This Hoh Rainforest backpacking adventure to Blue Glacier is an Olympic National Park favorite! Explore a beautiful old-growth temperate rainforest, enjoy the sun from a pristine meadow, fall asleep to the rolling waters of the Hoh River, and climb to the breathtaking overlook of the Blue Glacier. On this hike you will have the opportunity to hike through different ecosystems within the park and see the variety of plants and wildlife that inhabit them. You may see deer, elk, and bears. Your hiking efforts will be awarded with spectacular views of Mt. Olympus and the Blue Glacier.
You will receive a full refund if you cancel within 48 hours of the original booking date.
Lifetime Credit Policy
Book with confidence knowing you can cancel for any reason up to 30 days before your trip date and receive a transferable lifetime credit that is good for use on any of our programs.
Free Date Changes
Not sure if your current trip dates work? Rest assured, you can change your trip date as many times as needed, provided you do so at least 30 days before the current and new trip dates.
All dates remain tentative until confirmed in mid-April each year.
All 2026 dates remain tentative until permits are received after April 15th. Please refrain from making travel arrangements outside of this timeline. We will contact you if we are unsuccessful in obtaining the exact dates listed above. Feel free to contact us after April 15th if you would like to confirm.
Hoh Rainforest to Blue Glacier Backpacking Trip
For a detailed map with an elevation profile of the tentative itinerary, click here: Map.
Day 1
Meet your guides at 2 p.m. at the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center (look for elk on the drive in!) Get acquainted with gear and your trip-mates and you’re off! Hike an easygoing, flatish five miles into the depths of the lush Hoh rainforest and spend the evening relaxing by the fire next to the great Hoh River.
Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 5 mi / +375′, -179′
Day 2
Today we will gain some elevation, climbing up out of the river valley into the montane forest. Admire the changing vegetation, take a break at the legendary High Hoh Bridge, and cool off at Martin Creek before landing at Elk Lake, where we will base camp for two nights.
Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 11 mi / +2401′, -588′
Day 3
Pack your day pack and leave camp setup at Elk Lake for an epic day hike to the Blue Glacier! Conquer the infamous ladder, climb into the alpine, and behold views of high peaks and wildflowers as you make your way to the ultimate destination: overlooking the Blue Glacier and Mount Olympus! We’ll finish the day by descending back to camp the way we came.
Blue Glacier
Be aware that the optional round-trip day hike to the blue glacier includes climbing (up and down) a 100-foot ladder along a washed-out scree slope. Our guides are highly trained in managing the risk of the ladder and will give you thorough instructions prior to use. See this link for more information from NPS on the Hoh River Trail.
Round-trip Mileage/Elevation: 6.45 mi / +2956′, -2949′
Day 4
Descend the 10 miles back down into the river valley to Five Mile Island, reminiscing about the amazing glacier views along the way, and noticing new flora and fauna that you may have missed the first time around! Relax by the fire and the river that night.
Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 10 mi / +561′, -2362′
Day 5
A flat, leisurely five miles takes you back to where you started, at the Hoh Visitor Center. If time allows, take the 1-mile loop through the Hall of Mosses before exiting to the trailhead and amaze yourself with the quietude and lush green.
Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 5 mi / +179′, –375′
Late Season (September): For any Hoh, Sol Duc/Seven Lakes Basin or Grand Valley backpacking trips in September, especially the second half of the month, please be aware that weather conditions can vary more widely. Sometimes we get a warm/dry September, sometimes the rain starts in September, and conditions are always exaggerated in the alpine; that’s the beauty of the Olympics! Be prepared for possible rain and cooler temperatures. If dangerous storms are in the forecast, we may have to alter the itinerary to avoid traveling in exposed terrain during storms.
Our trips are all-inclusive. We provide all meals, and we can provide high-quality gear, including Gregory backpacks, Big Agnes tents, sleeping bags and pads, LEKI trekking poles, and eating gear, free of charge. Group gear, including all kitchen supplies, first aid, and water purification, is also included. See the Guide Service Backpacking Equipment List for more information.
All trips include the required permits and are pending permit availability which we gain on April 15th of each year. Please refrain from making travel arrangements until we have confirmed dates. If we cannot acquire permits for this exact itinerary on your chosen dates, you will be contacted with options to choose different dates and/or cancel/refund.
Parking will be available adjacent to the first day’s meeting location.Â
Should weather, fire, and/or delayed seasonal openings affect the chosen itinerary, a different itinerary will be offered. Lasting Adventures is recognized for its commitment to safety and risk management. In this regard, the summit of peaks will not be attempted when clouds are in close proximity.
Late Season (September): For any Hoh, Sol Duc/Seven Lakes Basin or Grand Valley backpacking trips in September, especially the second half of the month, please be aware that weather conditions can vary more widely. Sometimes we get a warm/dry September, sometimes the rain starts in September, and conditions are always exaggerated in the alpine; that’s the beauty of the Olympics! Be prepared for possible rain and cooler temperatures. If dangerous storms are in the forecast, we may have to alter the itinerary to avoid traveling in exposed terrain during storms.
Your participation helps sustain our non-profit mission of supporting youth, families, and disadvantaged communities with positive experiences in America’s National Parks and natural spaces.
I have never backpacked before. Can I still join this trip?
Yes, our backpack trips are perfect for both those who are new to backpacking and those who have backpacked before and are looking to explore new areas.
I am booking as a solo participant. Is that okay?
Yes, overall, most of our clients travel solo, and everyone always leaves with new friends. Often these new friendships return and join us in different parks and/or on different itineraries. Solo participants will be offered single-person tents.
How big are the backpacking groups?
On backpacking trips, our average group size is 8-10 people with at least two guides, however, often groups are much smaller. We strive for a 1:5 guide to client ratio at most on all trips. We also appreciate small group sizes to maximize your experience.
You can expect to carry anywhere from 30-50 pounds, but no more than â…“ of your body weight. You will carry all your personal gear and, if possible, a share of the group gear. Within the group, bigger people carry more and smaller people less. For over 30 years now, this process has worked to everyone’s advantage.
Can you accommodate dietary requests?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We have a long history of meeting the needs of most all dietary restrictions and even some very complicated ones. When registering, you will complete a questionnaire to give us a brief picture of your needs. Later, you will complete a more detailed Medical Form, which you can use to include additional information. The staff guiding your trip will call you the day prior and, when packing the food/gear for the trip, will go over your needs and modifications in more detail. Although we have many options in stock, we respect it if you ultimately decide to bring your preferred substitutions.
Will there be parking available?
Yes, parking is always available close to our first day’s meeting point, and your vehicle can remain there throughout the trip. Although parking is free, remember to expect a vehicle fee when entering the park.
Are there public transportation options available?
Due to the remote trips we offer in Olympic National Park, a rental vehicle is advised. However, you can find more information on transportation options here: Olympic Transportation Options.
Where can I leave my extra/other luggage and/or belongings I will be traveling with?
You can store your valuables and/or extra gear/luggage either locked in your vehicle or our guide’s vehicle for the duration of the trip.
How can I avoid the extra processing and booking fees when registering for the trip?
To avoid the processing fees associated with online registration, you can pay by check, Zelle, or bank transfer. See more information here:Â Payment Options.Â
What's your cancellation policy?
Lasting Adventures offers a very forgiving and structured Cancellation Policy, with lifetime transferable credit always an option up to 30 days prior to the trip. For a full description, visit our Terms and Conditions page.
Our trips are all-inclusive. We provide all meals, and we can provide high-quality gear, including Gregory backpacks, Big Agnes tents, sleeping bags and pads, LEKI trekking poles, and eating gear, free of charge. Group gear, including all kitchen supplies, first aid, and water purification, is also included. See the Guide Service Backpacking Equipment List for more information.
All trips include the required permits and are pending permit availability which we gain on April 15th of each year. Please refrain from making travel arrangements until we have confirmed dates. If we cannot acquire permits for this exact itinerary on your chosen dates, you will be contacted with options to choose different dates and/or cancel/refund.
Parking will be available adjacent to the first day’s meeting location.Â
Should weather, fire, and/or delayed seasonal openings affect the chosen itinerary, a different itinerary will be offered. Lasting Adventures is recognized for its commitment to safety and risk management. In this regard, the summit of peaks will not be attempted when clouds are in close proximity.
Late Season (September): For any Hoh, Sol Duc/Seven Lakes Basin or Grand Valley backpacking trips in September, especially the second half of the month, please be aware that weather conditions can vary more widely. Sometimes we get a warm/dry September, sometimes the rain starts in September, and conditions are always exaggerated in the alpine; that’s the beauty of the Olympics! Be prepared for possible rain and cooler temperatures. If dangerous storms are in the forecast, we may have to alter the itinerary to avoid traveling in exposed terrain during storms.
Your participation helps sustain our non-profit mission of supporting youth, families, and disadvantaged communities with positive experiences in America’s National Parks and natural spaces.
What Our Clients Say
This was our second trip with Lasting Adventures and it was nothing short of amazing. Anna was an expert guide who took the time to get to know our goals for this experience, and truly went above and beyond to help us achieve them. We really appreciated her deep knowledge of the rainforest and local Native American culture. Anna’s positive energy was contagious and even during the most challenging parts of the hike she kept our energy high — there was nothing we couldn’t accomplish, especially with lots of snacks to fuel us! Our legs are spent and our hearts are full, and we are already thinking about where our next adventure will take us. I really appreciate how easy it is to backpack with Lasting Adventures — with all the high-quality gear provided, I really only needed to pack my clothing and personal items. All the communication leading up to our trip, including training tips and a packing list, is incredibly helpful.
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Beth P.
8/13/2025
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Beth P.
8/13/2025
This was our second trip with Lasting Adventures and it was nothing short of amazing. Anna was an expert guide who took the time to get to know our goals for this experience, and truly went above and beyond to help us achieve them. We really appreciated her deep knowledge of the rainforest and local Native American culture. Anna’s positive energy was contagious and even during the most challenging parts of the hike she kept our energy high — there was nothing we couldn’t accomplish, especially with lots of snacks to fuel us! Our legs are spent and our hearts are full, and we are already thinking about where our next adventure will take us. I really appreciate how easy it is to backpack with Lasting Adventures — with all the high-quality gear provided, I really only needed to pack my clothing and personal items. All the communication leading up to our trip, including training tips and a packing list, is incredibly helpful.
This MUST be on your bucket list! This was our second trip with Lasting Adventures and it was nothing short of amazing. Anna was an expert guide who took the time to get to know our goals for this experience, and truly went above and beyond to help us achieve them. We really appreciated her deep knowledge of the rainforest and local Native American culture. Anna’s positive energy was contagious and even during the most challenging parts of the hike she kept our energy high — there was nothing we couldn’t accomplish, especially with lots of snacks to fuel us! Our legs are spent and our hearts are full, and we are already thinking about where our next adventure will take us. I really appreciate how easy it is to backpack with Lasting Adventures — with all the high-quality gear provided, I really only needed to pack my clothing and personal items. All the communication leading up to our trip, including training tips and a packing list, is incredibly helpful.
- Read Moreread less
Bethany P.
8/08/2025
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Bethany P.
8/08/2025
This MUST be on your bucket list! This was our second trip with Lasting Adventures and it was nothing short of amazing. Anna was an expert guide who took the time to get to know our goals for this experience, and truly went above and beyond to help us achieve them. We really appreciated her deep knowledge of the rainforest and local Native American culture. Anna’s positive energy was contagious and even during the most challenging parts of the hike she kept our energy high — there was nothing we couldn’t accomplish, especially with lots of snacks to fuel us! Our legs are spent and our hearts are full, and we are already thinking about where our next adventure will take us. I really appreciate how easy it is to backpack with Lasting Adventures — with all the high-quality gear provided, I really only needed to pack my clothing and personal items. All the communication leading up to our trip, including training tips and a packing list, is incredibly helpful.
Hoh Rainforest and Alpine Tour I did the five-day Hoh rainforest and Alpine tour with Anna. It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Anna was very knowledgeable about backpacking and Olympic. She enhanced our trip every day with great info, patience, and humor. Gear was top notch, and the hikes were spectacular. I plan to go again next year. Cannot recommend enough!!
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Claire L.
7/11/2025
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Claire L.
7/11/2025
Hoh Rainforest and Alpine Tour I did the five-day Hoh rainforest and Alpine tour with Anna. It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Anna was very knowledgeable about backpacking and Olympic. She enhanced our trip every day with great info, patience, and humor. Gear was top notch, and the hikes were spectacular. I plan to go again next year. Cannot recommend enough!!
Sunny rainforest What a great experience with my guide Anna hiking through WA's rainforest. I hadn't experienced such rainforest before, so the huge trees and nursing logs were a great and novel sight. The weather was unexpectedly good (I was prepared for the Twilight weather), which also enhanced the experience. I saw a lot of wildlife, including a friendly black beard eating and being annoyed by the people. The view of Blue Glacier was spectacular - the glacier looked like an ice cream in a bowl. Definitely recommend the hike: you will be taken care of by the guide, receive valuable knowledge about the rainforest's ecosystem and will be especially well-fed ;). Would not say that the hike was particularly strenuous, but probably some hiking and backpacking experience would be helpful.
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Mobile15714158851
9/04/2024
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Mobile15714158851
9/04/2024
Sunny rainforest What a great experience with my guide Anna hiking through WA's rainforest. I hadn't experienced such rainforest before, so the huge trees and nursing logs were a great and novel sight. The weather was unexpectedly good (I was prepared for the Twilight weather), which also enhanced the experience. I saw a lot of wildlife, including a friendly black beard eating and being annoyed by the people. The view of Blue Glacier was spectacular - the glacier looked like an ice cream in a bowl. Definitely recommend the hike: you will be taken care of by the guide, receive valuable knowledge about the rainforest's ecosystem and will be especially well-fed ;). Would not say that the hike was particularly strenuous, but probably some hiking and backpacking experience would be helpful.
I am writing to express my profound gratitude for the incredible experience my family and I had at the Olympic National Blue Glacier hike. Our journey was made all the more exceptional due to the remarkable efforts of your guide, Hannah. My two brothers, my nephew, my daughter, and I embarked on a memorable 5-day hike to the Blue Glacier, and I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the outstanding role that Hannah played in making this adventure truly unforgettable. From the very beginning of our trip until the very end, Hannah exhibited an unwavering commitment to ensuring that every aspect of our experience was nothing short of exceptional. Hannah went above and beyond to accommodate the dietary needs of my daughter, who requires a gluten-free diet. Her extra effort in providing suitable and delicious gluten-free food options showcased her thoughtfulness and consideration for each member of our group. Not only was she a phenomenal guide, but she also displayed remarkable culinary skills that left us all thoroughly impressed. Her expertise as a guide was evident throughout the journey. Her knowledge of the park's terrain, wildlife, and history added an enriching layer to our adventure. Hannah's leadership and guidance instilled in us a sense of confidence, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the surroundings and the challenges of the trail. Hannah's warmth, patience, and genuine care for her guests made her stand out as one of the best guides we have ever had the pleasure of encountering. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with people on a personal level truly set her apart. She embodies the essence of what makes a guide not only effective but also memorable and cherished. I kindly ask that you convey our deep appreciation to Hannah for her exceptional skills, her incredible culinary talents, and her overall remarkable presence. She truly was a rock star throughout our entire journey, and her contributions significantly enhanced our experience. Once again, thank you for providing us with an incredible adventure at the Olympic National Blue Glacier Park. It was an experience that will remain etched in our memories for a lifetime, largely due to the efforts of Hannah. We are grateful beyond words for her dedication and the lasting impact she had on our trip.
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Dan B.
8/31/2023
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Dan B.
8/31/2023
I am writing to express my profound gratitude for the incredible experience my family and I had at the Olympic National Blue Glacier hike. Our journey was made all the more exceptional due to the remarkable efforts of your guide, Hannah. My two brothers, my nephew, my daughter, and I embarked on a memorable 5-day hike to the Blue Glacier, and I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the outstanding role that Hannah played in making this adventure truly unforgettable. From the very beginning of our trip until the very end, Hannah exhibited an unwavering commitment to ensuring that every aspect of our experience was nothing short of exceptional. Hannah went above and beyond to accommodate the dietary needs of my daughter, who requires a gluten-free diet. Her extra effort in providing suitable and delicious gluten-free food options showcased her thoughtfulness and consideration for each member of our group. Not only was she a phenomenal guide, but she also displayed remarkable culinary skills that left us all thoroughly impressed. Her expertise as a guide was evident throughout the journey. Her knowledge of the park's terrain, wildlife, and history added an enriching layer to our adventure. Hannah's leadership and guidance instilled in us a sense of confidence, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the surroundings and the challenges of the trail. Hannah's warmth, patience, and genuine care for her guests made her stand out as one of the best guides we have ever had the pleasure of encountering. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with people on a personal level truly set her apart. She embodies the essence of what makes a guide not only effective but also memorable and cherished. I kindly ask that you convey our deep appreciation to Hannah for her exceptional skills, her incredible culinary talents, and her overall remarkable presence. She truly was a rock star throughout our entire journey, and her contributions significantly enhanced our experience. Once again, thank you for providing us with an incredible adventure at the Olympic National Blue Glacier Park. It was an experience that will remain etched in our memories for a lifetime, largely due to the efforts of Hannah. We are grateful beyond words for her dedication and the lasting impact she had on our trip.
Great experience! My friend and I did the 5 day/4 night Hoh Rainforest to Blue Glacier trip in late July and had a great time. I hadn't done any serious backpacking in 7 years and felt a little rusty on some of my skills, so probably wouldn't have attempted something like this on my own. It's so great that Lasting Adventures exists to help folks get out there! This trail was incredible - just absolutely stunning the whole way through. I'm so grateful to Hannah, our guide, for her knowledge and encouragement. Communication was great leading up to the trip. I felt well-informed and prepared. The gear I borrowed from them was good and the meals were great!
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Rachel
7/29/2023
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Rachel
7/29/2023
Great experience! My friend and I did the 5 day/4 night Hoh Rainforest to Blue Glacier trip in late July and had a great time. I hadn't done any serious backpacking in 7 years and felt a little rusty on some of my skills, so probably wouldn't have attempted something like this on my own. It's so great that Lasting Adventures exists to help folks get out there! This trail was incredible - just absolutely stunning the whole way through. I'm so grateful to Hannah, our guide, for her knowledge and encouragement. Communication was great leading up to the trip. I felt well-informed and prepared. The gear I borrowed from them was good and the meals were great!
All we had to do was hike. Our guide did the rest. Physically challenging for a near 70 year old flat lander but hike was geared down in advance at participant request and at no time was I physically exhausted. Went from deep forest to above tree line. Views of Olympic and Blue Glaciers probably highlight. Borrowed equipment which worked well. Our guide, Dawson, was knowledgeable, patient and resourceful. Weather magnificent which of course helps. Maybe this is understood but this trip is not glamping. Sleep on ground, relieve yourself there as well and eat simple but adequate food. Overall for me a bit of magic to find myself in the Olympic Penninsula wilderness.
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tim m.
9/03/2022
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tim m.
9/03/2022
All we had to do was hike. Our guide did the rest. Physically challenging for a near 70 year old flat lander but hike was geared down in advance at participant request and at no time was I physically exhausted. Went from deep forest to above tree line. Views of Olympic and Blue Glaciers probably highlight. Borrowed equipment which worked well. Our guide, Dawson, was knowledgeable, patient and resourceful. Weather magnificent which of course helps. Maybe this is understood but this trip is not glamping. Sleep on ground, relieve yourself there as well and eat simple but adequate food. Overall for me a bit of magic to find myself in the Olympic Penninsula wilderness.
All Lasting Adventures Olympic Backpacking trips require trailhead permits, which we receive in mid-April for the following summer season.
If you register for any date before permitting is complete and we are unable to obtain the necessary permits, we will work with you to select alternative dates or trips. A complete cancellation or refund is always the final option.
