Travel to Mount Rainier National Park for an epic introductory hike
Meet your guide and fellow travelers at our host hotel near the Seattle airport early this morning. After a brief trip orientation, we drive to Mount Rainier National Park for our first hike nestled on the shores of Reflection Lake, named for its beautiful reflection of the mountain when glassy waters. The trail offers alpine beauty with towering evergreens and views of the Tatoosh Range and Mt. Rainer. After circumnavigating Reflection Lake, we'll ascend Pinnacle Peak Trail which culminates in an epic ridge walk with views extending infinitely in every direction and the perfect perch for viewing Mt. Rainier when conditions are right. After descending back to the trailhead, it's a short drive to the historic Paradise Inn, our home for the next two nights. Lunch and dinner included.
Hiking: up to 5.5 miles, Elevation gain/loss: 1,845'/1,796', Van Transfer: 3 hours
Explore Sunrise and conquer Burroughs Mountain
Sitting at an elevation of 6,400', Sunrise is the highest visitor center in Mount Rainier National Park and the destination for our epic hike on the Burroughs Mountain Trail. This stunning trail offers one of the most dramatic and unobstructed views of Mount Rainier due to the immense and barren landscape. In the summer months, its alpine meadows are bursting with wildflowers. From Sunrise, you'll get a different perspective of the mountain and the park's grandeur. This afternoon, we'll return to Paradise Inn for another beautiful evening at the heart of the park. All meals included.
Hiking: 6 miles, Elevation gain/loss: 1,667', Van Transfer: 2 hours
Hike through old-growth forests to epic waterfalls
Our last full day in the park takes us to Van Trump Park and Mildred Point. This out-and-back hike starts at the often-photographed Christine Falls where it climbs steadily as it skirts the flowing Van Trump Creek. The trail takes us through old-growth forests of Douglas Fir and western red cedar until it reaches Comet Falls, a mesmerizing 320' waterfall and the perfect respite on a hot day. From Comet Falls, the trail continues ascending to Van Trump Park where we'll have a picnic lunch with a front-row seat to Van Trump and Kautz Glaciers. From here, we continue to Mildred Point where the surrounding glaciers and expansive landscapes create a rewarding experience. Tonight, we stay in the quaint town of Ashford and enjoy dinner at a favorite local restaurant. All meals included.
Hiking: 7 miles, Elevation gain/loss: 3,135'
Take in the scenery of a Pacific Coast beach hike
Today, we trade high alpine forests for the wild coastline of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, we'll indulge in several scenic points to break up the drive, but the main attraction is Ruby Beach. Located inside Olympic National Park, this beach hike is a fascinating tapestry of sea stacks, driftwood sculptures, and crashing waves. It's where nature's artistry takes center stage along the rugged Pacific coastline. We finish the day with a relaxing stay at the historic Kalaloch Lodge perched on a bluff overlooking the ocean, a true highlight for those who stay there. All meals included.
Beach walking: up to 6 miles, Elevation gain/loss: minimal, Van Transfer: 4.5 hours
Visit the Hoh Rainforest and hike along the rugged coastline
The Hoh Rainforest and Pacific coastline are two extraordinary and distinct ecosystems within Olympic National Park that we'll visit today. First up is the Hoh Rainforest, one of the park's most recognizable destinations. Here, we'll walk among its ancient moss-draped trees and lush undergrowth trails learning about the diverse plant and animal life that call this living green cathedral, home. Next, the power of the Pacific Ocean provides a stark contrast to the ancient rainforest. Our beach hike will be determined by the tides, weather, and trail conditions but we'll be sure to see more sea stacks, natural arches, and clear tide pools as we explore the hidden corners of dark sandy beaches. All meals included.
Hiking: up to 6 miles, Elevation gain/loss: minimal, Van Transfer: 3.5 hours
Hurricane Hill hike. Return to Seattle
It could be argued that we're saving the best adventure for last, hiking majestic Hurricane Hill one of the park's most treasured trails. True to its moniker, this area is known for strong winds and inclement weather but when conditions are favorable, the trail reveals stunning panoramas of surrounding peaks and views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It's the perfect ending to our amazing adventure. This afternoon we return to our host hotel near the Seattle airport. We plan to arrive by early evening but traffic, schedules, trail conditions, weather, group pace, and other factors beyond our control can influence our arrival time. Breakfast and lunch included.
Hiking: 3.2 miles, Elevation gain/loss: 650', Van Transfer: 4 hours