Public Bus from Seatac to Lake Quinault

Ride the bus from Seatac to Lake Quinault, Olympic National Forest.  This is done by utilizing four different buses from the city to the rain forest.  It takes a rider roughly takes 6 hours to get from the airport to the Lake Quinault Lodge.

Public transportation is the perfect solution to save money. This also gives the option to backpack inside the Park interior; with a 15 mile road walk. A visitor who does not wanting to rent a expensive car; may also benefit.  Extra planning is needed for a successful adventure.





bus quinault
Bus from Seatac to Lake Quinault




Bus Route (Mostly Weekdays Only - Subject to Change)



  • Seatac bus stop - get on bus 574 - $3.50
  • Lakewood SR 512 Park and Ride - get on 605 - $3.50
  • Downtown Olympia Station - get on 40 Grays Harbor Transit - $3.00
  • Aberdeen Station - get on 50 to Quinault - $1.00


This could be done at 7am to 12:30pm - A traveler can do most of the transportation planning using Google Maps.  I suggest always cross-checking schedule and cost by going to each individual bus information on their websites.  Not going to detail the times, because they can change without notice.



Adventures Near Quinault, Wa (Once You Arrive)


There are a few adventure options after arriving in Quinault, Washington.  Overnight options are the Willaby Creek Campground, the Lodge (cost) or heading off backpacking Olympic National Park (get permit at Ranger Station).

Don't forget there are local hiking trails right in Quinault.  This is a perfect way to get experience the rain forest; as a first time visitors.  

The experienced backpacker can walk into the Colonel Bob Wilderness from the bus stop; with a 5 mile road walk.  This should only be attempted by a strong hiker, because of elevation change and limited flat ground on the trail.    A hiker must walk to Moonshine Flats for limited campsites; 6 miles and over 4,000' uphill. Need more info? Check out my guide to the Olympic National Forest.



Last updated by Barefoot Jake in August 2017