Cross Puget Sound by ferry to the wild Olympic Peninsula and ascend to Hurricane Ridge — a 5,242-foot alpine meadow with jaw-dropping views across the Strait of Juan de Fuca — then descend to Sol Duc Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest.
What to expect
Board a Washington State Ferry across Puget Sound — itself a spectacular 35-minute crossing with views of the Olympic Mountains looming ahead — then head to Hurricane Ridge, where Olympic marmots graze in meadows just off the paved path and black-tailed deer are virtually guaranteed sightings year-round. The drive down to the Hoh or Sol Duc valley takes you through cathedral old-growth forest before you reach the mossy canyon and thundering four-channel waterfall at Sol Duc. Seasonally, Roosevelt elk may be spotted in the valley.
Good to know
Port Angeles is the gateway town — cruises calling there make this excursion seamlessly easy. From Seattle, factor in the ferry crossing (Edmonds–Kingston or Seattle–Bainbridge) and allow a full day (10+ hours). Hurricane Ridge road can close in poor weather; confirm conditions the morning of travel. Book well ahead in July–August when Olympic NP visitation peaks. Olympic NP entry fee currently USD 35 per vehicle.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Puget Sound — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.