15 Day Hiking Tour
Pacific Northwest
U.S.A.
$5,900 USD (per person/double occupancy)
$7,300 USD (single)
Inquire for family/group bookings
Alternate length tours available
Summary
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The very best of Washington, Idaho and Montana
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Includes the San Juan Islands, The Cascade Range, Panhandle of Idaho and Glacier National Park
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Hikes range from short walks to an optional 18 miler over generally easy to moderate terrain
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Stay at unique and comfortable accommodations in nature
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Group size limited to 8
Day 1.
From your Seattle accommodation we drive northwards to the port town of Anacortes. Before boarding the ferry we will take in the views from a vantage point at what you will be enjoying for the next few days, the San Juan Islands. Following the hour long picturesque boat ride to Orcas Island we will take a 3 mile (5km) amble up Turtleback Mountain to get our bearings and gaze over the surrounding islands. Legs stretched, we drive through island landscape, with Puget Sound permeating every scene, to our accommodation for the next three days - Doe Bay Resort. Lets get settled then enjoy a stroll, an incredible meal and a hot soak, in any particular order.
Day 2.
A reasonably strenuous half day hike ascending and partially circumnavigating the highest peak in the San Juan Islands, Mt Constitution. You will be justly rewarded with incredible vistas of mountain lakes, sprawling islands, and distant snow capped volcanoes. An afternoon of relaxation (massage and/or soak), or not (yoga or kayak) at Doe Bay.
Day 3.
A circumnavigation of mystical ‘Mountain Lake’ in the morning followed by time to lunch and explore around the islands biggest small town Eastsound. A quaint walkable center brimming with artisans and deliciousness among a beautiful backdrop. An afternoon short walk to Obstruction Pass to discover how much diversity one small island can hold. Dinner and a short explore at the historical and classy Rosario Resort Mansion.
Day 4.
Known as the crown jewel of the San Juan Islands, we ferry out to, and spend the best part of a day, exploring the Marine State Park of Sucia Island. This uniquely shaped wonder is home to abundant aquatic and bird life. You will likely expend all the energy you can afford exploring its pathways, coves, and pristine beaches. Surely hungry, we will have a final evening meal in Eastsound.
Day 5.
After a morning ferry back to the mainland we will drive the North Cascades Highway via the foothills and up through the photogenic granite peaks. Stops for fresh Washington State fare, and short walks to stunning overlooks will give you a taste of the region. Stroll the local paths of scenic Mazama before a restful eve and a hot soak at the tiny town's cozy Country Inn.
Day 6.
Walk high into the Cascade Peaks to see the magic of the Maple Pass Loop. You’ll benefit from walking poles on this steep and strenuous-at-times half day hike. The exertion is a small price to pay for this picture perfect scenery. After a rest we will spend the evening exploring the fun and unique western themed town of Winthrop. Many great eating options for dinner here.
Day 7.
A morning drive through the lovely Methow Valley and observe the scenery change through Eastern Washington State before we arrive to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. State number two. This well placed lake front town is our base for the next three days. Take the afternoon and eve to walk nearby Tubbs Hill and the local downtown art scene before dining at one of many options.
Day 8.
Hike part of, or bike, the unforgettable Hiawatha Trail. In the Bitterroot mountains bordering Idaho and Montana the 15 mile (24km) historical rail trail crosses 7 sky high trestles and ducks through 10 train tunnels. Bikers have the option of navigating the 1.7 mile (2.7km) Taft Tunnel. You’ll be given bright headlights to navigate this incredible piece of engineering. In the afternoon discover interesting local history, the center of the universe, fun antique stores, and great food in the town of Wallace- where every downtown building is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Day 9.
Hike or bike The Trail of the Coeur d’Alene’s. Also a converted rail trail, this flat paved portion winds through a stunning valley of wetlands and beside a river where you will see lots of local wildlife. Dine at the way point of small town Harrison, a charming stop with a great lake vista.
Day 10.
Bags packed we head north into the panhandle of Idaho. With forever views of Canada and neighboring states we will summit Scotchmans Peak. Often greeted by the local goats you will carefully eat your lunch with one eye on your sandwich and the other alert for the friendly four legged mountain climbers. Explore, dine and stay in another spectacular lakeside town, Sandpoint.
Day 11.
Drive to your Glacier National Park accommodations through even more beautiful scenery with occasional stops at places of interest and lunch. Welcome to Montana, your third state, in a different time zone. Following an afternoon hike to stretch the legs we will settle into our three night accommodations at the Izzac Walton Inn. We hope the train caboose accommodations will be available for your stay. Early bookings needed.
Day 12.
Enter the world of Glacier National Park. The drive up the Going to the Sun Road is breathtaking and world famous for obvious reasons. It doesn’t stop there. We park right near the top of the pass and start hiking the popular Highline Trail Loop. At every step and every turn you have absolutely spectacular scenery as you follow the Continental Divide. You’ll hardly notice the 12 miles (19km) of easy trail.
Day 13.
Drive to Polebridge, a tiny isolated haven in the very north west of Glacier National Park- a stone's throw from Canada. Marvel at views, visit the 'best bakery in the universe', and take some easy strolls. It’s another big day tomorrow.
Day 14.
Did we save the best for last? Possibly. The GNP’s Dawson Pass and Pitamakan Pass Loop. It is a long day filled with the some of the best vistas you will see, ever. We can take a ferry ride to shorten the hike a few miles, or, knowing they will be the last of the trip, can opt to continue walking through. It’s all good, every stride. Stay in the resort town of Whitefish, Montana. An abundant choice of fantastic restaurants are available to nourish your day’s efforts.
Day 15.
After a easy morning in Whitefish to explore and shop we drive to Spokane, Washington. Your final destination and departure city. Stops for a soak at a hot springs if desired and a peruse through small town America on the way. It’s always fascinating. A final celebratory meal in downtown Spokane to share our stories and say goodbye.