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If you’re considering sending a teenager off on an outdoor adventure in Washington’s stunning Olympic National Park, this 6-day backpacking summer camp from Lasting Adventures might just be your best bet. It promises a week filled with hiking beside high alpine lakes, weaving on and off ocean beaches, and learning skills that could turn a kid into a lifelong outdoor enthusiast. With highly positive reviews and a reputation as one of the “Best Backpacking Programs for Youth out West” (by Outside Magazine), this trip sounds like a memorable, meaningful experience—if your teen is up for a week of rugged outdoor living.
One note of caution: this isn’t a trip for couch potatoes or those quick to complain about sore feet. It’s designed to challenge teens physically and mentally, fostering leadership and outdoor skills while having fun. It’s a full immersion into nature, with long days of hiking, camp cooking, and campfire stories. Potential participants should have a moderate physical fitness level, and parents should realize that navigating such terrain isn’t a walk in the park—literally.
What we love about this adventure? First, it’s led by professional outdoor educators who are committed to safety and teaching meaningful skills. Second, the itinerary offers a well-balanced mix of challenging hikes and relaxing beach days with stunning ocean views. Yet, for all its strengths, consider the cost—$2,400 per person—for a full camping experience that requires some gear, but also provides essentials like backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and planned meals.
Highlights of the 6-Day Olympic National Park Teen Backpacking Trip
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and caring outdoor educators guide every step, making the experience safe and educational.
- Stunning scenery: Expect views of high alpine lakes, waterfalls, and rugged coastlines—many of which are picture-perfect sunsets.
- Skill-building: From navigation to camp cooking, teens learn practical outdoor skills that last a lifetime.
- Group Dynamics: Small groups (max 10 teens) allow for personalized attention and forge strong friendships.
- Balanced Adventure: Combining challenging hikes with relaxing beach camps keeps the energy and excitement high.
- Pre-arranged logistics: Staying at campgrounds with amenities on Day 1 alleviates some start-up stress and focuses on the adventure ahead.
Day 1: Lake Crescent and Fairholme Campground
Meet your guides and fellow campers at Fairholme Campground beside Lake Crescent, a spot famous for its crystal-clear waters and tranquility. This allows easy access for parents dropping off their teens—saving 1-2 hours of driving time and ensuring a smooth start. Here, everyone gets to know each other around a campfire, setting the tone for a week of camaraderie and adventure.
Day 2: Ocean Coast to Chilean Memorial Campsite
Transport takes you approximately an hour south to Rialto Beach, where the real coastline adventures begin. Hiking along the rugged coast, you’ll reach the Chilean Memorial Campsite, passing tide pools and dramatic rock formations. This includes a flattened 3.8-mile hike—great for easing into backpacking and enjoying spectacular views.
Day 3: Norwegian Memorial
This day offers a more relaxed pace—hiking only around 6 miles across flatter terrain. It’s described as a “layover day,” giving teens a chance to learn new outdoor skills, relax at camp, or explore the surroundings. The gentle trail offers views of the ocean and forested moorlands, suitable even for those with slightly less experience in backpacking.
Day 4–5: Yellow Banks and Cape Alava
Hiking about 5.5 miles each day, these days take you further north along the coast. The trail includes a mix of forest and beach, with some of the most spectacular ocean views. Camp at Cape Alava, the westernmost point of the contiguous U.S., and enjoy the ocean breeze, sunset, and perhaps some beachcombing.
Day 6: Exit from Ozette
The final leg is the easiest—just over 3 miles back to Ozette Campground, where transportation awaits for the trip back. The route finishes with relaxed reflection on a trip packed with challenge, discovery, and beauty.
Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism and kindness of guides. One parent noted, “The guides were great and took good care of the group,” emphasizing safety and attentiveness as top priorities.
Teens who’ve gone on this trip talk about how they “made friends quickly,” and the trip has been described as “an epic adventure” that leaves lasting memories. Especially for first-time overnight campers, the experience is praised as a “peak experience,” helping them gain confidence and independence.
One reviewer shared that their 11-year-old daughter, new to carrying a large pack, was eager but slightly nervous, yet said, “My daughter was eager if mom was a little nervous. But this group… exceeded her expectations.” This hints at how the guides foster a supportive atmosphere that values both challenge and fun.
The cost of $2,400 per person covers a lot:
– All essential camping gear (backpacks, tents, sleeping bags/pads)
– Professional outdoor educators guiding every step
– All meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners) prepared with care
– The adventure itself, focusing on skills and personal growth
However, Olympic National Park entry fees ($30) are not included, so budget that extra expense. Meeting at Fairholme Campground reduces travel stress, and start times are generally around noon.
Group sizes are limited (maximum 10 teens), enabling a more personalized experience. This small-group setting helps build stronger bonds and ensures guides can respond to individual needs.
We believe the $2,400 investment is reasonable given the inclusivity of gear, guided instruction, meals, and the sheer variety of scenery experienced. The emphasis on learning outdoor skills alongside fun makes this a nourishing opportunity for young adventurers eager to tackle their first big backpacking trip or those with some experience seeking a new challenge.
Parents can rest assured that safety is paramount, with guides trained in outdoor education and group management. The trip balances challenge and fun, making each day meaningful. The inclusion of pre-arranged campgrounds with amenities on Day 1, along with the guided hikes, save you the hassle of planning so for busy families, this is a huge plus.
This adventure is best suited for teens aged 14-18 with moderate fitness levels who are eager to learn and explore. It’s a good fit for those looking to build outdoor skills, gain confidence, and experience the rugged glory of Olympic National Park. First-timers will find a gentle yet challenging introduction to multi-day backpacking, while those already familiar with hiking will find plenty of new opportunities to hone their skills and push their boundaries.
If you’re a parent worried about the physical demands, be assured that support, safety, and fun are woven into every part of this trip. Kids who enjoy environment-focused trips, beach walks, or mountain peaks will find this experience perfectly balances natural beauty with personal growth.
For adolescents curious about outdoor adventures, this trip presents a stellar opportunity to connect with nature, develop skills, and forge lasting friendships. The experienced guides and well-planned itinerary mean you’re in capable hands, allowing teens to push themselves in a supportive environment. It’s more than just a hike; it’s a chance to discover confidence, independence, and the beauty of Olympic National Park in a meaningful way.
The value lies not just in the breathtaking scenery, but also in how this program emphasizes personal growth and outdoor skills, offering something beyond a typical camp. Perfect for families seeking an authentic, safe outdoor experience that encourages teens to explore, learn, and have fun.
If your teen is adventurous, enjoys nature, and is ready for physical challenge mixed with awe-inspiring views, this is one summer camp they’ll never forget.
What is included in the cost?
The $2,400 fee covers all gear (backpacks, tents, sleeping bags/pads), meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners), guides, and campgrounds on the trip.
Are meals provided?
Yes, five breakfasts, five lunches, and five dinners are included, prepared and packed by the guides to ensure nourishment during each hiking day.
What parks or areas will we visit?
Participants will explore Olympic National Park, hiking from coastal beaches like Rialto Beach to high mountain lakes and meadows, with a focus on scenic coastal and alpine environments.
What is the difficulty level?
The trip requires moderate physical fitness and can involve hikes up to 6 miles on some days. Long days, camp chores, and packing are part of the experience.
What gear do participants need to bring?
Most gear is provided, but participants should be prepared for outdoor conditions with comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy shoes, and a positive attitude.
What are the accommodations?
The group camps at established campgrounds, staying in tents supplied by the program, with opportunities to connect and learn around campfires.
How many teens participate?
A maximum of 10 travelers per departure ensures personalized attention and safer, more cohesive groups.
When are the tours running?
The 2024 schedule runs from June to August, with specific weekly dates (e.g., June 23-28, July 7-12), and similar dates are planned for 2025.
What about park entrance fees?
The Olympic National Park entry fee ($30) is not included, so plan accordingly.
This 6-day camp offers a true taste of the wild, a chance for teens to learn skills, see beautiful scenery, and make new friends in one of the most stunning corners of the U.S. It’s well suited for adventurous families seeking a meaningful summer experience for their teens—an investment in memories that last a lifetime.
