Ultimate 6-Day Washington Itinerary: Exploring Olympic and Mt. Rainier National Parks

When it comes to exploring the Pacific Northwest, few destinations can compete with the sheer beauty and diversity of Washington State’s national parks. In just six days, you can hike through vibrant rainforests, soak in hot springs, and conquer trails with jaw-dropping mountain views. This itinerary takes you from the lush landscapes of Olympic National Park to the majestic peaks of Mt. Rainier, providing the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable scenery.

We designed this itinerary to help you make the most out of your trip, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with your furry friend. Let’s dive into each day, complete with activity highlights, accommodation and dining recommendations, and tips for pet owners.

Day 1: Arrival in Seattle and Exploring Hurricane Ridge

Fly into Seattle and Hit the Road to Port Angeles
After landing at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, pick up your rental car and hit the road towards Port Angeles . The scenic drive is about 2.5 hours, taking you past stunning water views along Puget Sound. This small town is your gateway to Olympic National Park .

Afternoon: Hurricane Ridge Trail
Kick off your adventure with a hike at Hurricane Ridge. This trail offers sweeping vistas of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. If you’re visiting in summer, expect fields of vibrant wildflowers lining the trail. The main Hurricane Hill Trail is a 3.4-mile round-trip with moderate elevation gain, making it a great way to stretch your legs after your drive.

Pet Note: Dogs are not allowed on most trails in Olympic National Park , including Hurricane Ridge. If you’re traveling with a dog, consider checking out pet boarding options in Port Angeles for half-day or full-day dog sitting.

Dinner: Fish & Crab Shack
End your first day with a delicious meal at Fish & Crab Shack. This local favorite serves up fresh seafood with a laid-back vibe. Try the Dungeness crab or the clam chowder—it’s a must!

Where to Stay in Port Angeles

• Budget: Olympic Lodge – Comfortable and cozy, offering basic amenities and a convenient location close to town.
• Mid-Range: Red Lion Hotel – Slightly upscale with spacious rooms and a great view of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
• High-End: Colette’s Bed & Breakfast – For a luxurious experience, this B&B offers beautiful gardens, ocean views, and gourmet breakfast.

Day 2: Exploring the Hoh Rainforest and Overnight in Forks

Morning: Hoh Rainforest
Start your morning early and drive to the Hoh Rainforest , one of the most iconic spots in Olympic National Park . Here, you’ll find towering trees draped in moss and an otherworldly atmosphere. The Hall of Mosses Trail (0.8-mile loop) is short, easy, and perfect for immersing yourself in the rainforest’s beauty.

Pet Note: Dogs are not allowed on the Hoh Rainforest trails. Consider dropping your pup off at Woof Adventures Dog Daycare in Forks.

Afternoon: Explore Forks
After a morning of hiking, make your way to Forks—a small town made famous by the Twilight series. Grab lunch at the Forks Coffee Shop , and if you’re a fan of the books, take a quick self-guided tour to see Bella’s house and other notable locations.

Where to Stay in Forks

• Budget: Town Motel – Basic but clean, with easy access to the main street.
• Mid-Range: Pacific Inn Motel – Comfortable accommodations with larger rooms and a cozy ambiance.
• High-End: Miller Tree Inn – Also known as “The Cullen House” for Twilight fans, this B&B offers a charming, high-end experience.

Day 3: Coastal Views and Hot Springs

Morning: Rialto Beach
Head to the coast and spend your morning exploring Rialto Beach . The beach is known for its dramatic sea stacks, driftwood-strewn shores, and striking views of the Pacific Ocean. Walk along the shore or take the 1.5-mile trail to Hole-in-the-Wall, a unique rock formation with a natural arch.

Pet Note: Good news! Rialto Beach is one of the few places in Olympic National Park where dogs are allowed. Just keep them leashed and enjoy the coastal breeze together.

Afternoon: Sol Duc Hot Springs
After a beachside adventure, make your way to Sol Duc Hot Springs for a relaxing soak. Choose between mineral pools of varying temperatures, perfect for soothing sore muscles after a day of exploring. There’s also a nearby waterfall trail if you’re up for another quick hike.

Evening: Travel to Packwood and Settle in a Cabin
Finish your day with a scenic drive to Packwood, the closest town to Mt. Rainier National Park . We recommend booking a cozy cabin for a true mountain experience.

Where to Stay in Packwood

• Budget: Packwood Lodge – A no-frills option with clean rooms and close proximity to the park entrance.
• Mid-Range: Mountain View Lodge – Comfortable accommodations with kitchenettes and pet-friendly options.
• High-End: Cowlitz River Lodge – Upscale lodge-style accommodations with spacious rooms and stunning views.

Day 4: Hiking in Mt. Rainier National Park

Morning: Big Creek Trailhead #252
Start your day with a hike at Big Creek Trailhead #252. This trail offers moderate difficulty and winds through beautiful forested areas with views of nearby peaks. In the fall, the colors are especially spectacular. If you’re up for more of a challenge, add the nearby loop trails to extend your hike.

Pet Note: Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on most Mt. Rainier trails. Consider using Paws-N-Claws in Packwood for pet daycare.

Afternoon: Relax and Explore Packwood
After your hike, take the rest of the afternoon to relax. Check out the small-town charm of Packwood, grab a coffee at the Mountain Goat Coffee Company , and explore local shops.

Where to Eat in Packwood

• Budget: Cliff Droppers – Known for its hearty burgers and casual atmosphere.
• Mid-Range: Blue Spruce Saloon and Grill – A great spot for a classic American meal.
• High-End: The Copper Creek Inn – A bit further out, but worth it for a memorable dining experience.

Day 5: Conquering the Skyline Trail and Heading Back to Seattle

Morning: Skyline Trail at Mt. Rainier
On your last day in Mt. Rainier National Park , tackle the Skyline Trail . This 5.5-mile loop is one of the most famous hikes in the park, offering up-close views of Mt. Rainier and the chance to see marmots, wildflowers, and perhaps even mountain goats. The trail can be challenging, with some steep sections, but the views are worth every step.

Pet Note: Since the Skyline Trail is not pet-friendly, make arrangements for pet care if you have a dog with you.

Evening: Drive to Seattle and Enjoy a Nice Dinner
After your hike, make your way back to Seattle (about a 2.5-hour drive). End your adventure with a nice dinner in downtown Seattle. We recommend The Pink Door , an Italian restaurant with a whimsical, bohemian atmosphere and a delicious menu.

Where to Stay in Seattle

• Budget: The Belltown Inn – Conveniently located, budget-friendly, and dog-friendly!
• Mid-Range: Hotel Max – A boutique hotel with a creative flair, perfect for art lovers.
• High-End: Fairmont Olympic Hotel – A luxurious, historic property with top-notch amenities and service.

Day 6: Departure

After a whirlwind adventure through Washington’s most beautiful parks, it’s time to head home. Depending on your flight time, take a leisurely stroll through Pike Place Market or grab a coffee at one of Seattle’s iconic cafes before heading to the airport.

Final Thoughts

From coastal hikes to mountain peaks, this 6-day itinerary showcases the best of Olympic and Mt. Rainier National Parks . Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly road trip or a luxurious getaway, you’ll find plenty of options to make your trip memorable. And if you’re traveling with your dog, rest assured that there are ways to include them in the adventure.

We hope this guide inspires you to embark on your own Pacific Northwest journey. Have questions or want to share your experience? Drop a comment below!