For Families: Discover the Olympics
Trip Summary
Spend six days exploring the wonders of Washington's Olympic National Park, home to sprawling glaciers, mountains reaching almost 8,000 in elevation, abundant and thriving wildlife, old growth forests, more than 600 miles of trails, and hundreds of culturally significant archeological sites. The Olympics also offer endless outdoor recreation opportunities for kids and adults: Hike through rainforests, visit waterfalls, soak in hot springs, explore the coast's tidepools and sea stacks, and paddle through calm waters.
Most important, this is the perfect opportunity to spend intentional time together and grow closer as a family. Experienced Adventure Treks guides will accompany you every step of the way!
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive & day hike in Olympic National Park
Our adventure begins in Olympia, WA, where our guides will pick you up and begin the drive to Olympic National Park. This afternoon, we'll take a hike to a beautiful "three-prong" waterfall in an old-growth forest, become acquainted with our group, and enjoy all the surrounding scenery. That night, families will celebrate with our traditional "Yahoo!" dinner feast.
- Meals: Lunch, dinner, & snacks
- Lodging: Tent camping at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Day 2: Day hike & sea kayak
A multitude of adventures await on day two. We'll start with a sunrise sea kayak in Port Angeles, known for calm waters, vibrant marine life from colorful sea stars to curious harbor seals, and views of the Olympics.
After lunch, we'll embark on a day hike at Hurricane Ridge, one of the most iconic areas in the Olympics with long-range, 360° views of surrounding snowy peaks (including the famous 7,980-foot Mt. Olympus) and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, densely forested valleys, and turquoise alpine lakes. Multiple trail options are available for varying hiking abilities. This is arguably one of the most beautiful places to hike in Washington.
Today's inclusions:
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, & snacks
- Lodging: Tent camping at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Day 3: Explore the Olympic coast
Adventure Treks students have been exploring the Olympic Peninsula for more than 30 years, and it's one of our favorite places in the world. Huge sea stacks rise sharply from the Pacific, with lush forests and pristine beaches lining the shore. Rialto Beach's pebbly coast and uniquely shaped driftwood allows many opportunities to watch for otters, seals, bald eagles, and even gray whales.
We'll hike along the shores to Hole-in-the-Wall (see gallery photo for how it got its name!), where everyone will love exploring the tidepools teeming with marine life. Often considered one of Washington's best beach hikes, you'll walk alongside, through, and between hulking sea stacks. During low tide, you'll find colorful starfish, spiky sea urchins, sea anenomes, and scuttling crabs. A picnic lunch here will feel well-earned!
Today's inclusions:
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, & snacks
- Lodging: Tent camping at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort
Days 4–5: Overnight hike on the Olympic Peninsula
Today we'll head back to the Oly P for a two-day, one-night backpacking trip. You'll get the best of both worlds, as you'll walk through old-growth forests and hike along the beach! Hike past lakes and rivers before hopping on a boardwalk winding through dense red cedar and other evergreens. This path takes us to the beach, where we'll listen to sea lions barking in the distance as bald eagles fly overhead on our walk. We'll also have the privilege of passing by ancient petroglyphs at Wedding Rocks, carved by the Makah tribe. Enjoy a seaside dinner with the most unforgettable sunset of your life.
Supplemental activities include:
- Taking an afternoon canoeing or kayaking tour on Lake Quinault's calm waters (day five)
Today's inclusions:
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, & snacks
- Lodging:
- Day 4: Tent camping (many campsites have rustic outhouses)
- Day 5: Lake Quinault Lodge
Day 6: Morning activities & depart
We'll take full advantage of our final morning together, with options like a sunrise beach hike, walk through Quinault Rain Forest to gaze in wonder at the world's largest Sitka Spruce (at almost 200 feet tall and almost 60 feet in circumference!), or hop back in the boats for a paddle. This afternoon, we'll say goodbye to our new friends and drive back into Olympia for drop-off.
- Meals: Breakfast
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