Olympic, North Cascades & Mount Rainier: 9 Day Camping Adventure

Winding through snow-capped peaks and wildflower-filled meadows in Mount Rainier National Park brought back vivid memories of hiking in the Alps during my time in Germany. There's something timeless and humbling about standing at those heights, surrounded by nature's raw beauty—where the only sound is your breath mingling with the whisper of the wind.

@camillalxy, Your AAdventure Guide

Essential Information

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Seattle (SEA) -> Fairholme Campground

Arrive in Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and pick up your rental car. Stock up on supplies before your 3-hr drive to Olympic National Park. Settle into Fairholme Campground, and if time allows, take a scenic drive along Hurricane Ridge for sunset views to kick off your trip.

Day 2 - Hoh Rain Forest -> Rialto Beach -> Marymere Falls

Immerse yourself in the moss-draped landscapes of Hoh Rain Forest with easy hikes on the Hall of Mosses and Spruce Nature Trails. Afterward, make your way to Rialto Beach for a memorable 3.3-mile hike to Hole-in-the-Wall, where sea stacks and tide pools offer stunning coastal views. End the day with a short evening hike to Marymere Falls near camp.

Day 3 - Hurricane Ridge -> Mount Storm King

Start your day with panoramic views on the 3.4-mile Hurricane Hill Trail, followed by a challenging 4.1-mile climb up Mount Storm King for breathtaking overlooks. The combination of sweeping ridge views and steep, rewarding hikes makes for an unforgettable day.

Day 4 - Colonial Creek Campground -> Thunder Knob Trail

Pack up early and get ready for your 5-hr drive to North Cascades National Park, stopping at Colonial Creek Campground. Take in the views of Diablo Lake after hiking the 3.4-mile Thunder Knob Trail for fantastic lake and mountain vistas. End the day with a camp dinner under the stars.

Day 5 - Maple Pass Loop -> Rainy Lake -> Washington Pass Overlook

Conquer the iconic Maple Pass Loop, a 7.2-mile trail that offers jaw-dropping views of alpine lakes and rugged peaks. Later, visit the Rainy Lake Trail and Washington Pass Overlook for more photo opportunities and scenic tranquility.

Day 6 - Cougar Rock Campground -> Alta Vista Trail -> Reflection Lakes

Pack up early and get ready for a 5-hr drive to Mount Rainier and set up camp at Cougar Rock. In the afternoon, hike the Alta Vista Trail for vibrant wildflower meadows and views of the towering peak. Unwind with an evening at Reflection Lakes for serene photography and relaxation.

Day 7 - Skyline Trail to Panorama Point -> Myrtle Falls

Spend the day on one of Mount Rainier's most famous hikes, the Skyline Trail to Panorama Point. The 5.5-mile loop offers some of the best views of the mountain, with endless wildflowers, cascading streams, and glacial vistas. Explore nearby shorter trails like Mrytle Falls before returning to camp for a cozy evening.

Day 8 - Sourdough Ridge Trail to Mount Fremont Fire Lookout -> Seattle

Pack up early and hike to Mount Fremont Fire Lookout via the Sourdough Ridge Trail (5.7-mile) for expansive views of the surrounding wilderness. Afterward, drive 2 hours back to Seattle, check into your hotel, and enjoy a final night out in the city before wrapping up your adventure.

Day 9 - Departure from SEA

Depending on your flight schedule, explore more of downtown Seattle before heading to the airport. Don't forget to share your photos and experiences with us to be featured on Voyagers' social media. We'd love to hear your stories!

This Trip Is Best For

First-time visitors: "I've never been to Olympic, North Cascades, or Mount Rainier and want to see all the highlights."

Experienced hikers: "I'm in good shape and enjoy challenging hikes and packed schedules."

Outdoor adventurers: "I prioritize unique outdoor experiences over food and lodging conditions."

Independent explorers: "I prefer traveling without a guide and am comfortable with basic navigation."

Early planners: "I plan my trips at least 6 months in advance to secure reservations."

How To Autopilot

1. Pay a deposit to receive the full itinerary and secure your spot if you'd like to join a group.

2. Answer a few questions from us to be matched with compatible group members. 

3. Pay the balance to meet your group and get ready for your self-guided adventure together.

• Once you've met your group, no refunds will be issued for cancellations.
  
• Each additional participant you bring gets 10% off the balance for everyone in the same party, until your party size reaches the max group size of the trip.

For just $18 or less, you'll be ready to go with an actionable itinerary AND travel buddies you'll get along with.

That's like HOURS ⏰ of trip planning and HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS 💰 on travel agency SAVED ✅

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