Olympic National Park Backpacking – High Divide
4 days
From $ 1099
Duration4 days

Experience breathtaking views on a 4-day backpacking trip along the iconic High Divide and Seven Lakes Basin Loop. A much-loved route within the remote and unspoiled Olympic National Park, this trip boasts old-growth forests, high alpine lakes and endless views. Backpacking enthusiasts will find themselves feeling weary but alive on this route, and those up for the challenge will not be disappointed. Passing fields of wildflowers and spotting the occasional elk, deer or marmot, it’s easy to understand what makes this area one of the most treasured destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Beginning in Sol Duc Valley, hike from towering old-growth forests to high alpine meadows. Take a moment to appreciate Sol Duc Falls feeding into a river teeming with salmon year-round. The route continues to gain elevation as it climbs to the trail’s namesake, The High Divide. Take in unparalleled panoramic mountain views from the ridge and enjoy adventuring through trails alongside new friends. Our expert guides lead the way, sharing their expansive knowledge of the park’s natural history and ensuring the adventure exceeds expectations.

This tour is operated by

  • Duration: 4 days
    Service level: Standard
  • Starts in: Park Shore Waikiki
    Physical Grading: Average
  • Ages: 18+
Olympic National Park Backpacking – High Divide - Tour Map

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome to Olympic National Park!

Start place: Park Shore Waikiki

Meet your guides and fellow travelers at 9am at our Seattle area host hotel. After brief introductions we hop in our shuttle van and begin our three-hour transfer to Sol Duc Campground. This evening our guides walk through the daily itinerary, outline Leave No Trace principles and distribute group gear. We enjoy a delicious camp meal before tucking ourselves into our tents for the evening. Lunch and Dinner included.
Hiking mileage: minimal
Meals: D
Day 2: Hike from towering old-growth forests to high alpine meadows.
Our hike starts by winding through a towering old-growth forest before reaching Sol Duc Falls. The falls tumble 48 feet into the river below and we take a moment to enjoy the view. We eventually part ways with the diverse ecosystem of the rainforest and start a steady climb through alpine forests and meadows. Our views open up across the gorgeous Sol Duc valley and we finish the day at a picturesque backcountry camp. All meals included.
Hiking Mileage: 7-8 miles depending on location of permitted campsite; Elevation Gain/Loss: around 2,000’
Meals: B, L, D
Day 3: Enjoy spectacular views from the High Divide Trail.
Today we journey along one of the most iconic backpacking trails within the National Park system. The High Divide, offers 360-degree views of Mount Olympus, the Hoh River Valley and down into the Seven Lakes Basin. Lunch will be in Seven Lakes Basin at the appropriately named Lunch Lake. We’ll take our time enjoying a well-deserved meal and get our chance to take a refreshing dip in the lake’s vibrant blue waters. Back on the trail to this evening’s camp, we’ll be camera-ready in the hopes of spotting the plentiful wildlife that call the area home. Once we’ve made camp we share highlights from the day and enjoy our last backcountry dinner. All meals included.
Hiking Mileage: up to 8 miles; Elevation Gain/Loss: around 2,000’
Meals: B, L, D
Day 4: Hike our final miles of the High Divide Loop.
We savor our final few miles on the trail from Deer Lake to the Sol Duc Falls Trailhead. Once back at the trailhead, we have lunch before loading into the van for a quick ride to Sol Duc Hot Springs. We take some time to enjoy a shower, a swim and a soak in the mineral hot-spring pools before setting out for our 3.5-hour drive back to Seattle. We anticipate arriving back into Seattle between 5-6pm, though this time may change based off group pace, trail conditions, weather and other elements beyond our control. Breakfast and lunch included.
Hiking Mileage: 3.8 miles; Elevation loss: 1,800’
Meals: B, L

Inclusions

Included

  • Round trip group transfer from designated Seattle Area hotel to trailhead
  • meals as noted in the daily itinerary
  • campsite and backcountry permits and fees
  • Accommodation

    Established campground: 1 night, backcountry camping: 2 nights

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