Olympic National Park is a vast, diverse wilderness that rewards travelers willing to spend several days exploring its forests, mountains, and coastlines. Unlike quick day hikes, these 4-day tours allow you to learn about different facets of the park, from its towering peaks to its rocky shores. Whether you’re craving rugged backpacking trips through lush old-growth forests and high alpine lakes or seeking an intimate experience exploring remote coastal regions, Olympic National Park offers options for all types of adventurers.
These tours stand out for their unique itineraries, focus on specific regions, and immersive experiences. They are perfect for those who want more than just a quick peek and are ready to carry a backpack or camp under the stars. To help you decide, we’ve compiled the best 4-day tours that showcase the park’s diversity, ranging from backpacking through Sol Duc and Seven Lakes to coastal exploration along the North Coast.
1. 4-Day Olympic Backpacking – Sol Duc and the Seven Lakes Basin
At number one on our list, this backpacking trip takes you into the heart of Olympic’s most scenic regions. The journey begins at the Sol Duc Campground, where you’ll meet your guide and gear up for four days of exploration. You’ll hike past the iconic Sol Duc Falls, known for its striking cascade, and then traverse the Seven Lakes basin, famous for its glacial lakes and vibrant wildflowers.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Olympic’s largest collection of glacial lakes and high alpine vistas. You’ll trek through old-growth forests and encounter wildlife like marmots and mountain goats. The itinerary includes camping at high-altitude lakes, offering outstanding photo opportunities and a chance to experience the park’s tranquility. The 8-hour hikes on days two and three are challenging but rewarding, with sweeping views of snow-capped peaks and lush forests.
The trip is well-suited for those comfortable with multi-hour hikes and camping. Since it costs about $2,000 per person, it offers great value considering the comprehensive experience and expert guiding. The only downside is the lack of reviews, but the detailed itinerary suggests a highly immersive, physically engaging trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for avid hikers seeking a multi-day trek into Olympic’s most iconic mountain scenery, with top highlights like Sol Duc Falls and wildflower-filled lakes.
2. 4-Day Olympic Backpacking Tour in North Coast
Number two on our list ventures to the remote North Coast region of Olympic National Park. This trip offers a different kind of adventure—the opportunity to explore coastal forests and reach the rugged beaches, where wave-carved rocks and tide pools create a dramatic backdrop. Starting at Rialto Beach, the tour features a shuttle to Ozette Trailhead and a manageable 3-mile hike to Sand Point Campground, where you’ll stay right on the shoreline.
The highlight of this tour is the chance to walk along the beach, with opportunities to see tide pools teeming with marine life, and explore rock formations seen in movies. The itinerary emphasizes coastal wilderness rather than mountain peaks, making it ideal for those more interested in the ocean’s raw power. The trip includes careful planning for a comfortable and scenic camping experience.
While the tour doesn’t include strenuous elevation gains, it is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed pace and a focus on coastal ecology. The price remains at $2,000, which is reasonable for the length and uniqueness of the experience. The absence of reviews means you’ll want to rely on the detailed itinerary to assess fit.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want to experience remote coastal forests and beaches without heavy hiking, and enjoy marine scenery and tide pools.
How to Choose Your Olympic Park 4-Day Tour
When selecting between these options, think about your interests and fitness level. The Sol Duc and Seven Lakes trip offers mountain vistas, alpine lakes, and extensive hiking—ideal for those craving mountain scenery and physical challenge. Meanwhile, the North Coast tour emphasizes coastal landscapes and exploring tide pools, perfect for nature lovers who prefer gentler terrain and ocean views.
Budget-wise, both tours are priced similarly at $2,000 per person, which includes guiding and camping gear. Consider your preferred landscape—mountains or coast—and whether you want to carry a pack through rugged terrain or enjoy more relaxed beach walks. Don’t forget to check trip logistics like camping styles and daily hike durations.
Booking early is advisable, especially during the park’s peak months from late spring to early fall. These tours fill quickly due to their focused itineraries and small group sizes, so reserve well in advance.
To sum it up, whether you’re drawn to towering peaks and alpine lakes or rugged coastal cliffs, Olympic National Park offers exceptional 4-day adventures. For hikers eager for a mountain trek, the Sol Duc and Seven Lakes Basin trip promises an immersive experience. If coastal scenery is more your style, the North Coast tour presents a perfect blend of tide pools, rocky beaches, and old-growth forests.
For travelers seeking a well-rounded Olympic experience, these tours provide a great starting point. Remember to match your choice to your fitness level, interests, and preferred scenery. Early booking will help ensure a spot in these popular and rewarding excursions.