Activities

Backpacking

Included

Medically-trained, naturalist guides
All transportation in passenger van
Camping fees & backpacking permits
Tent, sleeping pad, and group camping equipment
All meals indicated in itinerary
Park entry fees

Weather

The Olympic Peninsula in August is relatively mild in terms of temperature, with highs in the 70s to low 80s during the day and overnight lows in the 50s, occasionally dropping lower. The region is known for its rain, though August is one of the driest months. Be prepared for rain, though it is less likely during this time than the rest of the year.

Group 

Good Trippers can be any age but most of our travelers are in their 30s – 50s.

We get families, couples and friends, but most of our travelers come solo! We have hiking trips for all abilities, just make sure to review the Intensity section for information about what to expect on your trip.

All public trips are 18+. If you’re traveling with kids, we’d be happy to make any itinerary private! Email info@goodtripadventures.com.

Intensity – Mild to Moderate

Hiking days will usually include about 6 total hours on the trail, covering anywhere from 8-10 miles on the day with weight. This trip includes four days of backcountry hiking, so it’s best for travelers who are comfortable being active for most of the day, multiple days in a row. Some hiking experience is recommended. Backpacking experience is not required.

Accommodations

• Three nights backcountry camp

Day 1

Plan to arrive in Seattle by 10 AM. After meeting your adventure-mates upon arrival, we’ll load up and head out to the Western Olympic Peninsula (taking a lunch break along the way). Our starting point is the dense, lush Hoh Rainforest where we’ll begin our walk along the Hoh River Trail.

Our mileage today is about 3 miles and the trail is almost entirely flat, which will give us time to find our hiking legs. Our destination tonight is the Mount Tom Creek camp, where we’ll set up and debrief about the day, its challenges, and its rewards.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 2

Hopefully feeling into our groove, a big day awaits us! We’ll have about 6-7 miles of flat hiking before starting uphill as we head toward Elk Lake. Our total mileage for the day will come in at about 12, but we’ll take it slow over some challenging elevation gain. After a big day, we’ll eat dinner and spend some time chatting about the changes we all saw in both the landscapes and ourselves today.

Meals: B, L, D

• Required Gear
  • Backpack (45-60 L recommended)
  • Duffel or suitcase (to be left in the vehicle when backpacking, 1 small suitcase or duffel per person)
  • Sleeping bag (also available to rent), rated to 20 degrees or below
  • Pack cover
  • Headlamp
  • Reusable water bottles or bladders (3L total capacity)
• Recommended Gear and personal items 
  • • Hiking poles
    • Cotton or silk sleeping bag liner (optional, recommended if renting)
    • Camping pillow
    • Sunscreen
    • Earplugs
    • Insect repellent
    • Toiletries (please choose biodegradable and scent-free items)
    • Small, personal first aid kit (including blister treatment)
    • Small, quick dry towel
    • Personal plate, mug, and utensils (your guide will have these items if you don’t have your own)