Setting Sail to Bainbridge Island

Our adventure began with a ferry ride from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, a journey that set the tone for the day with its breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline and the tranquil waters of Puget Sound. As a family travel writer, I always look for experiences that offer both excitement and relaxation, and this ferry ride was the perfect blend. The kids were thrilled to be on a boat, and the 30-minute crossing gave us just enough time to soak in the scenery and prepare for the day ahead.

Once we arrived on Bainbridge Island, our driver, Bob, greeted us with a warm smile and reassured us that we had the entire day to enjoy the sights. This was music to my ears, as I know how important it is to have a flexible schedule when traveling with children. Bob’s easygoing nature made us feel at ease as we embarked on our journey to the Olympic Animal Game Farm.

A Wild Encounter at the Olympic Animal Game Farm

The Olympic Animal Game Farm was a highlight of our trip, offering a unique drive-thru safari experience that delighted both the kids and the adults. We stocked up on loaves of bread to feed the animals, and I must say, watching the kids’ faces light up as bison and llamas approached our car was priceless. The laughter and joy in the car were infectious, and it reminded me why I love sharing these experiences with my family.

As we slowly made our way through the farm, we encountered a variety of animals, from Tibetan yaks to zebras. The kids were fascinated, and I appreciated the opportunity to teach them about different species in such an interactive way. It’s moments like these that make family travel so rewarding, and I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the chance to create such lasting memories with my children.

Hiking to Marymere Falls

After our wild adventure, we headed to Hurricane Ridge, where the temperature dropped significantly as we ascended the mountain. The views were stunning, but the sudden fog and snow added an unexpected twist to our visit. Despite the chilly weather, the kids were excited to see deer roaming freely in the snow-covered areas, and it was a magical sight.

Our final stop was Lake Crescent and the hike to Marymere Falls. The trail through the ancient forest was peaceful, and the kids enjoyed the challenge of the hike. Although our driver, Bob, took off ahead of us, we managed to find our way using trail signs and a trusty map on my phone. The waterfall was a beautiful reward at the end of our hike, and we took our time to capture the moment with photos.

As we made our way back to the parking lot, we received messages from our fellow travelers urging us to hurry. It seemed Bob was concerned about his schedule, which added a bit of tension to the end of our day. However, the overall experience was positive, and we returned to Seattle with a sense of accomplishment and a treasure trove of memories.

In conclusion, exploring Olympic National Park from Seattle was an unforgettable experience for our family. Despite a few hiccups, the beauty of the park and the joy of sharing it with my children made it all worthwhile. If you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure that combines nature, wildlife, and a touch of excitement, I highly recommend this trip. Just be sure to pack extra bread for the animals and a sense of adventure for the unexpected!