Susan

We will be traveling to Seattle/ Vancouver/ & Victoria for our honeymoon in July. We have planned 3 nights in Seattle, left the fourth night open, then 2 nights in Victoria, and 2 more nights in Vancouver. My question: What should we do on the 4th night? Is Mt Olympus a good idea? What is the best way to get there? Do we have to drive back to Seattle to catch the ferry to Victoria? Thanks.

sheri

Are you climbers or backpackers? It's a long hike to Mt. Olympus--too long to do as a day hike. I think the shortest trail is from the Hoh...17 miles one way.

ldsant

I would recommend a day trip to either Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens, or the Olympic National Forest. You could also do some kayaking on the sound and then stay in a B/B. Go to Vashon, Camano, or Bainbridge Islands for the day, etc. I agree about Mt. Olympus - too much for one day. As far as the ferry - yes, it leaves from the pier in Seattle so you would have to drive to Seattle unless you're going to leave from Vancouver.

Sarah

Another option is to drive up to Anacortes from Seattle and take the ferry over to the San Juan Islands for Night 4. From there you could then take the ferry on to Victoria.

Susan

Thanks for your input. We are not climbers or backpackers. More like walkers and sight see-ers. I think The Olympic National Forest would be a great idea. Any suggestions on which part of the park or specific sights that we should focus on. Also, is there anyplace to stay overnight in or near the Forest or would it be best to just drive back to Seattle at night?

sheri

For a one-nighter from Seattle, I'd head out toward the Port Angeles area, taking in Port Townsend (a historic Victorian town), Hurricane Ridge (gorgeous mountain scenery and good short hikes) and Lake Crescent (a beautiful glacially formed lake in the National Park--do the hike to Marymere Falls if you come out here).

There are plenty of places to stay in Port Angeles, Sequim or Port Townsend. Since you're on your honeymoon, I'd recommend Colette's B&B near PA--it's definitely one of the best romantic B&Bs around, although it's not inexpensive.

You can then take the ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria, although if at all possible, you should turn your trip around so that you do it in reverse, as the lines on that ferry are HOURS long (no reservations). At least if you take it from Victoria, you can do things in downtown Victoria while you're waiting. There's not as much to do in downtown PA.