Olympic Peninsula: Ferry Day Trip & Rainforest Hikes from Seattle

Summary

Seattle ferry crossing, rainforest hikes, wild beaches and glacier lakes

You’ll ride a classic Seattle ferry across Puget Sound before hiking Hurricane Ridge’s alpine trails and wandering mossy forests near Crescent Lake. Explore tide pools along wild beaches if tides allow—and end your day watching sunset from the ferry deck as you head back toward city lights.

What’s the experience like?

The day kicked off way earlier than I expected—our guide, Mark, had this contagious energy even before sunrise. We piled into the van and rolled straight through still-sleepy Seattle to the ferry. I grabbed coffee (the galley’s not fancy but it does the job), then stood outside as the city shrank behind us and that salty Puget Sound breeze woke me up for real. It’s weirdly peaceful out there—just gulls and the low hum of engines and a few locals reading newspapers like it’s 1995.

Once we hit Bainbridge Island, things shifted fast from city to small-town. Mark pointed out old lumber buildings as we passed through Port Gamble (I think that was the name?), all weathered wood and these neat northeast-style roofs. Breakfast stop at a deli—honestly, their sandwiches are way better than I’d guessed—and then suddenly we’re winding up toward Hurricane Ridge. The air up there is sharp, almost sweet with pine, and there was still snow clinging to some edges even though it’s June. The hike along the ridge isn’t super long but man, those views—mountains stacked forever on one side, ocean haze on the other. I kept stopping just to stare (probably annoyed everyone behind me).

After that we dropped down to Crescent Lake where everything went quiet except for some crows arguing over crumbs near the lodge patio. Water so clear you can see tree trunks sunk deep below; I dipped my hand in and regretted it instantly—glacier water is no joke. Some folks rented kayaks but I followed Mark into the woods instead for a short walk to Marymere Falls. The path gets soft underfoot with all that moss, like walking on an old rug. There’s this moment where you hear nothing but water rushing ahead and your own boots crunching—it sticks with you.

If tides lined up right (they did for us), we ended up at Salt Creek beach poking around tide pools. Barnacles everywhere, little crabs darting sideways—I tried to show a kid how to spot sea stars but he already knew more than me. On the drive back everyone got quiet again until Mark broke out sodas from his cooler (and beer for whoever wanted). The last bit was sunset over Puget Sound on the return ferry—orange sky behind Seattle’s skyline coming back into view. That felt like a good kind of tired.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Olympic National Park full day tour

• Pick up from various landmarks
• Ferry ride to Bainbridge Island
• Pass through Winslow town
• Pass old lumber town
• Cross floating bridge, watch porpoises
• Stop for food at Longhouse deli
• Pass through gateway town to Olympics
• Hike one mile at Hurricane Ridge
• Visit tide pools or Dungeness Spit beach
• Explore Crescent Lake and old growth forest
• Hike to Marymere Falls
• Optional stop at Sol Duc Valley hot springs
• Optional visit to waterfalls and wildlife project
• Return ferry to Seattle, watch sunset

Top questions

How long is the Olympic Peninsula day trip from Seattle?

The tour lasts about twelve hours including travel time by ferry and van.

Does this Olympic tour include hotel pickup in Seattle?

Yes, pickup is included at central locations in Seattle before departure.

How much hiking is involved during this day trip?

You should be able to walk at least six miles over uneven ground throughout the day.

Are meals or snacks provided on this tour?

No full meals are included but there are stops at local delis for food; water, soda, and sometimes beer are provided in a cooler.

What should I bring for weather changes on this trip?

Bring layers of clothing plus extra socks; waterproof hiking boots are recommended since conditions vary between mountains, forest, and beach.

Will we visit beaches or tide pools during this Olympic Peninsula tour?

If tides allow, you’ll stop at Salt Creek Recreation Area or Dungeness Spit for beach walks and tide pool exploration.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

No; travelers need moderate fitness as terrain includes uneven surfaces and several miles of walking.

Are entry fees or park passes included in the price?

Yes, all landing and facility fees are covered as part of your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes central Seattle pickup by air-conditioned vehicle, round-trip ferry rides across Puget Sound, all park entry fees and landing charges, plus drinks from a stocked cooler along the way. Stops for meals are planned but food purchases are separate—expect deli breakfasts and plenty of chances to grab snacks before heading into Olympic wilderness with your guide.