Olympic National Park is the largest national park in Washington and is home to many of the state’s best hikes. 

Olympic National Park has four distinct ecosystems and is divided into different areas with separate entrances.  This means that there are many different kinds of hikes to enjoy.

I’m a national park expert and I have hiked all over Olympic National Park. In this guide to the best hikes: Olympic Peninsula, you’ll find descriptions of all of the best hiking in Olympic National Park.

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The Best Hikes in Olympic National Park

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Guided Hikes – Olympic National Park

It’s certainly possible to do all of these hikes by yourself but a guide can give you even more information about the best places to hike in Olympic National Park and describe what you’re seeing along the way.  Plus, if time is limited and you prefer not to drive, a day tour from Seattle or Port Angeles is a convenient way to get to the national park.  

Some tours to Olympic National Park that include hikes (or the option to hike) are:

Hurricane Ridge Tour

This private tour spends about three hours at Hurricane Ridge, which is enough time for one or two of the hikes there. You’ll have a knowledgeable guide and it includes pick up and drop off at your hotel.

BOOK A PRIVATE ALL-DAY TRIP FROM SEATTLE TO HURRICANE RIDGE

Lake Crescent Tour

This all-inclusive day tour stops at the Elwha River Valley and the Salt Creek Recreation Area for tide pooling (tides permitting), but most of the time is spent at Lake Crescent and a hike to Marymere Falls. It includes pickup/ drop off from downtown Seattle hotels, breakfast, gourmet lunch and the entrance fee to Olympic National Park.

BOOK THIS DAY-TRIP TO LAKE CRESCENT HERE

Sol Duc Valley Tour

This is a full day of hiking in Olympic National Park with your own private guide to explain in detail what you’re seeing along the way.  It will take you on hikes at Hurricane Ridge (read Best Hikes in Hurricane Ridge to see options) and Lake Crescent (read Best Hikes in Lake Crescent) AND a hike to Sol Duc Falls.  This is a private tour, so you get the guide all to yourself – and can choose the hikes you like (as long as you can fit them in the schedule, of course).

BOOK THIS PRIVATE ALL-DAY GUIDED HIKING TRIP TO 3 AREAS IN OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK 

Hoh Rainforest Tour

A private tour means you get the guide all to yourself – and have more flexibility in what you do.  An expert naturalist guide can point out all the features of what you’re seeing and give you extra information that will enhance your hikes. You get picked up at Kalaloch Beach 4 and spend some time at Ruby Beach as well as the Hoh Rainforest.  Choose this hike in the Hoh and you won’t be disappointed!

BOOK THIS PRIVATE TOUR TO HOH RAINFOREST AND KALALOCH BEACHES

Pacific Beaches Tour

This private full day tour actually meets at the parking lot for Beach 4.  In addition to time at the beach, possible stops include Rialto Beach, Tree of Life and the Hoh Rainforest.   

BOOK A FULL-DAY PRIVATE TRIP TO OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK

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Best Hikes in Olympic National Park

There are so many top picks for best hikes at Olympic National Park that I’ve divided them into the different regions of the park.  So here you’ll find the best Olympic Mountain hikes, the best waterfall hikes, the best beach hikes, the best rainforest hikes, and more. 

Hurricane Ridge Hikes

Hurricane Ridge lies in the northeastern section of Olympic National Park and is the main accessible mountainous area of the park.  Consequently, the area has some of the best mountain hikes in Olympic National Park. 

From all of these top hikes in Olympic National Park, you will get incredible views over the Olympic mountains.  On clear days, you can see all the way to Canada!

Hurricane Ridge is located 17 miles up a scenic but narrow, steep and winding road from Port Angeles. The drive takes 45 – 60 minutes.  The Hurricane Ridge Road is open 24 hours a day from mid-May to October and (weather permitting) on weekends the rest of the year.

READ MORE: 

• Best Hurricane Ridge Hikes
• Hurricane Ridge Visitors Guide

1. Hurricane Hill Trail

Length: 3.2 miles round trip (out-and-back) | 2 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Trailhead: Hurricane Hill Trailhead at the far end of Hurricane Ridge Road

This trail is one of the best hikes in the Olympic National Park if you’re looking for expansive mountain views.  On a clear day, you can see all the way to Canada.

The trail starts at the parking lot and the first 0.4 miles is fairly flat and is wheelchair accessible.  The path then starts to climb up a series of broad switchbacks, passing through expansive meadows that burst into bloom in summer.  Stop and enjoy incredible mountain views along the way.

There are also several interpretative panels at viewpoints, with information about different aspects of this area of the national park.

The trail is fully paved, except for a very short distance right at the end to the very summit of Hurricane Hill. It’s rated as moderate and is fairly short, but is nonetheless one of the hardest hikes in Olympic National Park mostly due to the 650 feet elevation change.  However, there are benches spaced along the way so you can rest. 

Insider Tips:

• To reach the trailhead, drive 1.5 beyond the old Hurricane Hill Visitor Center.  This is a narrow road that’s not suitable for RVS and trailers.
• If the parking lot near the trailhead is full, there is overflow parking at Picnic Areas A and B.  There is a trail through the woods from Picnic Area B to the trailhead.

Highlights:

• Panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains.  On a clear day, you can see all the way to Canada.
• Wildflowers in summer
• Chances of seeing marmots, deer and black bears

READ MORE: Hurricane Hill Trail Guide

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2. High Ridge Trail to Sunrise Point

Length: 0.9 miles | 30 minutes

Difficulty: Easy (though it is steep in parts)

Trailhead: Opposite the old Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center (near start of parking lot)

This is one of the great hikes in Olympic National Park. From the trailhead, you’ll be on the Big Meadow Loop for a short distance. 

At a fork, go right and for an even shorter distance, you’ll technically be on the Cirque Rim Trail.  At the next fork, to hike in a counterclockwise direction, go right.  This is the High Ridge Trail.

The trail climbs steadily, with wonderful views backwards towards the parking lot or to the right where you can see panoramic mountain views and the Hurricane Ridge Road snaking its way up from Port Angeles far below. 

You’ll come to a four-way intersection.  To the right is the trail to Klahane Ridge.  You could take this for a mile or so and then turn back for a longer hike. 

Straight ahead is a side out-and-back trail along a narrow ridge to Sunrise Point.  This is worth it for great views, but be aware that there are steep drop offs on both sides, so this can be challenging if you have a fear of heights.  

Back at the four-way intersection, if you turn a sharp left (or go right if returning from Sunrise Point), you start returning via a loop.  This section has a short switchback section and goes through some woods.  

After the switchbacks, you’ll come to another intersection.  Go left to complete the loop back to the trailhead or turn right to hike the Cirque Rim Trail (see below; recommended).

Keep an eye out for deer, bears, and marmots, as they are frequently seen in this area.

Insider Tips:

• I recommend hiking to Sunrise Point on the High Ridge Trail in a counter-clockwise for the best views. 
• This hike is best done on a clear day, as the views are the major reason to be there. 
• Be sure to have good hiking shoes or boots (and microspikes if there is snow, which there often is well into June) and have hiking poles.  

Highlights: One of the top hikes Olympic National Park for mountain views

READ MORE: High Ridge to Sunrise Point Trail Guide

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3. Cirque Rim Trail

Length: 1-mile round trip

Difficulty: Easy

Trailhead: At start of parking lot near the old Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center (if you hike counterclockwise) OR at far end of Hurricane Ridge parking lot (if you hike clockwise)

The Cirque Rim is not only one of my Olympic National Park top hikes, it’s also one of the best easy hikes in Olympic National Park.

Most of the trail runs along the rim of a large bowl shape.  It passes meadows that burst into wildflower blooms in summer on one side.  On the other are stunning mountain views.  A highlight is the Cirque Rim Viewpoint, where you can see Port Angeles and the Strait of Juan de Fuca on clear days. 

This is a short, easy, paved trail that is perfect for kids and even possible in a wheelchair with some assistance. 

Insider Tips: 

It’s best to hike the trail clockwise if you’re connecting to the Big Meadow trail that runs parallel below the rim because it makes the connections easier. Hike the trail counterclockwise (if you’re connecting it to the High Ridge and Sunrise Point trails (which I recommend).

Highlights: 

• Meadows of wildflowers in summer
• Panoramic views of the mountains and oceans beyond
• Possibility of seeing marmots, bears, and deer

READ MORE: Cirque Rim Trail Guide

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Crescent Lake Hikes

There are several really great hikes near Lake Crescent.  These include one of my favorite waterfall hikes Olympic National Park has and a couple of super fun lake hikes. Olympic National Park has incredible old growth forests and interesting history, which you can also experience on these hikes.

READ MORE: Best Hikes Near Lake Crescent

4. Marymere Falls Trail

Length: 1.8 miles out-and-back

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 400 feet

Marymere Falls Trailhead: There are two trailheads – at the Storm King Ranger Station and at Lake Crescent Lodge. 

The Marymere Falls hike is one of the most popular short hikes in Olympic National Park, and it’s easy to see why. 

The trail winds its way through magical old growth forest to the tallest waterfall in Olympic National Park.  

Wherever you start the trail, you will pass under Highway 101 and end up on the same trail. You’ll pass enormous ferns, towering spruce, fir and cedar trees, and Dr-Seuss-like Bigleaf Maple trees covered in moss. 

After crossing two wooden bridges, the trail climbs in a loop to the 90-foot waterfall.  Two viewpoints provide slightly different views of the narrow horsetail waterfall, and the small pool below. 

Insider Tips:

• If you start at the Storm King Ranger Station, hike to Marymere Falls first, then do the Moments in Time trail on your return. You’ll end up Lake Crescent Lodge, before looping back to the ranger station. 
• If you start at Lake Crescent Lodge, the first sign that you come to that says “Storm King Ranger Station” is the connecting trail for the Moments in Time trail, even though it is not mentioned on the sign.  If you want to go the ranger station, there is a more direct path further along. 

Highlights: 

• Waterfall
• Old growth forest

READ MORE: Marymere Falls Trail Guide

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5. Moments in Time Trail

Length: 0.8 miles loop (15-30 minutes)

Difficulty: Very easy

Elevation Gain: 9 feet

Trailhead: Lake Crescent Lodge.  There are also connector trails from the Marymere Falls Trail and the Storm King Ranger Station

This is the best trail in Olympic National Park if you want to learn more about the history and ecology of the forest. 

The flat, easy loop through a small area of old growth forest on Barnes Point near Lake Crescent Lodge is one of several very easy trails Olympic National Park has.  But it has the added bonus of multiple interpretative signs spaced throughout.  

Each sign points out something you can see and explains its significance. These explanations give you a chance to learn more about the forest and connect more deeply to it.  

You’ll see large standing dead trees, tree stumps and downed logs of ancient trees that provide essential habitats for dozens of animals.  You’ll start to appreciate how trees or various heights and ages, developed over a period of 250 years, provide a multi-layered canopy to the forest.

You’ll also learn about nurse logs and see this method of growth and regrowth in action.  You’ll notice remnants of logging in this area and learn which trees grow quickly to then provide the right environment for taller but slower-growing trees to take hold.

This is not only one of the best short hikes << Olympic National Park >>, it’s also a top pick for the best hike Olympic National Park has for kids.

Insider Tips:  

There are five access points to the loop

Highlights

• Old growth forest
• Interpretative panels
• Lake views

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6. Spruce Railroad Trail

Length: 11.2 miles round trip out-and-back (2.4 miles roundtrip to Devils’ Punchbowl)

Difficulty: Moderate (Easy to Devil’s Punchbowl)

Elevation Gain: 250 feet

Trailhead: There are trailheads at both ends of the trail.  

Sometimes called the Crescent Lake trail, this is one of the top trails in Olympic National Park whether you like to hike or bike. You can go as far as the Devil’s Punchbowl for one of the best easy day hikes Olympic National Park has or keep going for a longer hike. 

The trail runs along the bed of an old railroad. The railroad was originally built to carry spruce lumber out of the forest to build airplanes in WWI.  It wasn’t actually finished until after the war, but was then used for commercial logging until the 1950s.  

One of the highlights are two railroad tunnels. The McFee Tunnel was blasted during World War I. This is a popular place to turn around, but you can continue along all the way to the west trailhead.  The second, shorter railroad tunnel, the Daley-Rankin Tunnel is 2.8 miles from the east trailhead.

The most popular feature of this trail, however, is the Devil’s Punchbowl.  This is a small bay that is semi-closed off from the lake by a long footbridge.  The sparkling turquoise waters are perfect for a (chilly) dip on a warm day.  

Insider Tips:  

• The east trailhead is better if you plan to hike just part of the trail, especially if you want to turn around at Devil’s Punchbowl.  The west trailhead is more convenient if you’re staying at Fairholme Campground and there are often fewer cars parked there. This is only really suitable if you plan to hike or bike the whole trail, though.
• If you have two vehicles in your group, you could park at both ends and do a key swap so you can all hike the full trail, but in one direction only.  
• A great way to do the whole trail is to rent a bicycle (or take your own) and cycle the trail.
• The tunnel is very dark. If you plan to walk through it, I recommend taking a flashlight (your camera flashlight doesn’t really cut it).  You can pick one up on Amazon here if you need one.
• Pets on leashes are permitted on the Spruce Railroad trail.  

Highlights

• Swimming at Devil’s Punchbowl 
• Lake views
• Old rail tunnel

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Sol Duc Valley Hikes

Some of the really good hikes in Olympic National Park are in the Sol Duc Valley. Without a doubt one of (if not the) best waterfall hikes in Olympic National Park is here, as well as some short, easy hikes that round out your trip to this part of the national park.  There are longer Sol Duc hikes available too, but these are my personal favorites. 

READ MORE: Best Sol Duc Hikes

7. Sol Duc Falls

Length: 1.6 miles return out-and-back

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 200 feet

Trailhead: Sol Duc Trailhead, at end of Sol Duc Road. 

The hike to Sol Duc Falls is one of the Olympic National Park must do hikes.  The fairly flat terrain, relatively short distance and stunning waterfall make this one of the best family hikes in Olympic National Park. 

The trail heads off through old growth forest. After about half an hour, you’ll see the historic Canyon Creek Shelter through the trees off to your left.  A few more yards and you’ll arrive at a wide bridge over the Sol Duc River.  The falls are nearby and there are several viewing areas. 

Sol Duc Falls are 48 feet high and split into three or four different streams, depending on their volume, as they drop into a narrow ravine.

The river makes a quick 90-degree turn right at the falls, and then again just after, so the falls are at an odd angle across the main flow of the river.  Their unusual shape and situation make them especially beautiful.

When you’ve had your fill of the falls, you can return the way you came, or continue in a loop along Lover’s Lane or on to Deer Lake or the Sol Duc River Trail.

Insider Tips:

• Get there early to avoid the crowds and get a parking spot, especially in summer, when the park gets extremely busy. 
• There is a reasonably-sized parking lot at the trailhead.  However, if it’s full and you’re up for a longer hike, you can combine this with the Lover’s Lane Trail by starting at the Sol Duc Hot Springs back down the road or start at the Sol Duc Campground and follow a trail from there that connects just after the start of the main Sol Duc Trail. This creates a 6.0-mile loop trail that goes through the campground and down near the river as well.
• If you’re a serious photographer, you’ll want special filters, lenses and a tripod to get a long exposure, which creates that soft flowing look.   If you have an iphone, you can create the same look more easily.  Take the photo with “live” on, then when you look at the photo, click on the small down arrow next to “live” in the top left corner and choose “long exposure” from the drop-down menu. That’s how the photo above was taken.

Highlights: 

• Old growth forest
• Waterfall

READ MORE: Sol Duc Falls Trail Guide

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8. Ancient Groves

Length: 0.6-mile loop

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 52 feet

Trailhead: On the side of the Sol Duc Hot Springs Road, about 9 miles from the entrance station. There is a sign and small parking lot/ pullout on the right side of the road.

This self-guided nature trail through a magical grove of ancient giants is one of the top day hikes in Olympic National Park.  It’s a great option if you’re looking for easy hikes. Olympic Peninsula is home to several pockets of old growth forest with trees that are more than 750 years old!

The trail loops through a grove of trees towering high above, with a lush undergrowth of enormous ferns and thick moss.  Moss is also draped over the trunks and limbs of many of the trees.  There are more shades of green here than you could ever imagine!

At the far end of the loop, the trail runs along the edge of a small canyon where you can catch glimpses of the Sol Duc River below and the Olympic Mountains beyond.  It then loops back through the trees, where you pass several nurse logs, with small trees growing along the top of a fallen log.

Insider Tips:

• If you are driving into Sol Duc Valley from Highway 101, there is a sign.  The parking is on your right.  However, if you are driving from Sol Duc valley towards Highway 101, there is no sign and it is easy to miss.  So, I recommend doing this hike on your way in. 
• Be aware that there are two trailheads and two access paths to the main loop.  When you come to the second sign that says “Loop”, this is NOT the path you entered in.  It can be confusing if you don’t know this.  
• If the first parking lot you come to is full, drive a little further along the road and you’ll come to another pullout with some additional parking.  There is a trail here that also connects to the loop, so you don’t need to walk back to the other parking lot to start the hike.

Highlights: 

• Old growth forest
• View of Sol Duc River in small canyon

READ MORE: Ancient Groves Trail Guide

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9. Salmon Cascades

Length: 190 feet each way, out and back

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 0 feet

Trailhead: 5 miles up Sol Duc Hot Springs Road from Highway 101, on the right side.

This is one of the super short hikes in Olympic National Park, but it packs a punch. The trail is wide and flat and soon ends at a viewing platform.  It’s not the best option if you are looking to get out and hike, but is one of the best trails at Olympic National Park to see nature at its most interesting.  

The 11-foot waterfall, which cascades over several short but dramatic layers, is beautiful and definitely worth seeing.  However, the main attraction are the salmon and trout that jump up this waterfall on their way up river to return to the part of the river where they were born.  

As soon as they are old enough, young salmon born in the upper reaches of the Sol Duc River head downstream and spend most of their lives in the Pacific Ocean wandering hundreds of miles up and down the coast.  But somehow, they manage to navigate their way up river, leaping up this waterfall in the process, to return to exactly the same spot they were born.  

They then spawn, with the females laying eggs in a nest they dig in the gravelly river bed, and the males fertilizing the eggs.  As soon as they are done, they die, their carcasses creating essential nutrients that feed the river system and surrounding forest.

Insider Tips: 

• The falls are beautiful all the time, but to have the best chances of seeing the fish jumping, spring and fall are best. Chinook and coho salmon leap up the cascades in the fall (September – early November) and cutthroat trout and steelhead leap up the cascades in spring (March-May).  
• Take video.  I usually just take photos, but it is very difficult to snap a photo exactly when a fish is mid-air.  It’s much easier to take videos so you can catch them in action.  

Highlights: 

• Salmon jumping
• Beautiful waterfall

READ MORE: Salmon Cascades Guide

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Hoh Rainforest Hikes

The Hoh Rainforest is not the only rainforest in the park, but it does have some of the best rainforest hikes in Olympic National Park. From gigantic trees to magical moss-draped branches, here are the best hikes in Hoh Rainforest.

READ MORE: Best Hoh Rainforest Hikes 

10. Hall of Mosses Trail

Length: 0.8 miles | 30 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Trailhead: Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center

This is one of the best hikes in the Hoh Rainforest if you want to get a taste of the temperate rain forest in a bite-sized piece.  It’s also one of the easy Olympic National Park hikes, so most people with reasonable mobility can manage it.

The trail takes a fairly short loop through a grove of Bigleaf Maple trees.  These trees arch and angle in odd directions as they seek the sun in any way they can.  The result is like something in a Dr. Seuss book. 

Making them even more magical are the hundreds of varieties of moss and lichen that coat the trunks and drape from branches.  

Be sure to take the short side trail about half way around.  It ends at the most spectacular section of the grove.  

Insider Tips:

• The light is best for photography early in the morning.  When the early morning sun hits the moss, turning it into a golden glow, it is truly magical.
• Keep an eye out at the creek at the start/ end of the hike.  You may see river otters and/ or salmon here in season.

Highlights: Temperate rain forest with moss

READ MORE: Hall of Mosses Trail Guide

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11. Hoh River Trail

Length: The entire trail is over 17 miles long, but there are various popular points to turn back along the way for shorter day hikes.

• First River Access: 0.9 miles each way | 1.8 miles total
• Mineral Creek Falls: 2.7 miles each way | 5.4 miles total
• Cedar Grove: 4.0 miles each way | 8.0 miles total
• Five Mile Island: 5 miles each way | 10.0 miles return
• Glacier Meadows: 17.3 miles each way | 34.6 miles return

Difficulty: Moderate to Five Mile Island, due to its length, not elevation gain, as it mostly flat. Easy if you turn back sooner.

Trailhead: Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center

This is easily one of the most scenic hikes in Olympic National Park.  

The Hoh River runs along the entire length of the Hoh Valley and you can hike a mile or 34 miles! 

There are several popular places along the way.  As a day trip, most people turn back at Mineral Creek Falls, Five Mile Island or sooner.

If you want to experience the magic of the Hoh Rainforest but with fewer crowds, then this is one of the best trails. Hoh Rainforest tend to be very popular, but the further you go, the fewer people will be around you.

The trail sets off from the Visitor Center and passes through several groves of gigantic trees, enormous ferns and moss.  You can take a side trail to see the Hoh River or continue on to the small but lovely Mineral Creek Falls.  The waterfalls are nestled up the hill in the middle of lush forest.  

READ MORE: Best Waterfalls in Olympic National Park | Forest

Even further along is Five Mile Island.  There are restrooms and a grassy area that is an ideal spot for lunch or a snack.

If you’re up for something even more adventurous, you can continue about 18 miles to the end of the trail at Glacier Meadows and then a final push to an overlook with stunning views of Blue Glacier on the side of Mount Olympus.  

This is a multi-day trip that requires backpacking and camping along the way.  If this sounds interesting but intimidating, I recommend a five-day guided hiking/ camping trip.  Having a guide takes a lot of the stress away – though you’ll still need a reasonable level of fitness. 

BOOK 5-DAY HOH RIVER HIKING TRIP TO BLUE GLACIER

Insider Tips:

You’ll sometimes come to splits in the trail.  Heading out from the Visitor Center, take the left trails.  The ones to the right sometimes rejoin the trail, but sometimes they dead end at the river.

Highlights: 

• Temperate rain forest with moss
• Waterfall
• River views

READ MORE: Hoh River Trail Guide

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12. Spruce Nature Trail

Length: 1.2 miles | 30 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Trailhead: Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center

Another of the easy trails in Olympic National Park, this trail has less moss than the Hall of Mosses, but has a greater variety of trees spread throughout new and old growth forest.  It’s even flatter than the Hall of Mosses.  

At the far end of the loop is the trail highlight – a lovely view of the Hoh River. There are several interpretative signs along the way explaining some of the features of the forest like nurse logs.  

Roosevelt elks are often seen on this trail.

Insider Tips:

The Spruce Nature Trail and the nearby Hall of Mosses Trail are by far the two most popular of the best hikes Hoh Rainforest has.   If you get there in the morning, most people head to the Hall of Mosses first, so if you head to the Spruce Nature Trail, you have a better chance of having the rain forest more to yourself.  Later in the day, it will make little difference, though.

Highlights: 

• Old growth temperate rain forest
• View of Hoh River

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Olympic National Park Beach Hikes

The dramatic windswept beaches of the Pacific Northwest are windy, often foggy – and incredibly beautiful.  Hikes here are a mix of hikes through the forest to get to beaches and hikes along the beaches themselves. 

READ MORE:

Best Olympic National Park Beaches
Best Tide Pools in Olympic National Park

13. Third Beach Trail, Olympic National Park

Length: 1.4 miles | 45-60 minutes each way

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate

Third Beach Trailhead: Third Beach parking lot on La Push Road.  It’s a 15-minute drive from Forks.  Coming from Forks, it’s before Second Beach.

The Third Beach hike is the longest of the hikes to the southern beaches, but if you include the beach as well as the forest, is easily one of the most scenic hikes Olympic National Park has.

Most of the trail is a gradual descent through coastal forest with towering hemlock trees, enormous ferns plus moss, lichens and various fungi.  After about a mile, the trail narrows and starts to descend. 

Most of the elevation change is in the last 0.4 miles. This section can be muddy and slippery after rain. Just before you get to the beach, there’s a breathtaking view of the beach through the trees with driftwood in the foreground.

The final descent to the beach gets a little rougher, but soon spits you out at a small creek and a large pile of driftwood.  You need to climb over this mass of tree-trunk-sized driftwood to get to the beautiful sandy beach.

Huge piles of driftwood, off-shore sea stacks and a coastal waterfall dropping right into the ocean make this is one of the most dramatic beaches on the Olympic coast. This view alone is why this hike gets my vote as one of the best hikes in the Olympic Peninsula.

Insider Tips:

• Get there early. The parking lot at Third Beach is just 20 spaces
• When you reach the beach, turn around and look for the small sign posted high up a tree near the entrance.  This is a marker indicating where the trail is back to the parking lot so you can find your way back easily from the beach.
• Time your visit for low tide.  If you want to explore the rock pools, you’ll need to visit at low tide.  Plan to arrive at the beach at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide so you have sufficient time to spend there before your return hike.

Highlights: 

• Coastal forest
• Beach with sea stacks and driftwood
• Coastal waterfall

READ MORE: Third Beach Guide

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14. Second Beach Trail, Olympic National Park

Length: 0.7 miles | 20-30 minutes each way

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate

Trailhead: Second Beach Trailhead

This is arguably the best hike in Olympic National Park if you’re looking for a fairly easy forest walk and enjoy stunning beach views and tide pooling.

The Second Beach hike has some up and down sections and a steep descent to the beach near the end, but is manageable by most people with reasonable mobility. 

The trail starts very wide and mostly flat and is very easy to follow.  It passes a chain wire fence and private access gate to the Lonesome Creek Hatchery, which is not very pretty, but it soon heads deeper into the forest. The trail crosses a small creek and descends slowly through towering trees and past enormous ferns, winding gently around small marshes. 

Near the end, a series of wide steps switchback down a hill.  This stepped section can be muddy and slippery in the wet season, so take care.  A couple of minutes before you arrive at the beach, you can see the ocean through the trees.  It’s just another couple of minutes from there down to the sand.

When you arrive at the beach, there may be a pile of driftwood at the entrance that you need to climb over.  I’ve been there when you could walk straight on to the sand, so be prepared for any conditions.

A wide sandy cove framed by rocky headlands and a natural arch, dramatic sea stacks and tiny islands rising out of the crashing surg, and piles of huge driftwood make for a breathtaking scene.

Insider Tips:

• Note the entrance/ exit to the beach so you recognize it when you return. Look for the circular sign with alternating black and red quarters posted high up a tree near the entrance.  This is a marker indicating where the trail is back to the parking lot so you can find your way back easily from the beach.
• Time your visit for low tide so you can explore the rock pools.  Plan to arrive at the beach at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide so you have sufficient time to spend there before your return hike.
• Be there for sunrise and/ or sunset if possible.
  In the early morning, you’ll have the beach almost to yourself, as most beach campers are still asleep and few day trippers get there that early.  The light is beautiful and the early morning fog makes for magical photos of the ocean and sea stacks.
  The sunsets are often spectacular here, too. If you do either sunrise or sunset, unless you’re beach camping, you’ll need to hike to/ from the beach in the dark.  You’ll need a good headlamp.  You can get a headlamp here if you need one (or two).

Highlights: 

• Coastal forest
• Beautiful beach with driftwood and sea stacks offshore

READ MORE: Second Beach, La Push Guide

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15. Hole in the Wall – Rialto Beach Hike

Length: 3.3 miles round trip

Difficulty: Easy-moderate.  It’s flat, but walking in soft sand can be tiring.

Trailhead: Rialto Beach parking lot

From the parking lot, there’s a flat, short path to the beach. This is one of the few Olympic beaches that doesn’t have stairs and/ or a sloped path.  The Rialto Beach trail to Hole in The Wall is 1.65-miles each way, but if you have limited mobility and just want to be on the beach and not walk very far, then Rialto Beach is a great option.

As you look down the beach to your right, you’ll see a small rocky headland far in the distance.  This is your destination, Hole in the Wall.

The entire hike is along the beach, which is why this is one of the most beautiful hikes in Olympic National Park.

As you start to walk, keep an eye for birds and marine wildlife.  Enormous logs formed from the trunks of fully grown trees, stripped bare by the elements, frequently line the edge of the beach.  

Another thing you’ll notice are the off shore sea stacks. You’ll see many small stacks off shore pretty much the whole way, but the larger and closer stacks await as you get closer to Hole in the Wall.

After 1.65 miles, you’ll come to Hole in the Wall. This is a natural arch carved by the sea over hundreds of years.

The area is a great place for exploring the tidal pools at low tide. The beauty of the area and the great tide pooling are the reasons why this is one of the most popular hikes Olympic National Park has.

Insider Tips:

• Time the hike for low tide.  It’s often impossible to walk along the beach at high tide.  And, if you want to explore the rock pools and walk through the hole in the wall, you’ll need to visit at low tide.  
• Plan time for tide pooling. Aim to arrive at the Hole in the Wall at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide so you have sufficient time to spend there before your return hike.

Highlights: 

• Beach
• Driftwood
• Sea stacks
• Hole-in-the-Wall natural arch
• Tide pools

READ MORE: Rialto Beach – Hole in the Wall Guide

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16. Kalaloch Beach 4

Length: 0.2 miles each way to the beach + 0.2 miles along the beach to the tide pools

Difficulty: Easy – moderate.  The trail itself is short, but has some elevation change.  If you have mobility difficulties, the final section down a rope over some rocks may be impossible. See below for more details.

Trailhead: Beach 4 parking lot

This is one of the most popular hikes Olympic National Park has not so much for the hike itself (which is pleasant but short), but more for the destination.

The trailhead leaves directly from the parking lot and is very easy to see. Soon after, you’ll come to a fork in the path. The path to the right ends at a viewpoint overlooking the beach.

The trail to the left takes you down a hill to the beach.  There are several interpretive signs along the main trail explaining more about the forest and the beach.

The trail starts flat and heads through the forest but soon heads down wide stairs to the beach.

Arriving at the beach, you’ll cross a lovely wooden bridge from the hillside to some rocks that stand at the entrance to the beach.  

To get down to the beach itself, there is a rope to help you climb down the side of some rocks.  They aren’t that high, but they are steep.  So, although this is of my favorite best short hikes in Olympic National Park, this section is challenging or even impossible for people with mobility issues.  

From there, it’s another 0.2 miles along the black and pebbly beach to rocks at the northern end.  The northern side of these rocks has some of the best tide pooling in the entire national park. 

Insider Tips:

• When exploring the tidepools, you’ll need to clamber over wet rocks that can be steep and slippery. You’ll want to wear good hiking boots or shoes. If you need to get some, take a look at my Guide to Buying the Best Hiking Shoes/ Boots to help you know what to look for and get some recommendations.  My top pick is this pair of Salomon Gore-Tex boots.
  An alternative to hiking shoes or boots are hiking sandals.  These have the advantage of being fine in water as well as having good grip.  If you’re interested in buying some, check out my Complete Guide To The Best Hiking Sandals or get my favorite pair: KEEN Unisex-Adult Targhee 3 Open Toe Hiking Sport Sandal
• Time the hike for low tide.  Plan to arrive at the beach at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide so you have sufficient time to spend there before your return hike.
• If you’re looking for other hikes near Kalaloch, head to Kalaloch Beach to see the Tree of Life

Highlights: Tide pools

READ MORE: Kalaloch Beach 4 Guide

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Lake Quinault Hikes

The Quinault section combines some of the best hikes in Southern Olympic National Park with – on the other side of Quinault Lake – the best hikes in Olympic National Forest.

READ MORE: Best Lake Quinault Hikes

17. Maple Glade Rainforest Trail

Length: 0.5 miles loop

Difficulty: Easy

Trailhead: Maple Glade Rain Forest Trailhead

This is one of my favorite Olympic National Park easy hikes.

It’s a short loop through a magnificent glade of Bigleaf Maple Trees.  These trees twist and turn into fantastical shapes.  They are coated and draped in golden moss that glows when the sunlight shines on it through the trees.  

Under foot are enormous ferns and, on the way, you’ll pass ponds that later in the dry season (late summer/ fall) are lacking in water but filled with lush green grasses.

Look down to find banana slugs and through the trees, where you may see Roosevelt Elk.

You can take the loop in either direction.  At the far end of the loop, you can either continue around the loop or take the trail that continues on the Kestner Homestead. 

Insider Tips:

• There are often ranger-led hikes into Maple Glade. Check the NPS website for the dates of your visit.
• The light is best early morning, when the sunlight makes the moss glow.

Highlights: Temperate Rain Forest with maple trees and moss

READ MORE: Maple Glade Rainforest Trail Guide

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18. Kestner Homestead Trail

Length: 1.3-mile loop

Difficulty: Easy

Trailhead: Maple Glade Rain Forest Trailhead

One of the best easy hikes Olympic National Park has, the Kestner Homestead features a stunning rain forest and a step back in time. 

The trail starts at the Maple Glade Loop and continues through the temperate rain forest before emerging into a clearing where the historic farm is located. 

There is a wooden farmhouse and several sheds with wood shingled roofs.  There are also pieces of abandoned, rusty farm equipment and cars scattered around the property, plus a bathtub sitting in a nearby field.  There are some small pastures and a tiny orchard.  

The Kestner Homestead Site, built in 1897 and rebuilt in 1900-1905, is the oldest surviving settler-built homestead in the Quinault River Valley.  It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

The loop trail continues down the main farm road and across a modern bridge before veering off to the right alongside Kestner Creek through mostly unexciting second growth forest.  It soon emerges back at the ranger station.

Insider Tips:

The loop can be hiked in either direction. I prefer clockwise because then you visit Maple Glade first and get a real sense of the forest as it was before it was farmed, which helps you appreciate even more the task early pioneers faced when turning the forest into farmland.

Highlights:

• Temperate rain forest
• Historic homestead/ farm

READ MORE: Kestner Homestead Trail Guide

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19. Largest Spruce Tree Trail

Length: 0.4 miles out-and-back

Difficulty: Very Easy

Trailhead: Just past the Rain Forest Resort Villages’ general store on South Shore Road. Across the street from the parking lot is a small sign indicating the start of the trail to the “World’s Record Sitka Spruce”.

This is one of the best Olympic National Forest hikes since it technically lies just outside the national park.   

A flat, fairly wide and very easy to follow trail goes through a basic forest before emerging into a clearing.  The biggest Sitka spruce tree in the world is across the clearing. There is a small sign nearby giving its impressive statistics. 

The tree about 1,000 years old; 191 feet tall; and has a circumference of 58 feet and 11 inches!  That’s a big tree!  In fact, it is one of the five champion trees in Quinault Valley (the “Valley of the Giants”), and by far the most accessible.

Pose for some photos, admire the trees enormity, ponder what life events this tree has witnessed, then return back to your vehicle.   

Insider Tips:

Stop at the nearby Salmon House restaurant for lunch or dinner – they have some of the best salmon you’ll ever eat and lovely views of Lake Quinault from their back porch.

Highlights: Largest spruce tree in the world

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20. Cascade Falls Quinault Trail

Length: 1.6-mile loop

Difficulty: Easy

Trailhead: Across the road from Lake Quinault Lodge

There are several interconnected Olympic National Forest hiking trails across the road from the lake’s southern shore. They are all pretty (or very) easy and you can do one or connect several into hikes of varying lengths.

My favorite of these Olympic National Forest hikes, though, is the loop to Cascade Falls.  The trail goes through second growth forest with large ferns and tall trees covered in moss.  There are several small bridges over creeks.  

At the far end of the loop is the slightly underwhelming Cascade Falls.  Although the falls aren’t that spectacular, it is the hike itself that is the highlight.  It’s a lovely forest walk that is a great introduction to the temperate rainforest.

Insider Tips:

The trail ends back at the road.  If you cross the road and follow the path, it winds thorough some buildings before emerging at the lake.  It then follows the shore back to the large lawn in front of Lake Quinault Lodge.

Highlights:

• Lovely forest walk
• Small waterfall
• Lake shore stroll at end

READ MORE: Lake Quinault Loop Drive

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Map of the Best Hiking Trails in Olympic National Park

This map shows you where these hikes are, but it’s not a detail trail map.  For that, it’s worth getting a National Geographic topographic hiking trails map of Olympic National Park before you go.

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 What to Wear Hiking in Olympic National Park & What to Pack for Hiking at Olympic National Park

 There is a large variety of trails in Olympic National Park. Best hike gear recommendations include:

1. Hiking poles

Many of the best day hikes in the Olympics have some elevation change. Hiking poles can help stabilize you and make going up and downhill easier.  I used to think they weren’t necessary until I actually tried them and now I seldom hike without them. 

I have these Foxelli trekking poles – they are really light weight, adjustable, have several tips and grippy handles.  Get them here. 

2. Wind breaker/ Rain jacket

A lot of these hikes are in an area called Hurricane Ridge because of the strong winds, rain forests or wind-swept beaches.   I recommend taking a rain jacket/ wind breaker and wearing layers that you can take off or put on depending on the weather, which can change throughout the day.

If you need one, I like this Columbia rain jacket for men and this Little Donkey Andy rain jacket for women.

3. Water

Always take more water than you think you’ll need.  I love this hydroflask.  It’s easy to carry, keeps temperatures well, and comes in multiple colors. 

4. Binoculars

These aren’t essential, but there are often birds soaring overhead or wildlife in the distance or marine life at the beaches.  So, I like to take binoculars with me when I hike so I can see them up close. 

If you’re looking for some, read my guide to The Best Binoculars for the Money or get my top pick here.

5. Sun hat, sunglasses and sun screen

Many of these hikes involve some (or a lot) of exposure to the sun, so be sure to wear sunscreen, a good sun hat and sunglasses. 

6. Bear Spray

It’s possible that you may encounter black bears on the trails in the woods, especially early summer and fall.  Be bear aware and carry bear spray or a bear bell just in case. 

7. Winter hiking gear

If you’re hiking in winter (or fall or spring), you will need good microspikes or snow shoes.  Read my guides to The Best Microspikes for Hiking and The Best Snowshoes for Beginners if you need to buy some.

8. Day Hike Essentials

Check my list of essential things to take and wear on a day hike to make sure you have everything you need.

9. Sturdy hiking shoes or boots or sandals

You’ll want to wear good hiking boots, shoes or sandals for the best hiking.  Olympic National Park has forest trails where there are roots and rocks, and beach hikes that involve walking on slippery wet rocks.

If you need to get some boots, take a look at my Guide to Buying the Best Hiking Shoes/ Boots to help you know what to look for and get some recommendations.  My top pick is this pair of Salomon Gore-Tex boots. 

An alternative to hiking shoes or boots are hiking sandals.  These have the advantage of being fine in water as well as having good grip.  If you’re interested in buying some, check out my Complete Guide To The Best Hiking Sandals or get my favorite pair: KEEN Unisex-Adult Targhee 3 Open Toe Hiking Sport Sandal

10. Camera 

I love the GoPro HERO 12.  It’s designed for travel.  It’s water resistant and durable, which is especially important when you might slip and the camera could end up wet.  Check current prices on the GoPro HERO 12 here

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Tips for Hiking at Olympic National Park

1. Time it right

The best time to hike Olympic National Park is in the summer and very early fall.  Although snow at the lower elevations is not super common in winter, a large part of the national park is temperate rainforest and most of the rain falls in the winter months.  

2. Wear the right gear in winter

At higher elevations like Hurricane Ridge, the best hiking trails in Olympic National Park are usually covered in snow from October to June. Microspikes or snowshoes are essential at this time of year.

3. Be an early bird

July and August are the most crowded months, so try to get as early as possible to the hiking trails. Olympic National Park has several super popular areas like Sol Duc Falls and the Hoh Rainforest and by mid-morning (and sometimes even earlier), you should expect to wait in lines at the park entrances as they manage parking availability. 

4. Hike the beach at low tide

Beach hikes should be done at low tides.  Always check tidal charts and aim to hike 1.5 hours each side of the low tides.  Negative tides are best, especially if you want to explore the tidepools.

5. Check the views are clear

Mountain hikes are best done on a clear day so you can enjoy the views. The weather at the top of Hurricane Ridge is often very different than the weather down in Port Angeles.  There is a webcam you can check out before heading up.

6. Be sun sensible

There is little shade on some of the trails, so be sure to have a hat and sunglasses, and wear sunscreen.

7. Get maps

Before setting out, be sure to get maps for all the best hiking trails.  Olympic Peninsula trail maps can be downloaded or you can buy a detailed National Geographic topographic trail map here.  

8. Take a handheld GPS

Most of these trails are well marked, but for peace of mind, especially for the longer trails, you can invest in a good quality handheld GPS for hiking (see reviews and recommendations here).  Or get my top pick Garmin GPS right here.

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Travel Insurance for Olympic National Park

You should definitely have travel insurance when you travel to Olympic National Park.  Good travel insurance will cover you for trip cancellation, theft or damage if your property when traveling, medical help if you have an accident while hiking the best trails in Olympic National Park or medical repatriation if you need to get medi-vaced out. 

A great insurance option is Travelex.  It has coverage for all you’ll need. You can compare Travel Insurance plans here or get a quote right now:

Happy hiking! 

Do you have any other top picks for the best trails: Olympic National Park? I’d love to hear about it.  Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).

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The Best Hikes in Olympic National Park

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About the Author

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One of the highlights of a visit to Olympic National Park is exploring the tide pools on the beaches.  The best tide pools in Washington state are to be found right there.  

But there are quite a few beaches on the Olympic Peninsula. So, you are probably wondering “Where are the best tide pools in Olympic National Park?”  That’s what this guide is here to answer. 

I’m a national park expert and based on my experience, I will share with you the best tide pools, tips for getting the most out of your tide pooling experience, FAQs, and more.

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Best Tide Pools Olympic National Park: Complete Guide

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The Best Tide Pools Olympic National Park

1. Kalaloch Beach 4 Tide Pools

Beach 4 has, in my opinion, the best tide pooling of all the Olympic National Park beaches.  The beach is not the most dramatic, the tide pools are teeming with colorful marine life and you can easily spend several hours exploring the tide pools there.

Distance to beach

0.2 miles each way

Beach Access

Easy – moderate.  The trail itself is short, but has some elevation change.  

However, if you have mobility issues, getting to the beach is a challenge.  The trail pops you out at a short wooden bridge that spans from the hillside to some rocks on the edge of the beach.  Then you need to get down the rocks to the beach.  There is a rope that you hold on to as you back down the steep rocks.  It’s only a short distance, but nonetheless can be daunting if you have any mobility issues.  

Where to Find the Best Tide Pools on Beach 4

When you enter the beach, head north (right) and look for a large rock at the water’s edge.  The best tide pools are at the north side of this large rock.

Fee

There is no special trail or beach fee and you don’t pass through any Olympic National Park entrance station to enter Beach 4 so you can visit the beach for free.  

However, if you are going to enter other sections of Olympic National Park like Sol Duc, Hoh Rain Forest and Hurricane Hill, you will need to pay the Olympic National Park entrance fee. Paying the fee helps support our parks.  

Buy it online or, if you are planning to visit more than just Olympic National Park this year (Mount Rainier National Park and North Cascades National Park are both close), it can be great value to purchase an America The Beautiful pass.    

When is Beach 4 Open?

Beach 4 is open year-round.

Kalaloch Tide Table 

I recommend checking the official NOAA Kalaloch tide chart here when you are planning your trip so you can visit at the right time.  This tide chart is considered the most reliable and is the one recommended by the NPS.

Pros of Beach 4 Tide Pools

• The best tide pools in Olympic National Park.  So many creatures to see.
• A short walk from the beach access
• The hike to the beach is not too long

Cons of Beach 4 Tide Pools

• You need to use a rope to assist you descending some rocks to get on to the beach.  Not possible or very difficult if you have mobility issues.

READ MORE: Kalaloch Beach 4 Guide

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2. Rialto Beach Tide Pools

Rialto Beach is the most accessible beach on the Olympic Peninsula, although you need to walk along the beach to get to the tide pools.

There are several sea stacks on the shore, but main attraction on Rialto Beach is Hole in the Wall – a dramatic natural arch carved by the wind and sea through a rocky outcrop.  The tidepools are spread around the base of the arch, so it’s easy to combine visiting the arch with exploring the tide pools.

Distance to beach

The beach is a about 100 feet from the parking area, but it’s 3.3 miles round trip to the tide pools.

Beach Access

Easy – moderate.  The beach is close, but the tide pools are near the Hole in the Wall natural arch.  This is about 1.7 miles down the beach to the right. It’s flat, but walking in soft sand can be tiring.

Where to Find the Best Tide Pools on Rialto Beach

When you enter the beach, head north (right) and walk for about 1.7 miles. The best tide pools are all around the Hole in the Wall natural arch.

Fee

There is no special trail fee and you don’t pass through any entrance station to enter Rialto Beach, so you can visit the beach for free.  

However, if you are going to enter other sections of Olympic National Park like Sol Duc, Hoh Rain Forest and Hurricane Hill, you will need to pay the Olympic National Park entrance fee.  Buy it online or, if you are planning to visit more than just Olympic National Park this year (Mount Rainier National Park and North Cascades National Park are both close), it can be great value to purchase an America The Beautiful pass.    

When is Rialto Beach open?

Rialto Beach is open year-round.

Rialto Beach Tides Chart

To reach the tide pools, you’ll need to visit at low tide.  To ensure that you have enough time to explore the tide pools, plan to arrive at Hole in the Wall at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide. 

I recommend checking the official tide chart here when you are planning your trip so you can visit at the right time.

Pros of Rialto Beach Tide Pools

• The tide pools are around the base of the Hole in the Wall, a dramatic and beautiful natural arch.
• The beach is the most accessible with just a short, flat walk from the parking lot.

Cons of Rialto Beach Tide Pools

• It’s a 1.7-mile walk (about one hour) each way from the beach entrance to the tide pools.
• There is less variety and quantity of marine life than at Beach 4.

READ MORE: Rialto Beach Guide

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3. Ruby Beach Tide Pools

Ruby Beach is named after the ruby-like crystals in the beach sand.  These reddish minerals are ‘almandite’, a type of garnet. 

The beach has more to offer than red crystals, however.  It’s incredibly beautiful, with the sea stacks and enormous driftwood that characterize Olympic Peninsula beaches. 

Tide pools form around the edges of the sea stacks between the rocks and the sand, as well as among rocks along the beach.  This makes it great for tide pooling with young kids especially, as they don’t need to walk out on slippery rocks to explore the pools.

Distance to beach

0.25 miles each way

Beach Access

Easy-Moderate.  The trail is short with minimal elevation change.

However, when you arrive at the beach, there is also a pile of driftwood that you need to navigate.  Always walk very carefully on driftwood, as it can shift as you are walking on it.

Where to Find the Best Tide Pools on Ruby Beach

The tide pools are around the bases of the sea stacks.  Unlike the other beaches on this list, many of the tide pools are formed by the rock wall of the sea stacks on one side and then shallow troughs around the bases, with the other ‘walls’ being the sand. 

Fee

There is no special trail or beach fee and you don’t pass through any Olympic National Park entrance station to enter Ruby Beach so you can visit the beach for free.  

However, if you are going to enter other sections of Olympic National Park like Sol Duc, Hoh Rain Forest and Hurricane Hill, you will need to pay the Olympic National Park entrance fee. Paying the fee helps support our parks.  

Buy it online or, if you are planning to visit more than just Olympic National Park this year (Mount Rainier National Park and North Cascades National Park are both close), it can be great value to purchase an America The Beautiful pass.    

When is Ruby Beach open?

Ruby Beach is open year-round.

Ruby Beach Tide Chart

Check the official Kalaloch beach tide chart here when you are planning your trip so you can visit at the right time. Plan to arrive at the beach at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide.

Pros of Ruby Beach Tide Pools

• Short trail to the beach
• Tide pools form around the edges of sea stacks, so you can approach them directly from the sand without needing to walk on slippery rocks

Cons of Ruby Beach Tide Pools

• Need to clamber over driftwood to get to beach
• Not as much variety of marine life as Beach 4

READ MORE: Ruby Beach Guide

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4. Second Beach Tide Pools

Second Beach will literally take your breath away.  The usual oversized, sun-bleached driftwood piles and mystical sea stacks off shore create a breathtaking view.  The beach itself is sandy and easy to walk on. 

There are rock pools covered in kelp and sea grasses in the middle of the beach and more tide pools at the headlands at each end of the beach. 

Distance to beach

0.7 miles each way

Beach Access

Easy – moderate.  Most of the trail is a gradual decline, but as the trail nears the beach, it descends quite steeply down a series of stepped switchbacks.  When you reach the beach, there is sometimes a pile of driftwood to climb over, but sometimes you can walk directly from the trail n to the sandy beach.

Where to Find the Best Tide Pools on Second Beach

If you head left, there are rock pools around Teahwhit Head on the southern end of the beach.  Some of the best tide pools, though, are around the base of the sea stacks. 

Fee

There is no special trail or beach fee and you don’t pass through any Olympic National Park entrance station to enter Third Beach so you can visit the beach for free.  

However, if you are going to enter other sections of Olympic National Park like Sol Duc, Hoh Rain Forest and Hurricane Hill, you will need to pay the Olympic National Park entrance fee. Paying the fee helps support our parks.  

Buy it online or, if you are planning to visit more than just Olympic National Park this year (Mount Rainier National Park and North Cascades National Park are both close), it can be great value to purchase an America The Beautiful pass.    

When is Second Beach open?

Second Beach is open year-round.

Second Beach Tide Chart

I recommend checking the official tide chart here when you are planning your trip so you can visit at the right time.  Plan to arrive at the beach at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide.

Pros of Second Beach Tide Pools

• Very beautiful beach.
• Large parking area.

Cons of Second Beach Tide Pools

• Not as much marine life as some of the other beaches.
• Steep descent to beach.

READ MORE: Second Beach Guide

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5. Third Beach Tide Pools

Third Beach is the least visited of these beaches, mostly because it is a longer hike to get there. 

It’s worth the effort to get there, though. The beach is beautiful and there are rock pools with giant kelp as well as tide pools with sea creatures to discover.

Distance to beach

1.4 miles each way.

Beach Access

Moderate.  The trail is the longest access trails to the five beaches listed here.  It’s mostly flat, but does have some elevation change, and there are tree roots to look out for. 

When you arrive at the beach, you need to walk along the top of several enormous driftwood logs to get to the beach. 

Where to Find the Best Tide Pools on Third Beach  

There are some rocks in front of you as you get on the beach.  These are often covered in giant kelp and sea grasses.  There are more tide pools at the headlands at each end of the beach.  

Fee

There is no special trail or beach fee and you don’t pass through any Olympic National Park entrance station to enter Third Beach so you can visit the beach for free.  

However, if you are going to enter other sections of Olympic National Park like Sol Duc, Hoh Rain Forest and Hurricane Hill, you will need to pay the Olympic National Park entrance fee. Paying the fee helps support our parks.  

Buy it online or, if you are planning to visit more than just Olympic National Park this year (Mount Rainier National Park and North Cascades National Park are both close), it can be great value to purchase an America The Beautiful pass.    

When is Third Beach open?

Third Beach is open year-round.

La Push Beaches Tides Chart

As with the other beaches, you’ll need to visit at low tide.  Plan to arrive at Third Beach at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide. 

Check the official tide chart here when you are planning your trip so you can visit at the right time.

Pros of Second Beach Tide Pools

• Fewer people than the other beaches.
• Beautiful beach with a coastal waterfall.

Cons of Second Beach Tide Pools

• Limited parking at the trailhead.
• Longer hike to the beach.
• Not as much marine life as some of the other tide pools.

READ MORE: Third Beach Guide

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Map of Olympic National Park Tide Pools

Here are the locations of the beaches with the best tide pooling in Olympic National Park.

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What You Need To Take/ Wear Tide pooling in Olympic National Park

1. I recommend taking a rain jacket and wearing layers that you can take off or put on depending on the weather, which can change throughout the day. If you need one, I like this Columbia rain jacket for men and this Little Donkey Andy rain jacket for women.
2. You will definitely want to take a camera.  I love the GoPro HERO 12.  It is designed for travel.  It’s water resistant and durable, which is especially important when you might slip and the camera could end up wet.  Check current prices on the GoPro HERO 12 here 
3. Check my list of essential things to take and wear on a day hike to make sure you have everything you need.
4. Water shoes or sturdy hiking shoes or boots or sandals with a good sole.  You’ll spend most of the time walking on sloping, wet rocks.  They can be slippery.  They are also sharp, as you may end up walking over shells that have very sharp edges.  So, you’ll want to wear good hiking boots, shoes or sandals.
   If you need to get some boots, take a look at my Guide to Buying the Best Hiking Shoes/ Boots to help you know what to look for and get some recommendations.  My top pick is this pair of Salomon Gore-Tex boots.  An alternative to hiking shoes or boots are hiking sandals.  These have the advantage of being fine in water as well as having good grip.  If you’re interested in buying some, check out my Complete Guide To The Best Hiking Sandals or get my favorite pair: KEEN Unisex-Adult Targhee 3 Open Toe Hiking Sport Sandal
5. Take water. I love this hydroflask. It’s easy to carry, keeps temperatures well, and comes in multiple colors.

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Tips for Exploring the Olympic National Park Tide Pools

Here are my top tips for exploring the tide pools that will make your experience safer and more enjoyable.

1. Time the hike for low tide

You can see tidepools during positive tide times (up to 1.5), but the best low tide times are below 0 tide.  Plan to arrive at the beach at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide so you have sufficient time to spend there before your return hike.  

2. Check the tide chart

I recommend checking the official NOAA tide chart here when you are planning your trip so you can visit at the right time.  This tide chart is considered the most reliable and is the one recommended by the NPS. 

When you look at the tide chart, you may notice that some low tides are ‘negative tides’ meaning that they go below sea level.  This is when tide pools are best, though any low tide is usually fine.

3. Wear the right footwear

When exploring the tidepools, you’ll need to clamber over wet rocks that can be steep and slippery and have sharp shells.  To reach most of these beaches, you need to hike through coastal forest and then clamber over large driftwood piles. 

So, it’s essential that you have comfortable hiking shoes or boots that you can then get wet and have really good tread.  I really like this pair of Salomon Gore-Tex boots.

Or alternatively, you can wear hiking shoes to the beach and then swap into water shoes that have good tread.  If you’re interested in buying some hiking sandals, check out my Complete Guide To The Best Hiking Sandals or get my favorite pair: KEEN Unisex-Adult Targhee 3 Open Toe Hiking Sport Sandal

4. Note the trail back when you arrive

When you get on to the beach, take a look back so you can easily identify where you entered (and therefore where you to exit) the beach. 

Some beaches are easier than others to identify because of the unusual formations, but if not, there is usually a circular sign with alternating red and black quarters on a nearby tree to indicate where you’ll find the trail back from the beach to the parking lot.

5. Be prepared for cold (and changeable) weather

While it can be warm and sunny in summer, this is by no means guaranteed.  The Pacific Northwest is much more famous for fog and rain than it is for sun.

Even when the sun is shining inland, the beach is often shrouded in fog and it can rain at any time.  I recommend taking a rain coat with you. If you need a raincoat, I like this Columbia rain jacket for men and this Little Donkey Andy rain jacket for women.

6. Watch the tides and waves

Keep a careful out for the returning tide and look at the time (know in advance the tide times) so you can make sure you safely make it back before the tide rises.  Also keep an eye out for “sneaker waves.”

7. Test rocks before stepping on them

Many of the rocks will be covered in algae and seaweed, which makes them extremely slippery.  Never leap from rock to rock.  Always step carefully and test rocks with one foot while keeping your weight on a secure foot before committing to stepping on new surfaces. 

8. Keep children close

Rocks and waves can be unpredictable, and rocks are slippery, so always keep a very careful eye on children and don’t venture far on to the rocks if they seem unsafe.

9. Leave your dog(s) at home

Dogs are actually not permitted on these beaches (near the rock pools) and there are several good reasons.  One reason is that tide pools can have sharp rocks, mussels and barnacles that can slice into dog’s paws and cause infection.

10. Peer under rocks

When you see rock overhangs in the water, look under the rocks.  There are often creatures like hanging sea anemones hiding under the overhang.

11. Only step on bare rocks

Avoid stepping on barnacles and mollusks – they are living creatures. And, as always, Leave No Trace. As with every trail, beach, etc. that you visit, always leave the tide pools and beach exactly as you found them. 😊 

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Weather

Summer is by far the most popular time to visit the Olympic Peninsula and this is also when the weather is by far the best.  There is a lot – in WP already less rain in summer, though rain and thunderstorms are possible at any time and it can be foggy on the coast even on sunny days.  Temperatures are mild. August is the warmest month of the year, but even then, average temperatures are between 53.1°F and 64.8°F.

Winter is by far the wettest season.  This is when the region gets the bulk of the rain – and it is a LOT of rain.  Temperatures are surprisingly mild, though. The coldest month is December, with an average low-temperature of 40.6°F and an average high-temperature of 45.5°F.

Spring and Fall are similar but opposite.  In spring, the temperature is rising and the rainfall is decreasing, while in fall, temperatures are falling and rainfall is increasing.  

September is a lovely month with still very mild temperatures and not too much rain, but the other months are a mixed bag, with unpredictable weather.

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FAQS about Olympic National Park Tide Pools

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Travel Insurance for Olympic National Park  

No matter which tide pools you visit, you should definitely get travel insurance.  This can protect you against medical and emergency repatriation, and cover things like trip cancellation, loss and/ or theft of property, etc.

A great insurance option is Travelex.  It has coverage for all you’ll need. You can choose the best travel insurance plan for your trip here or get a quote right now:

Enjoy these tide pools: Washington coast

You might also like:

>> Olympic National Park Guide
>> The Best Olympic National Park Beaches 
>> Best Lake Quinault Rainforest Hikes
>> Best Hoh Rainforest Hikes 
>> Best Sol Duc Hikes 
>> Best Lake Crescent Hikes 
>> Best Hurricane Ridge Hikes 
>> Guide to Visiting Hurricane Ridge
>> Best Waterfalls in Olympic National Park

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What do you think are the best tide pools: Olympic Peninsula?   I’d love to hear about them.  Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).

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Best Tide Pools Olympic National Park: Complete Guide

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About the Author

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Parks Collecting is a participant in the Amazon.com Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Second Beach in Olympic National Park is one of the most breathtaking beaches on the Pacific Northwest coast.  A wide sandy cove framed by rocky headlands and a natural arch, dramatic sea stacks and tiny islands rising out of the crashing surf, and piles of huge sun-bleached driftwood make for a breathtaking scene. It’s one of my favorite beaches in Olympic National Park.

You can visit the beach as a day trip, or camp on the beach overnight.

Whichever you choose to do, use this comprehensive guide to learn tips for visiting, what to see and do, what to wear, how to get there, and much more.

TOP TOUR: Book a full-day tour and hike now
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La Push Second Beach, Washington State: Complete Guide

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Basic Information about Olympic National Park Second Beach Trail Washington 

Distance: 0.7 miles walk each way 

Type: Out and back

Elevation change: 80 feet gain and 100 feet loss on way to beach

Time: 20-30 minutes each way

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate

Trailhead: Second Beach Trailhead on La Push Road

Highlights: Coastal forest; beautiful beach with driftwood and sea stacks offshore

Fee: There is no special trail fee and you don’t pass through any entrance station to enter Second Beach, so you can visit Second Beach for free.
However, if you are going to enter other sections of Olympic National Park like Sol Duc, Hoh Rain Forest and Hurricane Hill, you will need to pay the Olympic National Park entrance fee.
Buy it online or, if you are planning to visit more than just Olympic National Park this year (Mount Rainier National Park and North Cascades National Park are both close), it can be great value to purchase an America The Beautiful pass.    

Operating Hours and Season: Open year-round

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Tips for Visiting Second Beach, WA

Parking

Fortunately, there is ample parking at Second Beach.  It can still fill up, but there are a lot more spaces than nearby Third Beach.  There are actually two parking lots.  The main parking area next to the trailhead is small – only about ten spaces.  However, there is a much larger overflow parking area a little further along.  

If you’re coming from Forks, the parking is on the left.  You enter the main (small) parking area first.  To exit, you don’t go back the way you came.  You need to continue on the road heading in the direction back towards Forks and drive through the overflow parking lot to get back to La Push Road. 

Note the entrance/ exit to the beach

When you reach the beach, turn around and look for the circular sign with alternating black and red quarters posted high up a tree near the entrance.  This is a marker indicating where the trail is back to the parking lot so you can find your way back easily from the beach.

Time your visit for low tide

You can hike along part of the beach at high tide, but if you want to explore the rock pools, you’ll need to visit at low tide.  Plan to arrive at the beach at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide so you have sufficient time to spend there before your return hike.

Don’t expect warm sunny weather

The Pacific Northwest is much more famous for fog and rain than it is for sun. The beach is often shrouded in fog and it can rain at any time.  I recommend taking a rain coat with you. If you need a raincoat, I like this Columbia rain jacket for men and this Little Donkey Andy rain jacket for women.

Visit at sunrise or sunset

In the early morning, you will have the beach almost to yourself, as most beach campers are still asleep and few day trippers get there that early.  The light is beautiful and the early morning fog makes for magical photos of the ocean and sea stacks. 

The sunsets are often spectacular here, too.

If you do either sunrise or sunset, unless you’re beach camping, you’ll need to hike to/ from the beach in the dark.  You’ll need a good headlamp.  You can get a headlamp here if you need one (or two).

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Second Beach Washington Map

You can use this Second Beach Olympic National Park map – it’s perfectly sufficient for this hike, which is along a clearly marked trail to the beach and back.  

However, if you’re going to be doing more hiking in Olympic National Park, this map won’t be enough and it’s worth getting a National Geographic topographic hiking trails map of Olympic National Park before you go.

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Description of Second Beach Trail, Olympic National Park 

The Second Beach hike has some up and down sections and a steep descent to the beach near the end. 

The trail starts at the northern end of the parking lot.  There is a port-a-potty by the trailhead.

The trail starts very wide and mostly flat and is very easy to follow.  It passes a moss-covered kiosk and then heads slightly downhill.  It soon passes a chain wire fence and private access gate to the Lonesome Creek Hatchery, which is managed by the Quileute Fisheries Department.

Although I thought this was a pretty inauspicious beginning, the trail soon gets better, as it heads deeper into the forest. The trail heads slightly downhill and crosses a small creek.

It climbs slightly then descends slowly through towering trees and past enormous ferns, winding gently around small marshes. 

After about 0.3 miles, the it starts to descend even more, going down a series of gradual steps. 

It then starts to switchback down a hill and the steps become steeper. I found them pretty easy to navigate, but this stepped section can be muddy and slippery in the wet season, so take care. 

The steps are kind of steep but should be able to be managed by most people with reasonable mobility. 

A couple of minutes before you arrive at the beach, you can see the ocean through the trees.  It’s just another couple of minutes from there down to the sand.

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Description of La Push Second Beach, Washington State 

When you arrive at the beach, there may be a pile of driftwood at the entrance that you need to climb over.  I’ve been there when you could walk straight on to the sand, so be prepared for any conditions.

If there is driftwood, be very careful, as the logs can move and roll as you walk on them.

When you arrive at the beach, don’t forget to look back and notice the small circular sign indicating where the trail is, so that you recognize it when you’re ready to return.

Looking north, you’ll see a rocky outcropping with a natural arch carved in it. At low tide, you can walk along the beach to this area, where there are plenty of tide pools to explore.  You can also see the natural arch up closer. 

To the south is Teahwhit Head, which blocks access to Third Beach on the other side.  Fewer people venture south, so you will often have the beach to yourself if you head in this direction. It’s about 1.5 miles along the beach to the headland.

Do NOT attempt to climb around either of these headlands as the rocks are very slippery and the tide is dangerous. 

In front of you, is Crying Lady Rock and the Quillayute Needles archipelago.

The Quillayute Needles are a group of several dozen small coastal islands that you can see in the distance.  They are part of the Washington Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Complex, which protects more than 870 islands and reefs and is home to an estimated 800 sea otters.  There are more than 14 species of seabirds, sea lions, harbor seals and sea otters on the Quillayute Needles alone. 

Sea otters off the north American west coast were slaughtered to almost complete extinction by 1911.  This is when hunting was made illegal. 

It wasn’t until the late 1960s when sea otters from Alaska were re-introduced along the Washington and Oregon coast that numbers slowly rebounded.  Keep a look out and you may see some from the beach.  

There are several fantastic sea stacks at Second Beach. Perhaps the most famous is Crying Lady Rock.  At low tide, you can walk out to it, though be very careful not to get caught by the incoming tide. The rock is allegedly shaped like a woman’s face and water runs down the side of the rock, hence its name.  You can decide for yourself if it looks like a crying woman’s face or not. 

There are several other iconic sea stacks off Second Beach. Supposedly you can climb to the top of the sea stack to your left when you first arrive at the beach, though I’ve never tried this. 

At low tide you can walk behind the largest sea stack where there is another sea stack behind it. 

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What You Need To Take/ Wear to Second Beach, Olympic National Park, WA

1. I recommend taking a rain jacket and wearing layers that you can take off or put on depending on the weather, which can change throughout the day. If you need one, I like this Columbia rain jacket for men and this Little Donkey Andy rain jacket for women.
2. You will definitely want to take a camera.  I love the GoPro HERO 12.  It’s designed for travel.  It’s water resistant and durable and takes photos, video and even does streaming.  Check current prices on the GoPro HERO 12 here 
3. Binoculars. Bald eagles and other birds are often seen here, so a good pair of binoculars will add to your experience. If you’re looking to buy some, check out my Guide to the Best Binoculars for the Money or pick up my top pick, these Vortex Diamondback HD 10×42.
4. Take water.  I love this hydroflask. It’s easy to carry, keeps temperatures well, and comes in multiple colors. 
5. Shoes or boots suitable for walking on rocks (that you may get wet) as well as hiking in the forest.  The trail to the beach has a lot of tree roots.   Then, when you’re at the beach, if you’re visiting at low tide, you’ll want to explore the tidal rock pools, which involves walking on sharp rocks.
   So, you’ll want to wear good hiking boots or shoes. If you need to get some, take a look at my Guide to Buying the Best Hiking Shoes/ Boots to help you know what to look for and get some recommendations.  My top pick is this pair of Salomon Gore-Tex boots.
6. Check my list of essential things to take and wear on a day hike to make sure you have everything you need.

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Camping at Second Beach, Olympic Peninsula

There are two options for Second Beach, La Push camping.  

1. Mora Campground

For camping near Second Beach Washington, Mora Campground is your best option.  It’s the nearest official NPS campground to Second Beach.  Although it’s a 10-minute drive away, it’s the closest thing there is to a Second Beach family campground.  

I’ve stayed here and it’s a nice campground with sites for tents and RVs set amongst trees.  There is a reservation system in effect for late May to late September.  There are 94 sites available and you can book on recreation.gov.  The rest of the year, it is first come, first-served.  

Each campsite has a fire ring (with a fire grate) and picnic table. Potable water and flush toilets are located throughout the campground.  No electrical hookups are available at any campsites, but there is a RV dump station available (summer only) for $10 fee ($5 for Senior or Access Passes).

2. Camping on Second Beach, La Push, Washington

If you enjoy or would like to try beach camping, Second Beach is a great place.   You can camp anywhere along the beach, but of course, as with all the beaches, you need to make sure you’re above the high tide line, which means you’ll be close to the edge of the beach. 

Wilderness Camping Permits are required for La Push Second Beach camping.  Overnight permits can be obtained on the NPS. 

You can make your reservations here at the National Park Service website for a Second Beach campground / permit. Click on the “South Coast” and then “Second Beach”. 

Read more about Olympic National Park Wilderness Backpacking Reservations .

If you want to do this, a few things to keep in mind:

• You need to obtain a backcountry permit for camping on the beach. 
• All food, garbage, and scented items MUST be stored in hard-sided containers like bear canisters (raccoons are a problem).  You can get some ultra-lightweight ones here.
• Be sure to set up your tent above the high-water mark (which is very close to the edge of the beach).
• If you’re looking to get a tent, check my Guide to the Best Beach Camping Tents before you make a final decision. 
• You can use driftwood found on the beach to create a fire
• Although once you get to the beach, you can find a spot to pitch your tent nearby, it is a 0.7-mile hike to get to the beach, so you’ll need to be able to carry all your gear with you.
• Check my Beach Camping Packing List to make sure you have all you need 

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Lodging Near Second Beach, Olympic National Park, Washington

Second Beach is very close to La Push, though accommodations are very limited there.  It’s an hour and 15 minutes to Port Angeles, which is less convenient, but still possible. 

The most convenient place to stay nearby is Forks. It’s just 15 minutes away and there is a range of accommodations, plus several restaurants to choose form.

LUXURY OPTION: Misty Valley Inn

Check availability for Misty Valley Inn

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MID-RANGE OPTION: Woodlands Inn

Check availability for Woodlands Inn

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BUDGET OPTION: Pacific Inn Motel

Check availability at Pacific Inn Motel

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Second Beach Tide Charts

Although you can walk along part of the beach at high ride, you may find yourself doing more scrambling over driftwood than strolling along the beach.  So, I recommend visiting at low tide.  Plan to arrive at Second Beach at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide. 

I recommend checking the official tide chart here when you are planning your trip so you can visit at the right time. 

When you look at the tide chart, you may notice that some low tides are ‘negative tides’ meaning that they go below sea level.  The negative tides are best for tide pooling, as the water levels are the lowest.  However, regular low tides are fine.  

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Weather at Second Beach, La Push, WA

Summer is by far the most popular time to visit the Olympic Peninsula and this is also when the weather is by far the best.  There’s a lot less rain in summer, though rain and thunderstorms are possible at any time and it can be foggy on the coast even on sunny days.  Temperatures are mild. August is the warmest month of the year, but even then, average temperatures are between 53.1°F and 64.8°F.

Winter is by far the wettest season.  This is when the region gets the bulk of the rain – and it is a LOT of rain.  Temperatures are surprisingly mild, though. The coldest month is December, with an average low-temperature of 40.6°F and an average high-temperature of 45.5°F.

Spring and Fall are similar but opposite.  In spring, the temperature is rising and the rainfall is decreasing, while in fall, temperatures are falling and rainfall is increasing.  

September is a lovely month with still very mild temperatures and not too much rain, but the other months are a mixed bag, with unpredictable weather. 

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Directions to 2nd Beach

Here are directions to Second Beach from key departure points:

Forks to Second Beach

Follow WA-101 north from Forks for 1.5 miles.  Turn left onto La Push Road (WA-110). After 13 miles (about 15 minutes), you’ll see a sign for Third Beach and a parking lot on your left.  It’s a short distance after Third Beach. 

Port Angeles to Second Beach

From Port Angeles, drive US-101 west for 55 miles. Turn onto WA-110 West (La Push Road).  After 11.5 miles (about 15 minutes), you’ll see a sign for Third Beach and a small parking on your left.  If you come to Second Beach, you’ve gone too far. After 13 miles (about 15 minutes), you’ll see a sign for Third Beach and a parking lot on your left.  It’s a short distance after Third Beach.

Hoh Rainforest to Second Beach

Take Hoh Valley Rd/Upper Hoh Rd for 18 miles back to WA-101.  Turn right and take WA-101 north for 14.6 miles.  Drive through Forks. Another 1.5 miles from the center of Forks, take the turn off to La Push Road (WA-110) on your left. After 13 miles (about 15 minutes), you’ll see a sign for Third Beach and a parking lot on your left.  It’s a short distance after Third Beach.

Seattle to Second Beach

There are two main routes from Seattle to Second Beach.

The northern route heads out from Seattle to the Seattle – Bainbridge Ferry to Bainbridge Island.  Check ferry times here.  Then get on WA-3 N in Poulsbo from WA-305 N. Follow WA-104 W and US-101 N for 113 miles through Port Angeles to WA-110 W/La Push Rd in Forks.  Turn right onto La Push Road. After 13 miles (about 15 minutes), you’ll see a sign for Third Beach and a parking lot on your left.  It’s a short distance after Third Beach. This trip takes a little under 4 hours, though travel times varies with the ferry schedule and traffic.

The southern route is a little longer.  Head south from Seattle to Tacoma. Follow I-5 S, WA-8 W and US-12 W to 95190/Wynoochee Valley Rd in Grays Harbor County. Take the exit toward Devonshire Road from US-12 W. Continue on 95190/Wynoochee Valley Rd. Take 51800/Wynooche Wishkah Rd to US-101 N.  Turn right onto US-101 N and follow 101 north for 91 miles, driving through Forks.  Another 1.5 miles from the center of Forks, take the turn off to La Push Road (WA-110) on your left. After 13 miles (about 15 minutes), you’ll see a sign for Third Beach and a parking lot on your left.  It’s a short distance after Third Beach.  This route typically takes a little over 4 hours but doesn’t require a ferry.

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FAQS about Second Beach, Forks, WA

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Travel Insurance for Olympic National Park

Whether you’re visiting Second Beach for a day or camping overnight, you should definitely get travel insurance.  This can protect you not only against medical and emergency repatriation, but can also cover things like trip cancellation, loss and/ or theft of property, etc.  

A great insurance option is Travelex.  It has coverage for all you’ll need. You can choose the best travel insurance plan for your trip here or get a quote right now:

Enjoy Second Beach!

You might also like:

>> Olympic National Park Guide
>> The Best Olympic National Park Beaches
>> Rialto Beach
>> Beach 4
>> Third Beach
>> Best Lake Quinault Rainforest Hikes
>> Best Hoh Rainforest Hikes
>> Best Sol Duc Hikes
>> Best Lake Crescent Hikes
>> Best Hurricane Ridge Hikes
>> Guide to Visiting Hurricane Ridge
>> Best Waterfalls in Olympic National Park

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Do you have any tips for visiting Second Beach in Olympic National Park or questions about it, I’d love to hear about them.  Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).

FREE DOWNLOAD
Subscribe to regular updates with tips for planning, travel inspiration and trip ideas and get instant access to the free PDF of the
La Push Second Beach, Washington State: Complete Guide

If you liked this post, please share the love and Pin It to your Olympic National Park board!

About the Author

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Parks Collecting is a participant in the Amazon.com Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A lovely hike through coastland forest takes you to the stunningly beautiful Third Beach near La Push, Washington. 

Huge piles of driftwood, off-shore sea stacks, and a coastal waterfall cascading right into the ocean make this is one of the most dramatic beaches on the Pacific Northwest coast.

Third Beach is a wonderful day trip, a popular place for beach camping, and the starting point for the long backcountry trek along the South Wilderness Coast.

I found visiting Third Beach a little difficult when I first went, so I’ve written this guide to help you know what to do, what to take and wear, and what to expect, as well as give you tips for visiting.

TOP TOUR: Book a full-day private tour and hike now
TOP HOTEL PICK: Check availability now
FIND THE CHEAPEST CAR RENTAL: Search Discover Cars for the best deals
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Please note this post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at zero cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full Disclosure for more information. If you have any questions, please contact me.

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Guide to Third Beach

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Details of Third Beach Trail, Olympic National Park

Third Beach is the furthest of the La Push and Kalaloch beaches from the parking lot. Some of the more northern beaches like Shi Shi have even longer hikes, but of the southern (La Push and Kalaloch) beaches, the 1.4-mile hike to the beach is the longest. 

That’s not a bad thing – the Third Beach hike is a lovely walk through coastal forest – but it does deter some people. 

Distance: 1.4 miles each way

Type: Out-and-back

Elevation change: 240 feet elevation loss on the way to the beach

Time: 45-60 minutes walk each way

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate

Third Beach Trailhead: The Third Beach parking lot on La Push Road.  It’s a 15-minute drive from Forks.  Coming from Forks, it’s before Second Beach. 

Highlights: Coastal forest; beach with sea stacks; driftwood; and waterfall

Fee: There is no special trail fee and you don’t pass through any entrance station to enter Third Beach, so you can visit Third Beach for free.  However, if you’re going to enter other sections of Olympic National Park like Sol Duc, Hoh Rain Forest and Hurricane Hill, you’ll need to pay the Olympic National Park entrance fee.

Buy it online or, if you are planning to visit more than just Olympic National Park this year (Mount Rainier National Park and North Cascades National Park are both close), it can be great value to purchase an America The Beautiful pass.    

Open: Open year-round

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Tips for Visiting La Push Third Beach, Olympic National Park

Based on my visits to Third Beach, here are my tips:

Get there early

One of the major downsides to Third Beach is the size of the parking lot.  It’s small – just 20 spaces.  Combine that with the fact that it’s usually mostly full with the parked vehicles of people who are camping on the beach or further along the South Coast Route, that leaves very few spaces for casual day hikers.

I recommend carpooling or shuttling if possible and getting there as early as possible.  I’ve been there at 5:30am (in the dark) and nabbed the second last spot. 

If you do get there in the dark, you’ll need a good headlamp.  You can get a headlamp here if you need one (or two).

Note the entrance/ exit to the beach when you arrive there

When you reach the beach, turn around and look for the small sign posted high up a tree near the entrance.  This is a circular marker with alternating red and black quarters indicating where the trail is back to the parking lot so you can find your way back easily from the beach.

Time your visit for low tide

You can hike along the beach at high tide, but if you want to explore the rock pools, you’ll need to visit at low tide.  Plan to arrive at the beach at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide so you have sufficient time to spend there before the tide comes in.

Don’t expect warm sunny weather

(Even in summer)

The Pacific Northwest is much more famous for fog and rain than it is for sun. The beach is often shrouded in fog and it can rain at any time.  I recommend taking a rain coat with you. If you need a raincoat, I like this Columbia rain jacket for men and this Little Donkey Andy rain jacket for women.

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Map of Third Beach, Washington Trail

You can use this map – it’s perfectly sufficient for this hike, which is along a clearly marked trail to the beach and back.  

However, if you’re going to be doing more hiking in Olympic National Park, this map won’t be enough and it’s worth getting a National Geographic topographic hiking trails map of Olympic National Park before you go.

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What You Need to Take/ Wear to 3rd Beach

1. I recommend taking a rain jacket and wearing layers that you can take off or put on depending on the weather, which can change throughout the day. If you need one, I like this Columbia rain jacket for men and this Little Donkey Andy rain jacket for women.
2. You’ll definitely want to take a camera.  I love the GoPro HERO 12.  It’s designed for travel.  It’s water resistant and durable and takes photos, video and even does streaming.  Check current prices on the GoPro HERO 12 here 
3. Binoculars.  The sea stacks are further off shore than some of the Olympic beaches.  Plus, bald eagles and other birds are often seen here.  So, a good pair of binoculars will add to your experience.
   If you’re looking to buy some, check out my Guide to the Best Binoculars for the Money or pick up my top pick, these Vortex Diamondback HD 10×42.
4. Take water.   I love this hydroflask. It’s easy to carry, keeps temperatures well, and comes in multiple colors. 
5. Shoes or boots suitable for walking on rocks (that you may get wet).  If you’re visiting at low tide, you’ll want to explore the tidal rock pools, which involves walking on sharp rocks.  In addition to walking on rocks to explore the tide pools, you’ll also hike to/ from the beach, so you’ll want to wear good hiking boots or shoes.
   If you need to get some, take a look at my Guide to Buying the Best Hiking Shoes/ Boots to help you know what to look for and get some recommendations.  My top pick is this pair of Salomon Gore-Tex boots.
6. Check my list of essential things to take and wear on a day hike to make sure you have everything you need.

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Third Beach, WA Description

The parking lot at Third Beach is small, with just 20 spaces.  There is a small toilet block at the trailhead plus bear-proof trash cans.

From the trailhead, there’s a clear trail through the towering hemlock trees of the coastal forest.  At eye level are enormous ferns plus moss, lichens and various fungi.  If the weather is right, you might see yellow banana slugs on the ground or undergrowth.

After about a mile, the trail narrows and starts to descend.  Most of the elevation change is in the last 0.4 miles. This section can be muddy and slippery after rain.

Look through the trees and there’s a breathtaking view of the beach with driftwood in the foreground.

You’ll then descend to the beach.  The trail gets a little rougher here.  Keep an eye out for tree roots around here, as tripping right near the end of the hike would not be fun.

The trail spits you out at a small creek and a large pile of driftwood.  You’ll need to climb over this mass of tree-trunk-sized driftwood.  

Look out for signs of the trail – the tops of the logs that people have walked on are worn down and sometimes covered in sand where people have walked.  This is the most direct way over the wood to the beach.

Be careful when climbing over the logs as they may shift as you climb on them.

Look back and you’ll notice a circular sign with alternating black and red quarters up high in the trees.  This is the marker indicating the trailhead back to the parking lot.

After the driftwood, you’ll arrive on the beautiful sandy beach.  Third Beach is about a mile long and you arrive in the middle of it.

To the right is Teahwhit Head (and beyond that is Second Beach).  

To the left is Taylor Point (and beyond the Scott Creek and the South Coast trail).   These points frame the cove.

Both are impassable at the shore level, and you shouldn’t attempt to climb around the rocks.  There is a trail that goes through the forest behind the southern headland.

Straight ahead at low tide are some rocks and tide pools. These are not my best tide pools in Olympic National Park because they are usually covered in long kelp and sea weed and are very slippery.  

You may see some sea stars and other tide pool marine life, or you may not. Be very careful when walking on or around them.

Go left and after about 0.5 miles, you’ll come to the Taylor Point headland.  There are more rocks and tide pools here.  Again, these rocks can be very slippery. 

A highlight of Third Beach is not so much the rocks at the southern end of the beach, but the coastal waterfall.

Strawberry Bay Falls is a lovely horsetail cascade that drops down the cliffside for about 100 feet on to the rocks and into the ocean below.  The falls are usually their fullest in the rainy season November through May.

Try to visit Third Beach at low tide, so you can walk along the beach and explore the driftwood as well.

Off shore at the southern end, you’ll see a group of sea stacks and small islands rising dramatically out of the sea. This is called the Giants Graveyard and provides a stunning backdrop for the southern views. It’s also an excellent habitat for resident seals and coastal seabirds. 

Third Beach is also a good place to see wildlife.  Look out for bald eagles, seals, and (March/April and October) whales off shore.

When you’re ready to return, look for the driftwood and sign marking the trail back to the parking lot.

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South Coast Route (and add-on day hike)

Third Beach is the start of the South Coast Wilderness Trail.  This is a long coastal and overland route that requires multiple days of backcountry camping.  You need a permit and have to time your hike with the tides, as several sections are only passable at low tide.  

If you want to do that trek, you’ll need to get permits and plan carefully.  This guide is not about that.

However, it’s possible to do a short part of this trail as an add-on to your day trip to Third Beach.  If you’re up for a bit of a challenge and enjoy a forest walk, it’s worth the effort.

The trail starts near the southern end of Third Beach.

You’ll see a rope hanging down along a steep incline.

You’ll need to use this to climb up (and then back down at the end).

There are mostly flat sections through coastal forest and past enormous ferns.

However, there are also a couple more rope-assisted clambers up steep slopes and a rustic ladder to ascend.

After about ten minutes, you’ll come to a viewpoint with a lovely view through the trees of Third Beach below.

The trail wanders through the forest.

After another half an hour, you’ll come to another view of Third Beach.

I recommend turning back here unless you’re doing the multi-day through hike. This entire add-on hike should take about 1.5 hours.

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Third Beach Camping

There are two options for camping at and near Third Beach.  

1. Mora Campground

This is the nearest official NPS campground to Third Beach.  It’s very close as the crow flies, but the Quinault River lies between them, so it’s actually a 10-minute drive.  

I’ve stayed here and it’s a nice campground with sites for tents and RVs set amongst trees.  There’s a reservation system in effect for late May to late September.  There are 94 sites available and you can book on recreation.gov.  The rest of the year, it’s first come, first-served.  

Each campsite contains a fire ring (with a fire grate) and picnic table. Potable water and flush toilets are located throughout the campground.  No electrical hookups are available at any campsites, but there’s a RV dump station available (summer only) for $10 fee ($5 for Senior or Access Passes).

2. Camping on Third Beach

If you like beach camping, Third Beach Washington is great.  You do need to hike there with your gear, but the longish hike means that there are usually fewer casual visitors.  

You can pretty much choose wherever you want to camp once you get to the beach. Of course, as with all the beaches, you need to make sure you’re above the high tide line, which means you’ll be close to the edge of the beach. 

Wilderness Camping Permits are required for overnight camping at Third Beach Washington.  Camping permits can be obtained on the NPS. 

You can make your reservations here at the National Park Service website. Click on “South Coast” and then “Third Beach”. 

Read more about Olympic National Park Wilderness Backpacking Reservations .

If you want to do this, a few things to keep in mind:

• You need to obtain a backcountry permit for camping on the beach. 
• All food, garbage, and scented items MUST be stored in hard-sided containers like bear canisters (raccoons are a problem).  You can get some ultra-lightweight ones here.
• Be sure to set up your tent above the high-water mark (which is very close to the edge of the beach).
• If you are looking to get a tent, check my Guide to the Best Beach Camping Tents before you make a final decision. 
• You can use driftwood found on the beach to create a fire.
• Although once you get to the beach, you can find a spot to pitch your tent nearby, it is a 1.4-mile hike to get to the beach, so you will need to be able to carry all your gear with you.
• Check my Beach Camping Packing List to make sure you have all you need.

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Hotels near Third Beach, La Push, WA

Third Beach is very close to La Push, though accommodations are very limited there.  It’s an hour and 15 minutes to Port Angeles, which is less convenient, but still possible. 

The most convenient place to stay nearby is Forks. It’s just 15 minutes away and there is a range of accommodations, plus several restaurants to choose form.

LUXURY OPTION: Misty Valley Inn

Check availability for Misty Valley Inn

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MID-RANGE OPTION: Woodlands Inn

Check availability for Woodlands Inn

MID-RANGE OPTION: Red Lion Hotel

Check availability at Red Lion Hotel

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BUDGET OPTION: Pacific Inn Motel

Check availability at Pacific Inn Motel

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Tide Chart for Third Beach

Although you can walk along part of the beach even at high tide, you may find yourself doing more scrambling over driftwood than strolling along the beach if you visit then.  Plus, the tide pools are only exposed at low tide.

So, I recommend visiting at low tide.  Plan to arrive at Third Beach at least 30 minutes before the lowest tide. 

Check the official tide chart here when you’re planning your trip so you can visit at the right time. 

When you look at the tide chart, you may notice that some low tides are ‘negative tides’ meaning that they go below sea level.  The negative tides are best for tide pooling, as the water levels are the lowest.  However, regular low tides are fine.  

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Weather at Third Beach La Push WA, Olympic National Park

Summer is by far the most popular time to visit the Olympic Peninsula and this is also when the weather is by far the best.  There is a lot less rain in summer, though rain and thunderstorms are possible at any time and it can be foggy on the coast even on sunny days.  Temperatures are mild. August is the warmest month of the year, but even then, average temperatures are between 53.1°F and 64.8°F.

Winter is by far the wettest season.  This is when the region gets the bulk of the rain – and it is a LOT of rain.  Temperatures are surprisingly mild, though. The coldest month is December, with an average low-temperature of 40.6°F and an average high-temperature of 45.5°F.

Spring and Fall are similar but opposite.  In spring, the temperature is rising and the rainfall is decreasing, while in fall, temperatures are falling and rainfall is increasing.  

September is a lovely month with still very mild temperatures and not too much rain, but the other months are a mixed bag, with unpredictable weather. 

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Directions to Third Beach

Where is Third Beach, Washington?

Third Beach lies near the end of La Push Road, a short distance before the small village of La Push. 

Directions to Third Beach from key departure points

Forks to Third Beach 

Follow WA-101 north from Forks for 1.5 miles.  Turn left onto La Push Road (WA-110). After 11.5 miles (about 15 minutes), you’ll see a sign for Third Beach and a small parking lot on your left.  If you come to Second Beach, you’ve gone too far.

Port Angeles to Third Beach

From Port Angeles, drive US-101 west for 55 miles. Turn onto WA-110 West (La Push Road).  After 11.5 miles (about 15 minutes), you’ll see a sign for Third Beach and a small parking lot on your left.  If you come to Second Beach, you’ve gone too far.

Hoh Rainforest to Third Beach 

Take Hoh Valley Rd/Upper Hoh Rd for 18 miles back to WA-101.  Turn right and take WA-101 north for 14.6 miles.  Drive through Forks. Another 1.5 miles from the center of Forks, take the turn off to La Push Road (WA-110) on your left. After 11.5 miles (about 15 minutes), you’ll see a sign for Third Beach and a small parking lot on your left.  If you come to Second Beach, you’ve gone too far.

Seattle to Third Beach

There are two main routes from Seattle to Third Beach.

The northern route heads out from Seattle to the Seattle – Bainbridge Ferry to Bainbridge Island.  Check ferry times here.  Then get on WA-3 N in Poulsbo from WA-305 N. Follow WA-104 W and US-101 N for 113 miles through Port Angeles to WA-110 W/La Push Rd in Forks.  Turn right onto La Push Road. After 11.5 miles (about 15 minutes), you’ll see a sign for Third Beach and a small parking lot on your left.  If you come to Second Beach, you’ve gone too far.  This trip takes a little under 4 hours, though travel times varies with the ferry schedule and traffic.

The southern route is a little longer.  Head south from Seattle to Tacoma. Follow I-5 S, WA-8 W and US-12 W to 95190/Wynoochee Valley Rd in Grays Harbor County. Take the exit toward Devonshire Road from US-12 W. Continue on 95190/Wynoochee Valley Rd. Take 51800/Wynooche Wishkah Rd to US-101 N.  Turn right onto US-101 N and follow 101 north for 91 miles, driving through Forks.  Another 1.5 miles from the center of Forks, take the turn off to La Push Road (WA-110) on your left. After 11.5 miles (about 15 minutes), you’ll see a sign for Third Beach and a small parking on your left.  If you come to Second Beach, you’ve gone too far. This route typically takes a little over 4 hours but doesn’t require a ferry.

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FAQS about Third Beach, Washington

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Travel Insurance for Olympic National Park 

Whether you’re spending a couple of days, a couple of weeks or even longer on your trip to Olympic National Park, I always recommend getting travel insurance.  This can protect you against medical and emergency repatriation, and cover things like trip cancellation, loss and/ or theft of property, etc. 

A great insurance option is Travelex.  It has coverage for all you’ll need. You can choose the best travel insurance plan for your trip here or get a quote right now:

Enjoy Third Beach!

You might also like:

>> Olympic National Park Guide
>> The Best Olympic National Park Beaches 
>> Rialto Beach
>> Beach 4
>> Best Lake Quinault Rainforest Hikes
>> Best Hoh Rainforest Hikes 
>> Best Sol Duc Hikes 
>> Best Lake Crescent Hikes 
>> Best Hurricane Ridge Hikes 
>> Guide to Visiting Hurricane Ridge
>> Best Waterfalls in Olympic National Park

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Do you have any tips for visiting Third Beach or questions about it?  I’d love to hear about them.  Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more). 

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About the Author

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