A diverse 4-day adventure combining coastal rainforest soaks, mountain views, and a ferry journey to Orcas Island's ocean-view hot spring.
Duration
4 days
Distance
~350 miles + ferry
Difficulty
easy
Vehicle
any
Best Season
Summer and early fall (June-September)
2 springs need verification before departure. Check conditions and official sources before visiting.
Soak at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort in Olympic National Park, then explore the surrounding rainforest trails including the short hike to Sol Duc Falls.
Springs
Drive to the coast and explore Rialto Beach or Ruby Beach, then head to Lake Quinault for evening relaxation in the temperate rainforest.
Drive to Anacortes and take the ferry to Orcas Island. Soak at Doe Bay Hot Spring with ocean views and island relaxation.
Springs
Ferry required. Check schedules at WSDOT Ferries or Alaska Marine Highway. Have a backup plan if sailing is full or canceled.
Explore Orcas Island's hiking trails, waterfalls, and beaches. Enjoy a final morning soak at Doe Bay before catching the ferry back to Anacortes.
Springs
Ferry required. Check schedules at WSDOT Ferries or Alaska Marine Highway. Have a backup plan if sailing is full or canceled.
The Olympic Peninsula Circuit is a four-day journey through Washington’s most diverse landscapes: temperate rainforest, wild Pacific coast, and the San Juan Islands. The centerpiece is a ferry crossing to Orcas Island, where Doe Bay Hot Spring offers one of the most scenic soaks in the Pacific Northwest, perched above the Salish Sea.
This is an easy trip suitable for all fitness levels. The driving is straightforward, the soaks are accessible, and the lodging options range from historic lodges to island resorts.
The Washington State Ferries Anacortes-Orcas Island route requires advance planning:
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is nestled in the Sol Duc Valley of Olympic National Park. Three mineral-rich pools at different temperatures sit surrounded by old-growth forest. The resort offers cabin lodging, a restaurant, and access to trails including the popular Sol Duc Falls hike.
The Lake Quinault area is the heart of the temperate rainforest. While not a hot springs destination, the historic Lake Quinault Lodge (built in 1926) is worth the stop for its Roosevelt-era architecture, rainforest trails, and lakeside setting. It’s a peaceful overnight between the coast and the ferry.
Doe Bay Resort on Orcas Island is the crown jewel of this itinerary. The clothing-optional hot spring sits on a rocky point above the bay, with views of the San Juan Islands and, on clear days, the Olympic Mountains. The resort also offers yoga classes, massage, and organic food at the Doe Bay Cafe.
Tip: Doe Bay is a popular destination and the soaking area is small. Visit early morning or evening for the most peaceful experience. Day passes are available if you’re not staying overnight.