# Optimum Adventures > Choose adventure. ## Posts - [How to Avoid Crowds in the Outdoors in Washington and Beyond](https://optimumadventures.com/avoid-crowds-in-the-outdoors/): Updated: February 5, 2026 Table of Contents Are the Outdoors Actually Crowded? If you’ve recreated outside for any amount of time, you’re well aware that trying to avoid crowds in the outdoors is an often an ever-present problem. I’m fortunate to live in Washington, a state that’s special for many reasons. But perhaps its greatest treasure is its proximity to some of the best natural beauty and outdoor recreation the U.S. has to offer. The sheer variety of outdoor adventures available in Washington—within just a few hours’ drive from Seattle—would take multiple lifetimes to fully explore.  Yet, despite the state’s abundance […] - [Why Washington is an Ideal Place for Packrafting](https://optimumadventures.com/washington-packrafting/): Updated: February 5, 2026 Photo credit: Cynthia Wong Imagine an outdoor recreation discipline that has it all. The adrenaline rush of charging down raging whitewater, the unrivaled serenity of having an alpine lake all to yourself, and the unrestricted creative pursuit of being able to conjure up any land and water adventure on a map. That’s not just packrafting… that’s Washington packrafting! My first time in a packraft was in the middle of Rainy Lake just outside of North Cascades National Park. After paddling out to the center of the alpine lake, I found myself surrounded by turquoise waters and […] ## Pages - [Goat Lake Overnight Tour](https://optimumadventures.com/tours/alpine-lake-kayaking-tours/alpine-lake-overnight-tours/goat-lake-overnight-tour/): Experience our one-of-a-kind Goat Lake Overnight Tour, where you’ll backpack into the heart of the Washington Cascades before spending two unforgettable days paddling, camping, and exploring one of the state’s most breathtaking alpine lakes. As our flagship adventure, it’s the most complete—and relaxing—way to experience the Cascades. Because why just hike to an alpine lake when you can paddle it! Select photo credits: Nikolas Parks of Frame Focus Photography, and Cynthia Wong Goat Lake Overnight Tour Info Goat Lake Overnight Tour Description Your adventure begins with a scenic drive along the Mountain Loop Highway before meeting your guide at the […] - [Goat Lake Day Tour](https://optimumadventures.com/tours/alpine-lake-kayaking-tours/alpine-lake-day-tours/goat-lake-day-tour/): Experience our one-of-a-kind Goat Lake Tour, where you’ll hike one of Washington’s most beautiful forest trails before paddling beneath towering Cascade peaks on a breathtaking alpine lake. As our flagship location, it’s the ultimate way to experience the beauty, solitude, and wilderness of the Washington Cascades – all in a day. Because why just hike to an alpine lake when you can paddle it! Select photo credits: Nikolas Parks of Frame Focus Photography, and Cynthia Wong Goat Lake Tour Info Goat Lake Tour Description Your Goat Lake adventure begins with a stunning scenic drive along the Mountain Loop Highway before […] - [Snow Lake Day Tour](https://optimumadventures.com/tours/alpine-lake-kayaking-tours/alpine-lake-day-tours/snow-lake-day-tour/): Experience our one-of-a-kind Snow Lake tour, where you’ll hike through the Cascade Mountains before paddling one of Washington’s most spectacular alpine lakes. Less than an hour from Seattle, it’s a breathtaking and unforgettable adventure unlike any other. Because why just hike to an alpine lake when you can paddle it! Select photo credits: Nikolas Parks of Frame Focus Photography Snow Lake Tour Info Snow Lake Tour Description Your Snow Lake adventure begins with a beautiful drive into the Cascade Mountains, less than an hour from Seattle, before meeting your guide at the trailhead. After getting fitted with your hiking and […] - [Lake 22 Day Tour](https://optimumadventures.com/tours/alpine-lake-kayaking-tours/alpine-lake-day-tours/lake-22-day-tour/): Take our one-of-a-kind Lake 22 tour, where you’ll combine hiking and kayaking for the rare opportunity to paddle a breathtaking alpine lake deep in the Washington Cascades. It’s an adventure unlike anything else near Seattle! Because why just hike to an alpine lake when you can paddle it! Select photo credits: Nikolas Parks of Frame Focus Photography Lake 22 Tour Info Lake 22 Tour Description Your Lake 22 tour begins with a scenic drive along the Mountain Loop Highway before meeting your guide at the trailhead, where all of your hiking and paddling gear will be ready to go. After […] - [Alpine Lake Kayaking Tours](https://optimumadventures.com/tours/alpine-lake-kayaking-tours/) - [Rentals](https://optimumadventures.com/rentals/) - [Our Packrafts](https://optimumadventures.com/rentals/our-packrafts/): As Washington’s first and only dedicated packrafting company, we are serious about our packraft fleet. We pride ourselves in hand-selecting packrafts that suit the needs of the Washington packrafter. Our packrafts are incredibly versatile and cover all the types of adventures you can find here in the Pacific Northwest. Whether looking to paddle an alpine lake, charge down a whitewater river, traverse the an urban lake, or enjoy a multi-day river trip, our packrafts can do it all. We also take great pride in taking exceptional care of all of our packrafts and rental gear. Our goal with our rentals […] - [Dry Suit & Wetsuit Rentals in Seattle](https://optimumadventures.com/resources/dry-suit-wetsuit-rentals/): See the information below for everything you need to get safely set up for your next cold-water paddling or packrafting adventure with the local wetsuit and dry suit rentals in Seattle. Dry Suit Rentals in Seattle Northwest Outdoor Center (NWOC) Location: Westlake, Seattle, WA Rates: $60 / day $95 / weekend $35 / additional day $195 / week Models: Kokatat Swift Entry (recommended), other various models Details: Neoprene booties included in rental Flexible pick-up and drop-off times Hours: M: 12-8p T: closed W: 12-8p TH: 12-8p F: 12-8p S: 10a-6p SU: 10a-6p Website: dry suit and wetsuit rentals page Booking: […] - [The Ultimate Packraft Buying Guide](https://optimumadventures.com/resources/packraft-buying-guide/): Looking for your perfect packraft? You’ve come to the right place with our packraft buying guide! Whether you’re seeking to purchase your first Alpacka packraft, snag another Kokopelli, or compare the differences of NRS’s models, this packraft buying guide is for you! How to Use This Buying Guide Explore the power of our ultimate packraft comparison table. Some features include: Search Ex) “Alpacka Mage” Filter Ex) Starting Price < $1,000 Sort Ex) Weight, Whitewater Rating Detailed Specs Ex) Packed Size, Floor Material, Key Features, etc. Click the button below to watch a quick video on how to use our comparison table […] - [Top Packrafting Spots in Washington (Interactive Map)](https://optimumadventures.com/resources/top-packrafting-spots-washington/): Top Packrafting Spots in Washington (Interactive Map) Looking for the top packrafting spots in Washington? Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, our interactive packrafting map makes it easy to discover incredible destinations across the state. From alpine lakes to mellow rivers and thrilling whitewater runs, you’ll find routes tailored to your skill level and adventure goals – perfect for your Alpacka, Kokopelli, or NRS packraft! Use the interactive map below to explore Washington’s best packrafting destinations and start planning your next trip. Explore the Top Packrafting Spots in Washington Use the interactive map below to discover some of […] - [Our Adventure Partners](https://optimumadventures.com/more/our-adventure-partners/): Our Adventure Partners Check out the list below to find all our partners, each playing an integral role in the success of our adventure tours, packraft rentals, and packrafting instruction at Optimum Adventures. These companies have been hand-picked for their commitment to our aligned values in: top-tier performance, innovation, and sustainability. We highly recommend supporting our incredible partners via the links provided. Doing so helps keep our adventures afloat! USFS Permits Luna Sandals Adventure Sandals Alpacka Raft Packrafts Outdoor Research Apparel Sea to Summit Dry Bags, Microfiber Towels, Cookware Aqua Bound Paddles Kokopelli Packrafts, Paddles Superior Wilderness Designs (SWD) Guide […] - [Events](https://optimumadventures.com/misc/events/): Events Sign up for our 60-second, biweekly newsletter packed with actionable advice to help you live your most adventurous life. Subscribe * indicates required First Name * Last Name * Email Address * Zip Code * - [Blog](https://optimumadventures.com/resources/blog/): Blog - [Newsletter](https://optimumadventures.com/resources/newsletter/): Adventure Newsletter Sign up for our 60-second, biweekly newsletter packed with actionable advice to help you live your most adventurous life. Newsletter Form * indicates required First Name * Last Name * Email Address * Zip Code * How did you find out about us? * - [Resources](https://optimumadventures.com/resources/) - [Packrafting](https://optimumadventures.com/misc/resources1/packrafting/): Packrafting Resources This page is designed to be you’re one-stop-shop resources for all things packrafting, esp. if you’re located in Washington State. - [Day Tour Packing list](https://optimumadventures.com/misc/day-tour-packing-list/): Day TourPacking List Please bring the following items for you Day Tour. If you have any questions about what to bring or wear, please contact us. Important Packing Information Please come to the trailhead with all of the following items. These items should be ready to be packed into a backpack immediately upon your arrival. If you have questions about any of the gear you intend to bring, please let us know. Less is More Remember… any unnecessary items you pack will be adding extra weight to your pack, and thus creating a heavier load and more strain on your body […] - [Privacy Policy](https://optimumadventures.com/footer/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy Optimum Adventures is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy outlines the types of personal information we collect, how we use and protect that information, and your rights regarding your personal data. By using our website and services, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this policy. Information We Collect Personal Information: When you book a service, sign up for our newsletter, or contact us, we may collect personal information such as your name, email address, phone number, billing address, and payment information. Non-Personal Information: We may also collect non-personal information about […] - [Terms of Use](https://optimumadventures.com/footer/terms-of-use/): Terms of Use Welcome to Optimum Adventures. By accessing and using our website, services, and products, you agree to comply with and be bound by the following terms of use. Please read these terms carefully before using our site or services. If you do not agree with any of these terms, you are prohibited from using or accessing this site. Acceptance of Terms By using our website and services, you accept and agree to be bound by these terms of use and all applicable laws and regulations. Optimum Adventures reserves the right to modify these terms at any time without […] - [Cookies Policy](https://optimumadventures.com/footer/cookies-policy/): Cookies Policy Optimum Adventures uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and to help us improve our website and services. This Cookies Policy explains what cookies are, how we use them, and your choices regarding their use. What are Cookies? Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, smartphone, or other internet-enabled devices) when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently, as well as to provide information to the website owners. Types of Cookies We Use Essential Cookies: These cookies are necessary for the website to function properly. They […] - [Cancellation Policy](https://optimumadventures.com/footer/cancellation-policy/): Cancellation Policy Making a Deposit To reserve space for any of our offerings, full payment is required at the time of booking. If you have any questions or need to discuss exceptions, please contact us directly. Cancellations and Refunds We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation and refund policies are designed to account for the various costs associated with organizing and preparing your adventure. These costs include but are not limited to: gear rental, food purchases, space rentals, time spent planning the trip, and the opportunity cost of not being able to book other customers. Below are our detailed […] - [News & Press](https://optimumadventures.com/forms/news-press/): News & Press Stay Updated with Optimum Adventures Welcome to the News & Press page of Optimum Adventures. Here, you can find the latest updates and information about our activities, as well as resources for media professionals. If you’re interested in including Optimum Adventures in your press releases or stories, you’ve come to the right place Media Inquiries For all media inquiries, interview requests, or to include Optimum Adventures in your publications, please fill out our form below, and we look forward to collaborating with you and providing any information you need! News & Press Form * indicates required First […] - [FAQ](https://optimumadventures.com/footer/faq/): FrequentLy Asked Questions (FAQs) Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about our tours, rentals, courses, and other offerings. Whether you’re planning your first adventure with us or are a returning guest, this section aims to provide you with all the essential information you need for an unforgettable experience. What level of fitness do I need to go on the tours? We have offerings for a variety of fitness levels. A high level of fitness is recommended for our Day Tour, medium for our Overnight Tour, and nearly all fitness levels can accommodate our Rentals and Courses. Please […] - [Employment](https://optimumadventures.com/forms/employment/): Employment Join Our Team at Optimum Adventures Are you passionate about outdoor adventures and helping others explore the great outdoors? Optimum Adventures is always looking for enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join our team. Whether you’re interested in guiding, operations, commission sales, or marketing positions, we want to hear from you. Current Opportunities We offer a range of positions to suit various skills and interests. Explore the opportunities below and fill out the form if you’re interested: Course Partners: Collaborate with us to co-host packrafting instructional courses on permitted flatwater or Class 2 whitewater, ensuring compliance and delivering top-notch training […] - [Footer](https://optimumadventures.com/footer/) - [Coming Soon](https://optimumadventures.com/misc/coming-soon/): Coming Soon! Stay tuned… Sign up below! Looks like this isn’t quite ready yet, but sign up using our newsletter below to stay tuned for it becomes available! In the meantime, stay adventurous! - [Day Tour - Inquiry](https://optimumadventures.com/forms/day-tour-inquiry/): Let the Adventure Begin! Please provide us with your information by filling out the form below: Day Tour Form * indicates required First Name * Last Name * Phone Number * Email Address * Zip Code * Preferred Tour * Lake 22 ~ Day Tour | (M-TH only, May – Oct.) Snow Lake ~ Day Tour | (M-TH only, July – Sept.) Goat Lake ~ Day Tour | (May – Oct.) Preferred Date * / / ( mm / dd / yyyy ) Tour Party Size 1234 5 ~ n/a for Overnight Tour 6 ~ n/a for Overnight Tour Additional […] - [Overnight Tour - Inquiry](https://optimumadventures.com/forms/overnight-tour-inquiry/): Let the Adventure Begin! Please provide us with your information by filling out the form below: Overnight Tour Form * indicates required First Name * Last Name * Phone Number * Email Address * Zip Code * Preferred Tour Start Date * / / ( mm / dd / yyyy ) Tour Party Size 1234 5 ~ n/a for Overnight Tour 6 ~ n/a for Overnight Tour Additional Info How did you find out about us? * Newsletter Opt-in Yes, send me high-value, unique tips on how to live a more adventurous life! Success! We may be in the mountains, […] - [Rentals - Inquiry](https://optimumadventures.com/forms/rentals-inquiry/): Let the Adventure Begin! Book your packraft rental by filling out the form below. We’ll then get back to you shortly to complete the rental process and get your adventure in motion! Packraft Rental Form * indicates required First Name * Last Name * Phone Number * Email Address * Zip Code * Packrafts Needed (Qty.) * Pick-up Date (6pm) * / / ( dd / mm / yyyy ) Drop-off Date (6pm) * / / ( dd / mm / yyyy ) Type of Packrafting * Alpine lakeWhitewaterScenic riverLakeUrbanBikeraftingSound / seaOther Packrafting Experience * It’s all new to me!Knowledgeable […] - [Misc.](https://optimumadventures.com/misc/) - [Forms](https://optimumadventures.com/forms/) - [More](https://optimumadventures.com/more/) - [Optimum Adventures](https://optimumadventures.com/): Where Adventure Awaits Photo credit: Cynthia Wong Welcome to Optimum Adventures! We help people live their most adventurous lives through one-of-a-kind adventure tours, packraft rentals, packrafting instruction, and adventure resources! Choose Your Adventure Hiking, Paddling Alpine Lake KayakingDay Tours Half – Full Day Locations: VariousSeason: May – OctoberMax. Party size: 6Difficulty:  Moderate to StrenuousMin. Age:  14 From $179 Learn More Backpacking, Paddling Alpine Lake KayakingOvernight Tour 2 Days Location:  Goat Lake, WASeason: June – OctoberMax. Party size: 4Difficulty:  ModerateMin. Age:  14 From $479 Learn More Packrafting PackraftRentals 1-7+ Days Rental Location:  Seattle, WAPackraft Types: ~ Lightweight, Whitewater, TandemSeason: Year-roundMin. Age:  18 (renter) From $49 Learn […] - [Contact](https://optimumadventures.com/more/contact/): Photo credit: Cynthia Wong For questions about our day tour or overnight tour, rentals, or resources, reach out to us via the form below and we’ll get back to you as quickly as we can. Contact Page Form * indicates required First Name * Last Name * Phone Number * ( ) – (###) ###-#### Email Address * Zip Code * Message * How did you find out about us? * Newsletter Opt-in * Yes, send me high-value, unique tips on how to live a more adventurous life! Not today, adventure can wait. - [Our Team](https://optimumadventures.com/more/our-team/): Meet Our Team We’re Optimum Adventures, Washington’s first and only dedicated packrafting company. Based in Seattle, we offer one-of-a-kind adventure tours, packraft rentals, and expert-led instruction designed to help our customers live their most adventurous lives. Since 2022, we’ve helped pioneer alpine lake packrafting tours in the United States and have become a leading voice for the sport in Washington. Our team is made up of genuine outdoor enthusiasts who are committed to safety, exceptional customer service, and creating unforgettable experiences for our clients. Whether you’re looking to try packrafting for the first time, explore Washington’s incredible alpine lakes in […] - [Courses](https://optimumadventures.com/packrafting-courses/): packrafting Courses Ready to embark on your packrafting journey? Fill out the form below to enroll in our Intro to Packrafting course and secure your spot today. Sign up before spots fill up! Packrafting Course Form * indicates required First Name * Last Name * Phone Number * ( ) – (###) ###-#### Email Address * Zip Code * Instruction Type * Intro to Packrafting (flatwater, Class I) Private Instruction How did you find out about us? * Google search, Google Maps, AI, word of mouth, etc. Newsletter Opt-in Yes, send me high-value, unique tips on how to live a […] - [Alpine Lake Overnight Tours](https://optimumadventures.com/tours/alpine-lake-kayaking-tours/alpine-lake-overnight-tours/): The Only Tour of Its Kind Alpine Lake Packrafting Discover the ultimate adventure in the captivating Pacific Northwest with our exclusive, multi-sport tour. Delve into the wilderness as you embark on a remarkable backpacking expedition, traverse a mesmerizing glacial alpine lake by paddling, and camp under the towering 200-foot trees – all in a single, extraordinary weekend or overnight trip. Our groundbreaking, one-of-a-kind tour reimagines travel and exploration, raising the bar for immersive, outdoor experiences. At Optimum Adventures, we pride ourselves on our distinctive approach. Our signature, overnight tour stands as the world’s only two-day alpine lake packrafting adventure! Reserving […] - [Packraft Rentals](https://optimumadventures.com/rentals/packraft-rentals/): Packraft Rentals Packrafts are a game-changing piece of outdoor gear, and packraft rentals make it easier than ever to experience their benefits firsthand. With their unmatched portability and versatility, packrafts unlock adventures that would otherwise be out of reach—making them the ultimate tool for anyone looking to explore the outdoors in a whole new way. It’s no surprise that packrafting is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing outdoor recreation sports in America. Rent Yours Now What is a Packraft? Packrafting is one of the fastest growing sports in Washington – and for good reason! A packraft is a premium, lightweight, […] - [Alpine Lake Day Tours](https://optimumadventures.com/tours/alpine-lake-kayaking-tours/alpine-lake-day-tours/): The Complete Cascade Experience, All in a Day Book Now Our Flagship Tour This single-day tour is perfect for multiple types of crowds. For those living in the Seattle area or Pacific Northwest, this extended, full-day tour is the perfect way to pack in a unique adventure during a summer weekend. And for those traveling to Washington State, this unique tour of a lifetime allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, all in a single day so you can get back to the rest of your travels. Discover the ultimate adventure in the […] - [Tours](https://optimumadventures.com/tours/) ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/optimumadventures.com/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)