Half Day Guided Tour of Olympic National Park

Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Olympic National Park has never been easier. This half-day guided tour whisks visitors away from the city and into the heart of nature, showcasing the park’s iconic viewpoints and trails. Travelers can expect a scenic minivan ride, a hike through ancient forests, and a visit to the stunning Marymere Falls – all led by knowledgeable guides. With a maximum group size of 14, this adventure offers a personalized experience that nature enthusiasts won’t want to miss. But what else can you expect from this immersive expedition?

Key Points

• The tour departs from Port Angeles, USA, which is about 3 hours from Seattle, and lasts for half a day.
• The tour takes visitors to Lake Crescent and the Marymere Falls hike, providing scenic views of glacial mountains and coastal rainforests.
• The tour is guided, with a maximum group size of 14 people in a minivan, and includes roundtrip transportation and gratuities.
• The tour is suitable for adults and children, but not wheelchair accessible, and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
• The tour has received an overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 20 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary.

Tour Overview

The half-day guided tour of Olympic National Park offers visitors a curated experience to explore two of the park’s most popular attractions.

The tour departs from Port Angeles, USA, and takes approximately 3 hours each way from Seattle. Guests will ride in a minivan with a maximum group size of 14 people.

The tour includes guided transport to Lake Crescent and a hike to the picturesque Marymere Falls. Priced from $90 per person, the tour is led by a commercially authorized guide and includes roundtrip transportation, gratuities, and breathtaking views of glacial mountains and coastal rainforests.

Itinerary Highlights

As part of the half-day guided tour, visitors will get to experience two of Olympic National Park’s most popular viewpoints.

The tour includes a hike up to three miles through ancient forests to reach the stunning Marymere Falls. Along the way, hikers will enjoy scenic views of the park’s glacial mountains and coastal rainforests.

The guided minivan transport allows visitors to sit back and take in the breathtaking scenery as they travel to the trailhead.

Whether you’re seeking a serene nature escape or an active outdoor adventure, this tour offers the perfect balance of sights and activity.

What’s Included

Commercially authorized tour guides accompany visitors on this half-day guided tour, providing roundtrip transportation in a 12/15 passenger van.

The tour package includes:

• Gratuities
• Meeting point at the Olympic Hiking Co. in Port Angeles, WA
• Ability to explore two popular viewpoints and hike up to three miles to Marymere Falls in Olympic National Park

The tour operates rain or shine, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Visitors should dress in layers and bring water-resistant outerwear to ensure they’ve an enjoyable and comfortable tour.

Additional Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this half-day guided tour of Olympic National Park.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so moderate physical fitness is required. Travelers should dress in layers and bring water-resistant outerwear, as the weather is weather-dependent.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour operates rain or shine, and cancellations due to weather aren’t permitted. However, travelers can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.

Traveler Reviews

Based on the 20 reviews examined, the tour has earned an impressive overall rating of 5.0 out of 5.

Highlights of the tour include:

1. Knowledgeable guides who provide informative commentary on the region’s natural wonders.
2. Breathtaking scenery, from glacial mountains to coastal rainforests.
3. Well-organized trips that accommodate delays and cater to families.

Travelers consistently praise the tour’s stunning viewpoints, engaging guides, and overall enjoyable experiences.

The tour’s perfect recommendation rate and industry award further attest to its quality, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Olympic National Park.

Explore Lake Crescent

Visitors begin their half-day Olympic National Park tour with a scenic drive to Lake Crescent, a glacial lake renowned for its striking turquoise waters.

At the lake’s edge, the guide points out the unique geology that gives the water its mesmerizing hue. Travelers have time to wander the lakeshore trails, admiring the reflections of the surrounding mountains.

The guide shares the lake’s history and ecology, highlighting its role as a habitat for rare species.

With its tranquil beauty and easy accessibility, Lake Crescent offers a perfect introduction to the park’s natural wonders.

Hike to Marymere Falls

From Lake Crescent, the tour guide leads hikers into the ancient forests of Olympic National Park, embarking on a scenic trail to Marymere Falls.

The 3-mile round-trip hike offers:

1. Captivating views of lush, mossy trees and ferns.
2. A gentle ascent alongside a cascading creek.
3. The grand finale – a 90-foot waterfall plunging into a serene pool.

The trail is well-maintained, making the hike suitable for most fitness levels.

Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares insights about the park’s diverse ecosystem and the significance of this old-growth forest.

Reaching the falls, hikers are rewarded with a breathtaking natural wonder.

Discovering Ancient Forests

As the hike to Marymere Falls concludes, the tour moves deeper into the park’s ancient forests, immersing visitors in a captivating world of towering conifers, vibrant mosses, and ferns that carpet the forest floor.

Visitors marvel at the sheer scale and age of the trees, some of which have stood for centuries. The guide explains the delicate balance of this temperate rainforest ecosystem, where sunlight filters through the lush canopy and the air is thick with the scent of damp earth.

The ancient forests offer a profound connection to the natural world and a sense of timelessness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provider encourages bringing snacks and water to keep you nourished and hydrated during the outdoor activities.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour provider’s policy prohibits bringing pets to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. Visitors should plan accordingly and make alternative arrangements for their pets during the tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Have an Emergency?

According to the tour details, travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund. In case of an emergency, the company doesn’t allow cancellations due to weather, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Is There Any Flexibility in the Tour Schedule?

The tour schedule is generally fixed, but the operator offers some flexibility. Guests can make modifications to the itinerary if needed, subject to guide availability and feasibility. However, cancellations due to weather are not permitted.

Can I Request a Private Tour for My Group?

Yes, the tour operator offers private tours for groups. Travelers can request a private tour for their group, which may allow more flexibility in the schedule and itinerary. Private tours are subject to availability and may incur additional fees.

Sum Up

Enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of Olympic National Park on this guided tour. Explore iconic viewpoints, hike to stunning Marymere Falls, and discover ancient forests – all within a half-day adventure. With roundtrip transportation and knowledgeable guides, this is an unforgettable outdoor escape for nature enthusiasts. Don’t miss the chance to experience the wonders of this magnificent park.