4-Day Olympic Backpacking Tour in North Coast

Planning a trip that combines stunning coastal scenery, wilderness adventure, and the thrill of navigating tide pools? The 4-Day Olympic National Park North Coast Backpacking Tour might just be the experience you’re after. Offered by Lasting Adventures, this trip takes travelers along some of the most scenic and rugged shorelines in the Pacific Northwest, making it ideal for those looking to step beyond the typical national park visit and truly enjoy wilderness.

What immediately grabs us about this tour is its focus on authentic coastal exploration—hiking along rocky shores, discovering tide pools, and camping under the stars in near-pristine surroundings. We also appreciate that the tour provides all essential gear, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the journey without the hassle of packing and logistics.

That said, this adventure is definitely not for everyone. With a moderate physical fitness level required and some rocky, uneven terrain, it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with moderate hiking and outdoor conditions. The price point ($2,000 per person) reflects the guided experience, gear, and meals, but it’s worthwhile considering the value of such an immersive experience in a remote, awe-inspiring setting.

If you’re craving an active, nature-filled escape with a focus on coastal scenery and wilderness mastery, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic Coastal Exploration: Traversing rugged beaches, tide pools, and rocky headlands at some of the most northwestern points in the continental US.
• All-Inclusive Gear and Guides: Use of camping and hiking equipment, plus professional outdoor educators.
• Moderate Physical Challenge: Suitable for those with decent fitness, comfortable with uneven terrain and day-long hikes.
• Stunning Scenic Highlights: Cliffs, sea stacks, tide pools, and pristine beaches dominate the views.
• Taste of Wilderness Camping: Three nights camping in the wilderness, with campfire evenings and spectacular sunsets.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 5) ensure personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Diving Into the Itinerary

Day 1: Starting at Rialto Beach and the Ozette Trail

Your adventure begins at Rialto Beach, where you’ll meet your guides and fellow travelers at the parking lot. Expect a thorough introduction to the trip logistics, gear, and safety tips. The shuttle ride to the Ozette Trailhead takes about an hour 45 minutes, giving you time to start soaking in the scenery—dense mossy forests and misty coastlines—before your first hike.

The 3-mile walk to Sand Point Campground is relatively gentle, mostly on boardwalks through coastal forests. The terrain is easy enough to enjoy without feeling rushed, and the lush greenery provides a nice contrast to the rugged coast ahead. Camp here for your first night, with a chance to settle into the wilderness and enjoy some star-gazing if the weather permits.

Day 2: Coastal Exploration and Tide Pool Discovery

Waking up with the sun, you’ll be greeted by the sound of waves and the fresh scent of salt air. After a hearty guide-prepared breakfast, you’ll walk along the beach toward your first tide restriction. If the tide is low enough, you’ll get to explore Yellow Banks, famed for its incredible tide pools brimming with marine life. The optional cliff tunnel adds a bit of adventure, giving you a chance to navigate through a natural rock formation.

The guide will assist with rocky terrain navigation, ensuring safety while you take in the mesmerizing sea stacks and marine ecosystems. Expect to encounter pools teeming with starfish, anemones, and crabs. This part of the trip emphasizes learning about the coastal environment while enjoying the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Day 3: Conquering Headlands and Secluded Beaches

This is the most challenging stretch, covering about six miles of dramatic coastline. The route includes navigating cliffs, tide pools, and boulder fields—a true test of your outdoor skills. The highlight is reaching Cape Johnson, a stunning spot where sheer cliffs plunge into the sea, and the views stretch for miles.

Your guides’ expertise is invaluable here, helping you safely negotiate rocky obstacles and find the best spots for photo ops. You’ll enjoy a well-earned break at Chilean Memorial Camp, perched on a secluded beach overlooking the ocean. As you set up camp, the sunset paints the sky in fiery hues, perfect for reflective moments after a day of conquering nature’s obstacles.

Day 4: Wrapping Up at Rialto Beach

On your final day, you’ll traverse back along the coast, passing through iconic spots like Hole in the Wall—a famous sea arch. Marvel at the tide pools around the stacks and the crashing waves, while looking out for pelicans and other seabirds. The last stretch ends at Rialto Beach, where you can relax and take in the scenery one last time.

The 3.6-mile walk along the coast offers a fitting finale to your wilderness adventure, with the fresh ocean breeze and spectacular vistas leaving a lasting impression.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Scenic Diversity: From lush forests to rugged cliffs and tide pools, the route offers a variety of breathtaking sights. We loved the way each day brought a new aspect of coastal wilderness into view.

Expert Guidance: The presence of experienced guides ensures safety navigating rocky headlands and tide pools, plus valuable insights into the local ecosystem. This support makes the experience accessible even for those new to coastal hiking.

All Equipment Provided: Gear such as backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and trekking poles are included, which is a major plus for travelers who prefer to travel light or don’t own camping gear.

Small Group Size: With a maximum of five travelers, the experience feels personalized and intimate. You’ll benefit from attention and tailored advice from guides who are passionate about the area.

Learning and Adventure: Mastering tide tables, planning around tide schedules, and conquering headlands makes this trip more than just a hike—it’s an education in coastal wilderness survival.

The Practicalities and Price

At $2,000 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes guiding, gear, and meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner for three days). While the price is on the higher end, it’s justified by the quality of the experience, the expert guides, and the remote nature of the trip.

The tour involves moderate physical activity—mainly walking over uneven, rocky terrain and some elevation changes—but is suitable for those with decent fitness levels. The inclusion of all gear reduces the hassle of packing, and the small group size enhances the overall value.

Important to note: The trip requires an Olympic National Park entrance fee of $30 per vehicle, which is not included in the tour price.

Transportation & Timing

Transportation from Rialto Beach to the trailhead is provided by Lasting Adventures, so you won’t have to worry about logistics once you arrive. The day starts at 10:00 am, giving you plenty of morning to settle in and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Cancellation & Weather

You can cancel up to six days before the tour for a full refund, giving some peace of mind in case plans change. Also, the tour depends on good weather—if poor conditions force cancellation, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for nature lovers who enjoy moderate hiking, coastal scenery, and camping. It’s ideal for those comfortable with rocky terrain and tide pool exploration, and who seek an authentic wilderness experience.

Travelers looking for a small-group, guided tour will appreciate the personalized attention and expert advice from guides. It’s also perfect for adventurers eager to learn about coastal ecosystems and master tide navigation.

The Sum Up

The 4-Day Olympic National Park North Coast Backpacking Tour offers a rare chance to explore some of the most dramatic and pristine shoreline in the United States. With its combination of rugged coastlines, tide pools, and remote beaches, it creates a rich, immersive outdoor experience. While it demands moderate fitness and a flexible attitude, the stunning vistas and sense of accomplishment make it well worth the effort.

If you’re craving an adventure that goes beyond typical sightseeing and want to get your hands dirty (or salty), this tour delivers authentic, memorable moments amidst wild, untouched landscapes.

This experience is best for the adventurous, nature-inclined traveler who values guided expertise, small groups, and a true connection with wilderness. The combination of stunning scenery, educational opportunities, and camping under the stars makes it a compelling choice for your next Pacific Northwest outing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness, it involves navigating rocky and uneven terrain, so some hiking experience or comfort with outdoor conditions is recommended.

What gear is included?
All essential camping and hiking gear, such as backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, trekking poles, and eating utensils, are provided. You only need to bring your personal items and clothing.

How challenging are the hikes?
The hikes involve some rocky obstacles, tide pools, and headlands, with a total of up to 6 miles on the most strenuous day. Guides assist with navigation and safety.

What meals are provided?
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included for each day of the trip, prepared by your guides. They aim to sustain you through the adventure with hearty and practical food.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Available in summer and early fall (June to September), the tour’s success depends on good weather and favorable tide conditions, which can vary by date.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the physical demands suggest it’s suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level—probably teens and adults. Always check with the tour provider if traveling with children.

Do I need a park entrance pass?
Yes, an Olympic National Park entrance fee of $30 per vehicle is required, which is not included in the tour price.

How many people will be in my group?
The tour caps at a maximum of five travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

Embark on this coastal adventure to witness some of the Pacific Northwest’s most breathtaking landscapes, and enjoy the rare opportunity to connect deeply with nature’s raw beauty.