Olympic National Park Full-Day Tour W/ Scenic State Ferries

Exploring Olympic National Park: An Honest Look at the Full-Day Tour with Scenic Ferries

If you’re considering a trip from Seattle to explore the awe-inspiring landscapes of Olympic National Park, this full-day tour might catch your eye. It promises a mix of iconic sights like Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent, and Marymere Falls, all while including a scenic ferry ride across Puget Sound. We’ve gathered traveler reviews and tour details to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to see such diverse scenery— from mountain peaks to lush rainforests—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Plus, the inclusion of the ferry ride offers a unique perspective of Seattle’s coastline, adding a special touch to the day.

On the flip side, some reviews point out that the long hours on the bus can be tiring, and the scattered locations mean your time at each spot might feel a bit rushed. If you’re someone who values a relaxed pace and in-depth narrations, this might be a consideration.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a comprehensive taste of Olympic National Park without the effort of organizing multiple transportation legs — especially if you’re limited on time but eager to see nature’s grandeur firsthand.

Key Points

• Scenic Ferry Rides: The round-trip Bainbridge ferry offers beautiful views of Puget Sound and the Seattle skyline.
• Diverse Sights: From Hurricane Ridge’s mountain vistas to Lake Crescent’s bright blue waters, the tour covers a wide range of landscapes.
• Seasonal Adjustments: The itinerary changes depending on the weather and season, which is worth noting if you’re visiting in winter.
• Value for Money: For $189, you get park entry, guide service, ferry tickets, and transportation, making it a fairly good deal considering the sights.
• Time Management: Travelers praise the well-timed stops and ample opportunity to explore, though some mention the long bus rides.
• Mixed Reviews on Guide and Comfort: While many say guides are knowledgeable and friendly, others note that transportation, especially in overflow vehicles, can be cramped.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: From Seattle to Bainbridge Island

The tour kicks off early, with departure from Seattle at 7:15 am. You’ll board a boat to Bainbridge Island, a delightful way to start the day with about 45 minutes of stunning views of the Seattle skyline, mountains, and the water. The ferry ride is included, and traveler reviews highlight how scenic and peaceful this part of the journey is. Some mention that the ferry is a highlight itself, offering “great views on the ferry boat,” and a chance to feel like you’re truly escaping city life.

Olympic National Park: The Heart of the Day

Once on the island, the bulk of the day revolves around exploring the park’s core highlights. The itinerary varies depending on the season and weather conditions.

Hurricane Ridge: This is one of the main attractions, especially in the summer when hiking, picnicking, and mountain views are prime. Guides typically allocate around 75 minutes here, giving you enough time to take in panoramic vistas of the Olympic Mountains. During peak season, this spot is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts, with many reviews praising the “breathtaking views” and the guide’s insights.

However, it’s worth noting that if weather conditions turn unfavorable, the guide might substitute this stop with Ediz Hook or East Beach. This flexibility ensures safety but can disappoint those eager for mountain vistas during winter or rainy days. One traveler pointed out that Hurricane Ridge was closed due to weather, and the switch to Ediz Hook offered a different kind of scenic experience, with views extending across the water and opportunities to see seals and possibly orcas.

Lake Crescent: Formed during the last Ice Age, Lake Crescent’s bright blue waters are a true spectacle. The quick 30-minute stop isn’t enough for a swim, but it’s perfect for photos and admiring the peaceful scenery. Many reviews mention that seeing Lake Crescent alone makes the trip worthwhile, with one reviewer saying “the water’s color really is as stunning as the photos suggest.”

Marymere Falls: This 45-minute stop is a favorite among visitors who enjoy a gentle hike through temperate rainforest. The lush mosses, ferns, and towering Douglas firs create a magical vibe. Reviewers share that this part of the trip is “worth the effort,” especially if you’re a fan of rainforests and waterfalls. The ecosystem here is unique outside Olympic, thanks to the climate and conservation efforts.

The Scenic Ferry and Return Journey

After exploring the park, it’s back to Bainbridge Island for the return ferry to Seattle. Many enjoy this part of the trip as it offers a different perspective of the city and the water. Some reviews mention it’s “a beautiful way to end the day,” though others note that the ferry schedule can be busy, and missing the scheduled return might mean waiting for the next.

In winter months, or if Hurricane Ridge is closed, the itinerary shifts to visits like Ediz Hook and East Beach. Ediz Hook, a long peninsula with views of the Olympic Mountains, is often praised for its wildlife sightings, including seals and birdlife, and the chance to see Canada in the distance. East Beach provides a relaxing end to the day, especially during summer, with picnic spots, volleyball courts, and ocean views.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $189, the tour offers quite a bit of value: park entrance fees, ferry tickets, transportation, and a professional guide. This means no extra costs on the day for entry or travel, which can add up if you try to do it on your own. The guide’s knowledge is frequently praised—traveler reviews highlight friendly, informative guides who make the day more engaging.

However, food and drinks aren’t included, so packing a lunch or snacks is advisable. Some reviews mention that the long travel hours mean you’ll want to bring water and a good pair of shoes. The tour is also quite structured, with specific time slots, so if you’re someone who prefers a leisurely pace or more hiking, this might feel a bit rushed.

Comfort and Transportation

One of the less positive points from reviews concerns the transportation. Some travelers comment that the vehicles can be cramped, especially if you’re in an overflow vehicle. This can be uncomfortable during a long day, and the sound quality of guide commentary might suffer if the vehicle isn’t well equipped. The tour operator does attempt to accommodate different needs but warns that during busy seasons, vehicles fill up quickly.

Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, but a few mention that explanations can be hard to catch if spoken quickly or in noisy vehicles. If you’re sensitive to comfort or require more legroom, consider this when booking.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is perfect for nature lovers who want to see a big chunk of Olympic National Park in one day. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but crave a taste of mountains, lakes, and rainforests. It works well for travelers who enjoy guided tours and don’t mind a long bus ride, as many reviews mention the day is quite packed and involves several hours on the road.

If you’re traveling solo, couples, or small groups looking for an easy, organized adventure, this tour can be a good fit. However, if you prefer more in-depth hiking or a slower pace, you might find the itinerary a bit hurried. Also, those with special comfort needs should consider the vehicle conditions, especially if they are prone to discomfort on long drives.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 10 to 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening. Expect plenty of time on the bus with stops at key sites.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers park entry, ferry tickets, transportation, and a professional guide. Food, drinks, and personal expenses are not included.

Can I change the itinerary?
Yes, depending on weather or road conditions, the guide may substitute certain stops like Hurricane Ridge with Ediz Hook or East Beach.

Is the ferry ride scenic?
Absolutely. The round-trip ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge offers lovely views of the coastline, mountains, and city skyline.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, cash or cards for personal expenses, and hydration are recommended.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, it suits travelers who enjoy easy walks and scenic views. Check with the operator if you have young children.

What if Hurricane Ridge is closed?
You’ll visit Ediz Hook and East Beach instead, which offer different but equally interesting scenery.

How crowded are the vehicles?
During peak season, vehicles can be full, and some might be overflow vehicles, which could get cramped.

Is there enough time at each stop?
Most reviews say yes, with well-planned timing, though some mention the long hours on the bus can be tiring.

What if I want more hiking?
The tour offers limited hiking time, mostly for quick explorations or short walks. If you want extensive hikes, consider separate options.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Olympic National Park tour offers a convenient way to see some of Washington’s most stunning landscapes without the stress of planning every detail yourself. It’s especially suitable for those pressed for time but eager to experience the park’s diversity—from mountain peaks to lush rainforests and sparkling lakes.

You’ll benefit from the knowledge of friendly guides and the beauty of the ferry ride, which adds a special touch. Keep in mind, the long travel hours and scattered locations mean you won’t have unlimited time at each stop, but if you’re okay with a busy day and love seeing lots of scenery, this tour delivers on that front.

For travelers who want a straightforward, guided experience with good value and breathtaking sights, this trip ticks many boxes. Just pack your patience, bring snacks, and prepare for a day full of natural beauty.