Activities

Hiking
Camping
Kayaking

Included

Round-trip transportation from / to Seattle
Medically-trained naturalist guides
Park entry fees
Campsite reservations and fees
One night in Seattle hotel (double occupancy)
Tent, sleeping pad, and group camping equipment
Lake kayaking
All meals indicated in itinerary

Weather

Summer is a wonderful time to visit Washington and the weather can be extremely varied. We’ll be exploring a variety of locations each with its own weather trends.

In general, you should be prepared for warm, comfortable days with temperatures in the 70s – possibly reaching the 80s in the afternoon. Nights will be cooler with lows in the 50s. Though less likely this time of year, there is always the potential for rain. High elevations on Mount Rainier may even have lingering snow this time of year!

Intensity – Moderate

Most days will include hikes that are approximately 3-4 miles with mild to moderate elevation change. Expect to be active for about 4 hours a day. Suitable for most fit travelers with some hiking experience.

Accommodations

• Three nights camping in North Cascades National Park
• Three nights camping at Sol Duc Campground in Olympic National Park
• 1 night in a hotel in Seattle (double occupancy)

Day 1

Plan to arrive in Seattle by the mid afternoon. After meeting your adventure-mates upon arrival, we’ll load up and head out to the stunning North Cascades. After arriving in the park, we’ll set up our camp together and settle in. Dinner tonight is a hearty camp cooked meal that will fuel us up for the next day’s adventure, as we get to know each other and review the trip itinerary.

Meals: D

Day 2

Today’s destination is the jaw-dropping Cascade Pass, one of the most stunning hikes in the entire United States. The views today will be well earned – with three miles of switch backs starting us on our way. Soon, though, we’ll enter the vast alpine zone and soak up our rewarding views. If our group is especially ambitious, we may continue upwards toward the Sahale Arm where whistling marmots and vibrant wildflowers await.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 3

This morning we’ll load up and head to Diablo Lake – a deep blue glacial gem. Depending on the conditions and time of year, we may start our day with a hike up Thunder Knob and enjoy the afternoon taking a refreshing dip in these alpine waters. We’ll also visit some picturesque viewpoints along the way for more stunning vistas of the North Cascades majestic landscape.

In the evening, we’ll stargaze at camp, indulge in s’mores, and revel in campfire stories with new friends.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 4

This morning, we’ll pack up and head to our next destination – the Olympic peninsula! Today’s voyage includes a relaxing ferry ride and a stop on Whidbey Island for some time to shop, explore, and eat some tasty local lunch (not included). Tonight we’ll set up at our next camp deep in the lush forest at Sol Duc for another few nights of sleeping under the stars.

Meals: B, D

• Required Gear
  • Day pack (15-30 liters recommended)
  • Luggage (can be left in the vehicle, 1 small suitcase per person)
  • Sleeping bag (available to rent), rated to 20 degrees or lower
  • Pack cover
  • Headlamp
  • Reusable water bottles or bladders (3L total capacity)
• Recommended Gear and Personal Item
  • Hiking poles
  • Cotton or silk sleeping bag liner (optional, recommended if renting)
  • Travel 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