Bainbridge Island serves as a gateway to Olympic National Park, offering a unique blend of island charm and access to stunning wilderness. Located just a 35-minute ferry ride from Seattle, Bainbridge Island provides visitors with a convenient starting point for exploring the diverse landscapes of Olympic National Park. From lush rainforests to rugged coastlines and snow-capped mountains, the park offers a wealth of natural wonders accessible from this picturesque island.
What Are the Ferry Details for Reaching Bainbridge Island?
The Seattle-Bainbridge Island ferry is a crucial link for visitors planning to explore Olympic National Park. Here’s what you need to know:
Schedule
- Weekdays (Monday-Friday):
- From Seattle: First departure at 5:30 AM, last at 10:50 PM
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From Bainbridge: First departure at 4:45 AM, last at 10:00 PM
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Weekends and Holidays:
- From Seattle: First departure at 6:10 AM, last at 10:40 PM
- From Bainbridge: First departure at 5:20 AM, last at Midnight
Costs
- Passenger Fares:
- Adult (19-64): $10.25
- Senior (65+) / Disability: $5.10
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Youth (18 and under): Free
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Vehicle Fares: Vary based on size and type, collected at both terminals
Travel Time and Accessibility
- Ferry ride duration: 35 minutes
- No reservations required for walk-on passengers or vehicles
- Seattle terminal location: Colman Dock, Pier 52, 801 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA
How Can Visitors Access Olympic National Park from Bainbridge Island?
After arriving on Bainbridge Island, visitors have several options to reach Olympic National Park:
- Drive: Approximately 2 hours to the park’s main entrance
- Public Transportation: Limited options available, may require multiple transfers
- Guided Tours: Several companies offer day trips from Bainbridge Island to Olympic National Park
What Are the Must-See Hiking Trails in Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park boasts an array of hiking trails suitable for various skill levels:
- Hurricane Ridge Trail
- Length: 3.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
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Highlights: Panoramic mountain views, wildflower meadows
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Hoh River Trail
- Length: 17.3 miles to Blue Glacier (shorter options available)
- Difficulty: Strenuous
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Highlights: Lush rainforest, diverse wildlife
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Ruby Beach Trail
- Length: Short walk from parking area
- Difficulty: Easy
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Highlights: Dramatic sea stacks, tidepools
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Lake Crescent Trail
- Length: Various options, including 1.7-mile Marymere Falls Trail
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Highlights: Crystal-clear lake, old-growth forest
Where Can Visitors Stay on Bainbridge Island?
Bainbridge Island offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets:
Hotels and Inns
- Bainbridge Island Lodging
- The Inn at Harbour House
- Bainbridge Island Beach Suites
Bed and Breakfasts
- Bainbridge Island B&B
- Inn at Shipley Bay
Vacation Rentals
- Various houses and apartments available through Airbnb and VRBO
Pricing
| Accommodation Type | Price Range (per night) |
|---|---|
| Hotels and Inns | $150 – $300 |
| Bed and Breakfasts | $120 – $250 |
| Vacation Rentals | $100 – $300 |
Most accommodations are within a 10-20 minute drive from the ferry terminal and offer amenities such as free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and scenic views.
What Are the Best Viewpoints in Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park offers several breathtaking viewpoints accessible from Bainbridge Island:
- Hurricane Ridge
- Accessibility: Paved road to viewpoint
- Best time to visit: Clear days for optimal mountain views
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Activities: Hiking, skiing, wildlife viewing
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Ruby Beach
- Accessibility: Short walk from parking area
- Best time to visit: Low tide for tidepool exploration
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Activities: Beachcombing, photography
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Lake Crescent
- Accessibility: Paved road access
- Best time to visit: Year-round
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Activities: Boating, fishing, hiking
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Hoh Rainforest
- Accessibility: Short walk from visitor center
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall for optimal hiking conditions
- Activities: Nature walks, photography
How Can Visitors Make the Most of Their Bainbridge Island Olympic National Park Experience?
To maximize your Bainbridge Island Olympic National Park adventure:
- Plan your ferry crossing in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Consider staying on Bainbridge Island for easy park access
- Check trail conditions and obtain necessary permits before hiking
- Visit diverse areas of the park to experience its varied ecosystems
- Bring appropriate gear for changing weather conditions
- Respect wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles
By following these tips and exploring the highlights of both Bainbridge Island and Olympic National Park, visitors can create an unforgettable Pacific Northwest experience.
References:
– https://www.bainbridgeisland.com/ferry/
– https://www.hikeolympic.com/ferries
– https://wsdot.com/ferries/schedule/scheduledetailbyroute.aspx?route=sea-bi