Sol Duc, Lake Crescent & Hurricane Ridge: Full-Day Guided Tour of Olympic National Park
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9 hours (full day)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for short hikes (2 miles at Sol Duc, up to 3 miles on Hurricane Ridge) and periods of standing; able to hike uneven terrain.
Overview
Drive the Elwha Valley, stand beneath Sol Duc Falls, peer across the glacier-carved depth of Lake Crescent, and ascend to wind-polished views on Hurricane Ridge in a single, expertly guided nine-hour loop through Olympic National Park.
Sol Duc, Lake Crescent & Hurricane Ridge: Full-Day Guided Tour of Olympic National Park
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On a damp morning in Port Angeles the van eases out of town and the world changes by the mile. The road first threads the Elwha Valley—cedar and fir hanging heavy with moss—then skirts Lake Crescent, its glass surface suddenly cut by a gull or wind and the mountains hemming it in like a folded page. The guide slips into naturalist mode: basalt and glaciers, human histories, and a practical warning to zip your jacket—the ridge waits.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers and bring a rain shell
Mountain weather changes fast—waterproof outerwear and a warm midlayer will keep you comfortable from sea level to 5,242 ft.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Trails include wet boardwalks, rooty forest paths, and rocky ridge footing—supportive footwear is important.
Bring water and snacks
Although the tour includes breaks, carry at least 1–2 liters of water and energy snacks for the hikes.
Charge your camera and bring a wide-angle lens
Wide lenses capture the lake basins and ridge panoramas; extra batteries or a power bank are useful in cold weather.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Black-tailed deer
- Bald eagles and waterfowl on Lake Crescent
History
The Olympic Mountains are home to Coast Salish peoples—Lower Elwha Klallam and others—whose traditional territories include these valleys and shorelines; Lake Crescent’s lodge dates to the early 20th century when tourists first arrived by road and steamer.
Conservation
The Elwha River restoration and other park projects emphasize habitat recovery; visitors are asked to stay on trails and pack out waste to protect fragile subalpine meadows and old-growth forest.
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Adventure Hotspots in Port Angeles, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Good traction and ankle support help on wet, rooty forest trails and rocky ridge paths.
Waterproof rain shell
Protects against coastal and mountain showers—packable and breathable is best.
Insulating midlayer (fleece/down)
Lightweight warmth for the colder air at Hurricane Ridge and windy breaks.
Refillable water bottle and snacks
Hydration and quick calories keep energy steady across a long, active day.