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Pacific Northwest Escape: The San Juan Islands & Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park, Washington
8 Days
From $5595
Hiking and Kayaking
Pacific Northwest Escape: The San Juan Islands & Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park, Washington
8 Days
From $5595
Hiking and Kayaking
Trip Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the San Juan Islands and Olympic National Park. Beginning in Seattle, we’ll head north to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of the San Juan Islands. Spot iconic Pacific Northwest wildlife including whales, orcas, seals, otters and more along the way. Kayak to Orcas Island and hike to the summit of Mt. Constitution for sweeping views of the Puget Sound. Continue your journey to Olympic National Park, where we'll hike Hurricane Ridge, kayak Lake Crescent, and explore the mystical Hoh Rainforest. Conclude your Olympic exploration with coastal walks and tidepooling along Kalaloch and Ruby Beach and unwinding by Lake Quinault before we head back to Seattle. Maximum group size: 10
Highlights
- Sea kayaking from San Juan Island to Orcas Island with the chance to see iconic PNW wildlife: orcas, whales, seals, sea otters, bald eagles, and more!
- Hiking the tallest peak in the San Juan Islands, Mt. Constitution, followed by a dip in an alpine lake
- Experiencing the mystical Hoh Rainforest, known as one of the quietest places in the world
- Exploring the astounding diversity that is Olympic National Park: sandy beaches and shore-side cliffs; giant trees in the ancient temperate rainforest; and snow-capped peaks and mountain lakes
- Enjoying coastal walks and tidepooling along the Pacific Ocean
Inclusions
- 1-2 local guides based on group size
- Seven nights double occupancy lodging
- All meals with the exception of 2 dinners and 1 lunch
- All transportation starting on Day 1
- Entrance fees and permits to all parks
- Sea kayaks and kayak rentals
What's not included: Travel to and from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), 2 dinners and 1 lunch, travel insurance, alcoholic beverages, and AGC guide gratuity.
Trip Info
This trip is suitable for any woman who enjoys hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. This trip is rated a 2 which is designed for travelers with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy active adventures. These trips are suitable for anyone who has a regular exercise routine that includes walking, biking, swimming or other aerobic activities for 20-40 minutes 3 to 4 times a week. Rating: 1 [2] 3 4 5
On this adventure, we’ll immerse ourselves in the stunning and diverse environments of the Pacific Northwest through hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and cultural exploration. Our hikes will take us through lush old-growth forests, mossy groves, and rugged coastal landscapes, where we’ll encounter towering trees and the sounds of wildlife. Hiking will generally be low mileage and elevation gain, but may involve navigating rocks, roots, and short steep sections of trail. We’ll sea kayak from San Juan Island to Orcas Island in the San Juan Channel. Along the way, we’ll enjoy opportunities to spot marine life like seals, otters, and even orcas, while learning about the region’s rich ecosystems. The total trip will be about 8-10 miles, taking about 4 hours with a rest stop for a picnic dinner on a remote island between. In Olympic National Park, we will be kayaking several miles on the vibrant blue waters of Lake Crescent, surrounded by lush forests of towering conifers and old-growth forest. The trip is designed for all skill levels, with no prior kayaking experience needed, as we’ll provide instruction and support throughout.
To be able to experience the unique and diverse ecosystems that Washington offers, we will be moving around on this trip. We first make our way to San Juan Island before kayaking to Orcas Island. Both of these islands are surrounded by the serene waters of the Salish Sea, with breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. We will be staying on both islands in small, charming boutique hotels, providing a cozy, intimate experience amidst the natural island beauty.
From there, we will make our way to Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its diverse ecosystems. The park boasts temperate rainforests, rugged coastlines, alpine peaks, and crystal-clear lakes, all offering stunning backdrops for our adventure. We will stay at three historic lodges, each uniquely located to allow us to explore the natural beauty of this remarkable area.
On our final night of the trip, we will be staying at a boutique hotel conveniently located in downtown Seattle, offering easy access to explore the vibrant city. On the final morning, you’ll have the opportunity to wander through the iconic Pike Place Market, where you can experience the energy of the city, shop for fresh local goods, and enjoy a taste of Seattle's unique culture before heading home.
Trip Resources
Itinerary
Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.
DAY 1
Our adventure begins in Seattle near the airport, where our friendly guides will pick up our group at 10AM. From here we will start to make our way up north, taking a scenic drive through the verdant small farms of the Skagit Valley. Our first stop is Deception Pass State Park, consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful state parks in the USA. We will enjoy a picnic lunch taking in the views of the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. Next, we will hop aboard a private ferry to San Juan Island, where the journey itself becomes an unforgettable wildlife safari. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for orcas, seals, bald eagles, and sea birds as our captain navigates through these pristine waters. After settling into the charming town of Friday Harbor, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through this quaint waterfront village where you’ll have the chance to explore and try some local cuisine on your own before retiring for the night.
Included Meals: Lunch
Accommodations: Friday Harbor House or similar
Travel Time: Driving (2 hours), Ferry (1 hour 45 minutes)
Daily Activities: Wildlife boat ride to San Juan Island
DAY 2
Rise and shine on San Juan Island. This morning, we dive into the island’s rugged beauty and explore the dramatic cliffs and whale-watching vistas of Lime Kiln State Park, where orcas may even breach the waters just off shore. We’ll stroll through enchanting lavender fields and immerse ourselves in the island’s rich history at the scenic English and American Camps, stepping back in time to the days of early American settlers.
As the afternoon sun stretches across the sky, gear up for an epic sea kayaking adventure. We will paddle through the crystal-clear waters of the Salish Sea, journeying from the charming San Juan Island to the wild beauty of Orcas Island. As we glide past rugged shorelines and mist-shrouded cliffs, we’ll keep our eyes peeled for any orcas breaching or tail slapping on the surface, their sleek black-and-white bodies cutting through the water with power and grace. We might also encounter migrating whales, seals basking lazily in the sun, and curious sea otters floating on their backs, nibbling on shellfish. The skies above may be graced with the soaring flight of bald eagles, their keen eyes scanning the waters below. This unforgettable sea kayaking adventure offers us a front-row seat to the captivating wildlife and natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. This evening we’ll land on Orcas Island, ready to unwind and rest for the night at one of the island’s charming accommodations.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Outlook Inn or similar
Travel Time: Driving (45 minutes), Kayaking (~4 hours)
Daily Activities: Gentle Hiking, Cultural Exploration, Kayaking (~8-10 miles, ~4 hours with a rest stop for a picnic dinner)
DAY 3
Today’s adventure reaches new heights as we tackle the exhilarating hike up Mt. Constitution, the highest peak in the San Juans! Traverse trails lined with towering evergreens and ferns, stepping into the last remaining old-growth forest on the islands before reaching the summit, where you'll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the Puget Sound and its surrounding islands. After soaking in the breathtaking vistas, descend to the crystal-clear waters of Mountain Lake for a refreshing swim and let the serenity of the alpine waters recharge your spirit. This evening, we will visit Buck Bay Shellfish Farm where we will get to indulge in some local seafood while enjoying views of the sound. Afterwards, we will go on a short tour of the island to learn more about the shellfish industry and craft producers that are vital to the economy of this island.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Outlook Inn or similar
Travel Time: Driving (45 minutes)
Daily Activities: Hiking (4.8 miles, 787 feet elevation), Cultural Exploration
DAY 4
We start the day with a short hike up to another vista, getting a feel for the flora and fauna of the semi-arid ecosystem of Orcas Island. We will then make our way to Olympic National Park with our first stop being Hurricane Ridge. This ridge sits up at 5,200 feet giving you breathtaking views of jagged peaks, glaciers, and lush valleys. On clear days, the view stretches all the way to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Vancouver Island, an awe-inspiring sight that will take your breath away! After this mountain-top experience, we'll drive to the charming town of Port Angeles that is nestled between the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Tonight, you are on your own for dinner to be able to explore some local options. After dinner and some time to explore town, we will make our way to the serene shores of Lake Crescent, soaking in the beauty of this stunning landscape before settling in for a peaceful evening by the water.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Lake Crescent Lodge or similar
Travel Time: Driving (3.5 hours), Ferries (2.5 hours)
Daily Activities: Hiking (Orcas Island: 2.9 miles, 853 feet elevation; Hurricane Ridge: 3.4 miles, 826 feet elevation)
DAY 5
We will enjoy our morning coffee next to the peaceful Lake Crescent. This lake is one of the deepest in Washington and is quite picturesque with its vivid blue color surrounded by lush forests of towering conifers and old-growth forest. After enjoying a lakeside breakfast, we will make our way out onto the water to give us a different perspective of this tranquil getaway. After feeling revitalized with our time out on the water, we will hike Marymere Falls which is a breathtaking 90-foot waterfall nestled in the moss-covered forest and ancient trees. Afterwards, we’ll continue to go deeper into this magical national park.
Cited as being one of the quietest places on earth, and truly one of the “bucket-list” destinations in the park, the Hoh Rainforest allows us to step into an ancient time when our presence in the forest was guided by a need to hear but not be heard. Hoh means “whitewater,” an apt description for the boulder-strewn, braided ribbon of a river formed from the glaciers on Mt Olympus. We’ll stop at the Visitor Center on the Hall of Mosses Nature Trail and continue up the Hoh River Trail for lunch by the river, and with any luck, track down an elk herd along the way. Colonnades of spruce stretch toward the sky high above the canopy, big leaf maples spread out over green meadows, and lichens and mosses run wall to wall and floor to ceiling. In this silent forest, there is more biomass per acre than anywhere else on the planet. Inevitably, you will run out of adjectives for “green!”
Tonight, we will check into a cozy lodge where we can enjoy breathtaking views of driftwood-strewn beaches and the mighty Pacific Ocean.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Kalaloch Lodge or similar
Travel Time: Driving (3.5 hours)
Daily Activities: Hiking (Marymere Falls Hike: 1.7 miles, 314 feet elevation; Hall of Mosses: 1.1 miles, 82 feet elevation; Hoh River Trail: 3-5 miles, 300 feet elevation)
DAY 6
Wake up to the soothing sounds of the Pacific and step onto the dramatic Kalaloch Beach, where weathered driftwood and crashing waves create an unforgettable scene. Walk along the shore or simply find a quiet spot to sit and take in the rhythm of the ocean. Either way we will take time to appreciate the Tree of Life, a remarkable Sitka spruce growing directly out of a cliffside. This tree has become a symbol of resilience, surviving on minimal soil in a dramatic location.
Next, we will make our way to the iconic Ruby Beach, where sea stacks rise dramatically from the mist and tidepools teem with marine life. Stroll along the coastline, feeling the salty breeze on your skin, and take time to soak in the raw, untamed beauty of Washington’s rugged shores. Depending on low tide, we will go tidepooling on the search for starfish, sea anemone, crab, sea urchins, barnacles, and more.
As the afternoon unfolds, we’ll retreat to the elegant Lake Quinault Lodge, a historic lakeside sanctuary surrounded by towering evergreens. Enjoy a peaceful evening sipping wine on the veranda, unwinding with a fireside chat, or taking a stroll along the lake.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Lake Quinault Lodge or similar
Travel Time: Driving (45 minutes)
Daily Activities: Gentle Hiking, Tidepooling
DAY 7
Ease into the morning with a slow breakfast by the lake, where the mist drifts gently across the water and birdsong fills the air. Take an optional rainforest stroll beneath ancient trees, breathing in the crisp, oxygen-rich air of this temperate wilderness. We will be sure to make a visit to the world's largest Sitka spruce tree that is over 1,000 years old and is an incredible 58 feet in circumference.
Midday, we begin our return journey to Seattle, winding through picturesque landscapes and making a delightful stop in Olympia, Washington’s charming capital, for a farm-to-table lunch. Arriving back in the city, we will settle into one of Seattle’s finest boutique hotels.
As the evening unfolds, celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner at a renowned local restaurant, toasting to a week of adventure, connection, and unforgettable memories.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Edgewater Hotel or similar
Travel Time: Driving (3 hours)
Daily Activities: Hiking (3.9 miles, 364 feet elevation)
DAY 8
Savor your final morning in the Emerald City at your own pace—perhaps with a relaxed waterfront brunch, a stroll through the iconic Pike Place Market, or a visit to the dazzling Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit. Let the city’s vibrant energy and scenic beauty be the perfect finale to your Pacific Northwest escape.
We will meet back up after lunch around 1 PM and transfer to the airport as a group. You can plan to catch flights departing after 4PM with a heart full of inspiration, new friendships, and the lingering magic of the wild PNW landscapes you’ve explored the past week.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Travel Time: Driving (45 minutes)
Daily Activities: Cultural exploration
Reviews
4.8
(22 reviews)
5
(17)
4
(5)
3
(0)
2
(0)
1
(0)
*These are the unfiltered reviews of women who have been on this trip in answer to the question "What made this trip special for you?". We take reviews very seriously and often tweak itineraries based on feedback. Please feel free to contact us about any questions you have.
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Lois P.
5 years ago
Katie B.
5 years ago
Lois P.
5 years ago
Yes. It was my first trip with AGC and I will be going on other trips. The guides were great. The other women were great. I was comfortable spending time with everyone. I was glad I was able to be in the slow hiking group so I didn't slow anyone down. The best hike was to Obstruction Point. Mountains are my favorite.
Linda K.
5 years ago
I enjoyed the variety of the hikes and also the kayaking that was included.
Maya L.
5 years ago
Excellent leaders, very nice group of women, varied itinerary.
Sarah K.
5 years ago
Good variety of activities. Good accommodations and food. Great guides
Lori K.
5 years ago
Third beach and Hurricane Ridge to Moose Lake hikes.
Bonny M.
7 years ago
Scenery and activity level. Did not expect to love kayaking so much! I went for the hiking and also found a new activity.
Sheila B.
7 years ago
I loved the meals together, the guides were amazing and full of knowledge! I always felt safe. The beautiful hikes in the rainforest and down to beach! We could have kayaked longer on Lake Crescent, I felt. The bay kayaking was a blast and we felt we were in qualified kayaking hands with Liz and Stephanie. We had one day where it was a little slow, but we probably needed the slow!
Carol F.
7 years ago
The hikes were the highlight of the trip for me - I loved hiking through the Douglas Fir forests, the mountains and to the ocean. The hikes were challenging and gave me a feeling of accomplishment when I finished them. The kayaking was also fun and I must admit that the accommodations and food well exceeded my expectations. The guides took very good care of us and made the trip fun - they even baked us a wild blackberry pie!
Michelle K.
7 years ago
The variety of environments was wonderful. On the coast hiking one day, and then later in the week in the mountains.
Karen I.
7 years ago
Challenging pace of activities, but not overwhelming. Good company. Great guides.
Lisa H.
7 years ago
The beautiful scenery, the diverse hikes and kayaking, and fabulous guides.
Barbara C.
8 years ago
Beautiful part of the country. Hiking was challenging but not overwhelming.
Julie B.
8 years ago
I really enjoyed having the local guide that knew the local fauna and flora. I also liked the variety of the trip.
Gwen E.
8 years ago
The hikes, just challenging enough! I was disappointed to miss the rafting, but I totally understand conditions.
Jane B.
8 years ago
The outdoors and the hikes were terrific. The group size required long waits and large vehicles.
Norine M.
8 years ago
It was an incredibly diverse trip. It could not have been better!
Colleen B.
8 years ago
The beach hike was great.
Christy D.
8 years ago
Where do I begin. The guides were great. All had excellent knowledge of the area and were very easy going. The weather was great. The hiking and kayaking had awesome views. There worst part was knowing I had to leave and go back to work!
Joanne F.
8 years ago
Highlights were: Crescent Lake Lodge hiking to sue and point guides amazing guides were both incredibly competent no idea they had never met -- they worked really well together, very profession. Every step of way they were taking care of us -- everything. There is always one in every group that doesn't fit in but did not happen on this trip -- wonderful levels. Kayaking was highlight for me -- many others liked the hiking more.
Susan G.
8 years ago
Dates & Prices
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Make It Your Adventure
Turn any trip into a private experience for your group, or let us design a custom itinerary just for you! Whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues, we’ll make your journey unforgettable.
Common Questions
We will be enjoying gourmet picnic lunches served family style. Breakfasts are typically at the lodges and dinners are a mix of local restaurants and meals at the lodges. You will be on your own for a few meals on this trip so that you can explore local food options.
We can accommodate vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-intolerant if we know well in advance. Although we can not guarantee a completely gluten-free diet, ie. If you’re severely allergic or if you have other significant dietary restrictions, please call the office before you register. If you’re vegan, you may want to bring some additional protein bars.
You only need to pay a single supplement if you want to guarantee you have your own room. Otherwise we’ll pair you up with someone and then switch roommates every time we switch lodging.
This is the perfect trip for new and more experienced kayakers who are comfortable in water. On Day 2 there will be instruction on safety and basic kayaking strokes. The guides are experienced kayak instructors and will teach you everything you need to know.
We will be doing some moderate hiking throughout this trip in both the San Juan Islands and Olympic National Park. We will also be going kayaking and sea kayaking on this trip so that we can have a new perspective of these beautiful places.
The Pacific Northwest, especially the San Juan Islands and Olympic National Park, is rich in diverse wildlife due to its varied ecosystems, from forests and wetlands to coastal shorelines. On this trip, you’ll have the opportunity to spot humpback whales, orcas, gray whales, harbor seals, sealions, sea otters, osprey, bald eagles, and other shorebirds. We will also go tidepooling along the Pacific on the search for marine life like sea stars, sea urchins, anemones, crabs, fish, and more.
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