories, local tips, and detailed directions. It’s suitable for a full-day adventure, roughly 8 hours, but flexible enough to leave some room for spontaneous stops.
The itinerary covers key attractions, including the most accessible mountain areas with stunning views and hiking trails and the temperate rainforest, where giant trees create a surreal atmosphere. You’ll also encounter the Dungeness Spit, a 5-mile-long sandbar with a lighthouse, and an active bird and marine life scene—perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.
Feedback from users highlights the app’s accuracy and engaging narration, though some note the volume could be better. It’s especially great for visitors with limited mobility or those who want the freedom to skip or linger at sites. This option offers tremendous value for independent explorers who enjoy planning their own trip and prefer a more personal experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those with mobility considerations, seeking a flexible, self-paced tour with rich commentary.
4. 4-Day Olympic Backpacking Tour in North Coast
For the serious adventure traveler, this 4-day backpacking trip offers an in-depth exploration of Olympic’s coastal wilderness. Priced at around $2,000, it’s a significant investment but provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience the epic rocky shores, tide pools, and sweeping vistas of the north coast.
Over four days, you’ll hike from the Olympic Forest to the shoreline, encountering wave-carved formations, rugged cliffs, and abundant marine life. The itinerary includes setting up camp at Sand Point, exploring tide pools, and traversing coastal forests. This trip is designed for fit and motivated travelers who want to connect intimately with nature, away from crowds and paved trails.
While reviews are not yet available, the itinerary emphasizes easy terrain with a focus on scenery rather than strenuous elevation gain. The trip includes logistics like gear and transportation, making it accessible even to those new to backpacking, provided they’re prepared for multi-day camping. It’s perfect for dedicated outdoor enthusiasts who crave a deep, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for experienced hikers or adventurous travelers willing to invest in a multi-day, off-the-beaten-path journey into Olympic’s stunning coastal landscape.
$2,000.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When deciding which Olympic National Park tour fits your style, think about your budget, time availability, fitness level, and interests. If you want a comprehensive day with naturalist expertise, the Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach Tour is a solid choice. For those seeking variety in a single day, the Sol Duc and Hurricane Ridge Tour offers a fantastic mix of waterfalls, lakes, and mountain views.
If you prefer custom exploration at your own pace, the self-guided audio tour provides flexibility and affordability, especially for travelers with mobility issues or limited schedules. For the true adventure-minded, the backpacking tour promises a deep dive into the rugged coastlines but requires physical stamina and camping gear.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months, to secure spots and get the best availability. Consider your travel companions’ interests and physical capabilities to choose the experience that will give you the most memorable Olympic National Park adventure.
Olympic National Park’s incredible landscapes are waiting—whether you want a guided day trip, a flexible self-guided drive, or a multi-day backpacking adventure. Each tour offers a unique way to experience this diverse wilderness, so pick the one that matches your travel style and start planning your visit today.