Rainforests and Alpine Lakes

Olympic National Park

Trip Highlights:

Hoh Rainforest

Sol Duc Mountains

Glacial Lakes

On this hike, you will have the unique opportunity to not only hike through the spectacular Hoh River Valley but to view it from above on the famous High Divide Trail! You'll also be enchanted by close-up views of Mount Olympus, the Seven Lakes Basin, and Hoh Lake! Enjoy endless wildflowers, bugling elks, swimming bears, and more varieties of moss than you can count! You'll have the opportunity to relax by the river, take a dip in some alpine lakes, and enjoy the peace, quiet and majesty of two of the most iconic areas in Olympic National Park.

Mileage & Difficulty

Varies

(Map and Elevation)

Moderate-Strenuous

Length

5 Days

Price

$2,000

Per Person

Departure Info

Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center

2 p.m.

Check Availability

48-Hour Risk-Free Booking

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.

See HERE for more info.

2026 Departure Dates by Month

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.

Rainforests and Alpine Lakes Backpacking Trip

The itinerary and hiking location will vary based on permit availability. For a detailed map with an elevation profile of the tentative itinerary, click here: Map. This particular route may also be done in reverse.

Day 1

Meet at Hoh Rainforest Visitors Center and gather your gear as you get ready to embark on a challenging and rewarding trek through the rainforest and up to the alpine. Hike an easygoing, flat 5 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 / +378′, -181′

Day 2

Day two will consist of another leisurely stroll through the rainforest, as we hike another five miles deeper into the valley. Spend time admiring the lush mosses and taking in the quiet of the forest. Arrive at Olympus Guard Station, a historic ranger site, and explore the expanding valley around you before settling in for another hearty dinner and a relaxing night.

Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 4.15 mi / +310′, -146′

Day 3

This day will be our most challenging day, as we hike the 5.5 miles up to Hoh Lake. The trail is difficult, switching back and forth as you approach the alpine, gaining ~3,000 feet of elevation! But take solace in the amazing reward that awaits you: the solitude and beauty of Hoh Lake, where you will find wildflowers, swimming bears, and steep rocky slopes surrounding the lake. Take a load off, take a dip, and relish in your accomplishment!

Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 5.5 mi / +3882′, -303′

Day 4

Another strenuous yet rewarding day is ahead of us; we will ascend out of the Hoh Lake basin up to the High Divide, where you will meet sweeping, breathtaking views of the Hoh River Valley, Mount Olympus and beyond! Enjoy diverse fields of wildflowers and alpine lakes in all directions as we trek east across the divide. The last couple of miles of the hike will take us back into the trees to a relaxing riverside camp in the Sol Duc River Valley.

Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 6.1 mi / +1578′, -2933′

Day 5

A flat 5 miles out of the valley and we’ve arrived at Sol Duc Falls! Put your feet up, enjoy the waterfall and a snack, and pat yourself on the back!

Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 5 mi / +475′, -1661′

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.

Alternate Hiking Locations: Enchanted Valley, Dosewallips, Mount Anderson, Royal Basin, Grand Valley, Graywolf

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.
See here for our Frequently Asked Questions, Olympic Transportation Options, and/or Olympic Lodging Options.
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.
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.

See here for our full Terms & Conditions and Cancellation Policies.

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.

Is there a Packing/Equipment List?

Yes, see here for our Guide Service Backpacking Equipment List.

How much weight will I be required to carry?

You can expect to carry anywhere from 30-50 pounds, but no more than ⅓ 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: Payment Options.

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.

See here for additional Frequently Asked Questions.

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.
See here for our Frequently Asked Questions, Olympic Transportation Options, and/or Olympic Lodging Options.
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.
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.

See here for our full Terms & Conditions and Cancellation Policies.

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.
- Read Moreread less
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.
					
					Amazing! This was really an incredible experience. Our guide, Anna, made the entire experience a once in a lifetime event. She was helpful and encouraging, while also challenging us to rise to new heights. She also spent a lot of time educating us about the various plants, animals, and rocks all around us. I will be doing this once a year from now on!
- Read Moreread less
Travis E.
7/17/2025
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Travis E.
7/17/2025

						Amazing! This was really an incredible experience. Our guide, Anna, made the entire experience a once in a lifetime event. She was helpful and encouraging, while also challenging us to rise to new heights. She also spent a lot of time educating us about the various plants, animals, and rocks all around us. I will be doing this once a year from now on!
					
					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!!
- Read Moreread less
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.
- Read Moreread less
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.
					
					What a wonderful (and different) through hike with Anna (Lasting Adventures) in the North Coast (WA). Haven't hiked in the beach before having to mind the tide schedule, but it was made easy and very interesting (with tide pooling). The views of the coast are spectacular, especially the these huge rocks (islands) with trees in the ocean. Hike was a bit strenuous (and fun) since some parts were on the slippery stones, but Anna planned it to go when the tide was the lowest and in the morning when it was not hot (so we had a sunny afternoon to suntan at the campsite). Could not recommend enough.
- Read Moreread less
Evelina U.
7/29/2024
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Evelina U.
7/29/2024

						What a wonderful (and different) through hike with Anna (Lasting Adventures) in the North Coast (WA). Haven't hiked in the beach before having to mind the tide schedule, but it was made easy and very interesting (with tide pooling). The views of the coast are spectacular, especially the these huge rocks (islands) with trees in the ocean. Hike was a bit strenuous (and fun) since some parts were on the slippery stones, but Anna planned it to go when the tide was the lowest and in the morning when it was not hot (so we had a sunny afternoon to suntan at the campsite). Could not recommend enough.
					
					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.
- Read Moreread less
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.
					
					We had an absolutely amazing time exploring the Ozette coast and cannot recommend Felicity and Lasting Adventures highly enough! It was a fantastic introduction to backpacking for my kids and a wonderful escape for us all. Felicity was the best guide I could have imagined. She was so engaged and interactive with the kids (and adults) and cooked some absolutely fantastic meals. 10/10 would recommend!
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Alison S.
8/10/2023
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Alison S.
8/10/2023

						We had an absolutely amazing time exploring the Ozette coast and cannot recommend Felicity and Lasting Adventures highly enough! It was a fantastic introduction to backpacking for my kids and a wonderful escape for us all. Felicity was the best guide I could have imagined. She was so engaged and interactive with the kids (and adults) and cooked some absolutely fantastic meals. 10/10 would recommend!
					
					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!
- Read Moreread less
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!
					
					Ozette Coast Backpacking Great backpacking trip to the Ozette coast in Washington state! Our guide was amazing and our family had a great time.
- Read Moreread less
John B.
6/15/2023
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John B.
6/15/2023

						Ozette Coast Backpacking Great backpacking trip to the Ozette coast in Washington state! Our guide was amazing and our family had a great time.
					
					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.
- Read Moreread less
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.
					