The 2 Best National Park Tours in Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park offers a stunning variety of landscapes, from lush rainforests and rugged coastlines to snow-capped mountains. Its diverse ecosystems make it a prime spot for guided tours that reveal some of the most breathtaking sights in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a nature lover, a hiker, or just eager to spend a day exploring, Olympic offers options that combine ease with authentic outdoor experiences. Here, you’ll find guided trips that focus on iconic highlights like the Hoh Rain Forest, Rialto Beach, Sol Duc Falls, and Hurricane Ridge.
These tours are designed for different interests and fitness levels, with experienced guides sharing insights about the park’s ecology and history. Booking in advance is recommended, as these popular excursions tend to fill up quickly. Now, let’s take a closer look at the best guided options available.
1. Olympic National Park: Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach Tour
At number one on our list is the Olympic National Park: Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach Tour. For $160 per person, this 9-hour trip offers a fantastic introduction to Olympic’s eco-diversity, blending lush rainforest scenery with rugged coastal beauty. The tour features a 2-mile naturalist-guided hike through the moss-draped Hoh Rain Forest, where you’ll learn about the lush, ancient trees and the park’s unique climate. The guide shares insights about the ecosystem, making it an engaging experience for nature enthusiasts.
After exploring the rainforest, the trip continues to Rialto Beach, a wild stretch of Pacific coastline known for its sea stacks and driftwood. The roundtrip transportation makes it easy to relax and focus on the scenery. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a balanced day of forest and beach, with an emphasis on ecological education. The lively reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Daniel, who keeps guests engaged with their rich knowledge. One guest described it as “another fantastic trip” and “absolutely beautiful,” showing how well this tour resonates with visitors.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those looking to experience Olympic’s lush rainforests and dramatic coastline in one day, with expert guidance and comfortable transportation.
2. Olympic National Park: Sol Duc and Hurricane Ridge Tour
Ranking second is the Olympic National Park: Sol Duc and Hurricane Ridge Tour. For $160, this 9-hour adventure offers a mix of old-growth forest hikes and mountain vistas. It kicks off with a 2-mile guided hike to Sol Duc Falls, where you walk through towering trees and encounter the famous waterfall—an essential Olympic highlight. The guide’s insights into the park’s ecology and history enhance the experience, especially if you’re interested in learning about the region’s natural features.
Following the waterfall hike, visitors explore Lake Crescent from the historic Lake Crescent Lodge, enjoying shoreline views and a chance to relax by the water. The afternoon is reserved for subalpine trails and meadows atop Hurricane Ridge, where panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and alpine wildflowers await. Guides like Daniel bring over 25 years of experience, making this tour especially appealing for travelers who want a detailed, layered understanding of the park’s diverse landscapes.
Guests praise the trip for its “incredible” experiences and the guide’s knowledge. This tour suits active travelers eager for a full day of hiking and scenic exploration but still want the convenience of roundtrip transportation. Some may find the elevation change at Hurricane Ridge challenging, but the overall itinerary balances strenuous hikes with relaxing scenic stops.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors who want a comprehensive day covering waterfalls, lakes, and mountain trails, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
How to Choose
When deciding between these top Olympic National Park guided tours, consider your particular interests and travel style. If you’re captivated by rainforests and coastal scenery, the Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach Tour offers a balanced mix of lush greenery and ocean views and is perfect for those who want a relaxed day with ecological insights. Conversely, if your focus is on mountain landscapes and waterfalls, the Sol Duc and Hurricane Ridge Tour provides a more energetic, varied itinerary with opportunities for mountain hiking and exploring lakeside scenery.
Budget-wise, both tours are priced at $160, which offers good value considering transportation, expert guides, and the full-day experience. Think about your fitness level—hiking at Hurricane Ridge can be more strenuous than exploring Rialto Beach. Timing also matters: the rainforest tour is great year-round, while the hurricane and mountain hikes might be more scenic in late spring to early fall when the wildflowers bloom and the snow diminishes.
Booking early is smart, as these popular trips fill up quickly, especially in summer months. Check availability and start planning your Olympic adventure to ensure you don’t miss out.
Final Thoughts
Olympic National Park’s guided tours deliver a rewarding way to see some of its most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail. Both options—the rainforest and coast adventure and the mountain and waterfall excursion—offer unique perspectives of this diverse landscape. If you’re looking for a gentle introduction to the park, the Rialto Beach tour fits well. For those wanting a more active day in the mountains and forests, the Hurricane Ridge tour is perfect.
For families, nature lovers, or active hikers, these trips are a great way to maximize your time and learn from knowledgeable guides. Remember to book early, as these tours tend to sell out, especially in peak seasons. No matter which you choose, you’re in for a memorable day exploring one of the most varied national parks in the United States.