Surrounding Seattle, three National Parks make their home in the Cascade Range of Washington. Olympic, North Cascades, and Mt. Rainier National Parks display the beauty of glacial peaks, dense rain forest, and pristine coastline. Visit all three parks, plus tours of the big city and surrounding communities.
DAY 1—WELCOME TO WASHINGTON!
Travel to Seattle and arrive for a warm welcome dinner with new friends. D
DAY 2—SEATTLE TOUR
Today we’ll experience a full day tour of the “Emerald City” with a local guide. Ascend to the top of the Space Needle for endless views and enjoy time at Pike Place Market before this evening’s dinner at a charming local restaurant. B, D
DAY 3—PORT ANGELES/ WHALE WATCHING CRUISE
This morning we travel across Puget Sound for a memorable stay on the Olympic Peninsula. Search for Humpback Whales and Orca aboard a lunchtime cruise, and enjoy leisure time to enjoy the beautiful city of Port Angeles. From our centrally located hotel, enjoy a walk on the pier, shops and restaurants, and nearby attractions. B, L
DAY 4—OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK
Today we journey into the mountains of Hurricane Ridge within Olympic National Park. We’ll stop at the Visitor Center to learn about the park directly from rangers. After time to explore the exhibits, travel up Olympic’s scenic road for beautiful 365-degree views and time to enjoy the area. B, D.
DAY 5—WHIDBEY ISLAND
This morning we board the Washington State Ferry for a day of touring scenic Whidbey Island. Our group will join a local guide for a behind-the-scenes look at Fort Casey, Admiralty Head Lighthouse, and the Langley Whale Center. Together we’ll enjoy a visit to Blooms Winery, plus leisure time to see this peaceful island community. B, L
DAY 6—NORTH CASCADES NATIONAL PARK
Spend the day exploring one of America’s best kept secrets, North Cascades National Park and the Ross Lake Recreation Area. With views of shimmering turquoise lakes and snowy mountain peaks, it may be hard to believe that North Cascades is one of our nation’s least visited National Parks. B, L, D
DAY 7—BOEING FACTORY TOUR
Our exihibition continues today as we experience the world of flight at the Boeing Factory Tour. Then it’s off to Mt. Rainier National Park for a scenic drive up the mountain before checking into historic Paradise Inn for a special two night stay. As one of the first National Park lodges, Paradise Inn opened in 1916 and features a grand lobby, an elegant dining room, and a 14,000-foot peak outside the front door. B, D
DAY 8—MT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK
Enjoy a full day at what John Muir called, “the most luxuriant and the most extravagantly beautiful of all the alpine gardens I have ever beheld in all my mountain-top wanderings.” Join your choice of ranger programs from informative talks to guided walks. With views of the peak, access to nearby trails, and a beautiful hotel, there is no shortage of things to do during your day at Mt. Rainier. B
DAY 9—TACOMA
The mountain views continue as we travel through the western portion of the park today. Watch as the alpine ecosystem transforms into a thick temperate rainforest all around as we arrive to the Museum of Glass where we’ll walk along the Chihuly Bridge of Glass, a pedestrian walkway adorned with colorful glass installations by prominent artists. Enjoy one last dinner together before our final overnight stay. B, D
DAY 10—HOME
Travel home this morning, taking with you mountain memories of Washington State. B
Quality Accommodations
Nights 1-2: Hilton Garden Inn Airport, Seattle
Nights 3-4: Red Lion, Port Angeles Harbor
Night 5: Holiday Inn Express, Burlington
Nights 6: Hampton Inn, Everett (or similar)
Nights 7-8: Paradise Inn, Mt. Rainier National Park
Night 9: Hilton Garden Inn Airport, Seattle
Dates:
Aug 6-15, 2024
Price Per Person:
Double $3,557
Single $4,875
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
$278/night
Depart/Return:
Seattle, WA
Inclusions:
Free airport shuttle or hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, Hilton Garden Inn Airport Seattle, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 p.m.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport anytime on Day 10.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to/from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. If you are driving to the starting location, they also offer complimentary parking for the duration of the tour.
Walking Distance
Moderate walking is required to fully enjoy this tour. Some walking will also be on uneven paths. This tour also features multiple train rides, and there are several large steps involved in getting on and off the trains. While walking canes are allowed, we are unable to accommodate travelers using other mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
August – high of 72°, low of 57°
Time Zone
Pacific
Hotel Amenities
Each hotel has a hair dryer, iron, ironing boards, and a coffee maker.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on Tour is Casual.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
