Backpack the Olympic Coast

Starting at Third Beach trailhead, hike 1.5 miles through lush forests to Third Beach. Once at Third Beach, follow the trail until you find a latter to pull yourself up the bluff. Continue to meander again through the forest before descending back down to a little cove of Taylor Point. Make sure you have the tide tables with you here as you could wait for hours until low tide to cross. Again, you follow the trail back into the forest before reaching Scotts Bluff (6mi round trip), Strawberry Point (10mi round trip), or Toleak Point (12mi round trip) - all are great places to set up camp and provide a great place to take off your shoes and hike with the sand between your toes if you like. Admire the variety of tide pools along the way and the washed up seaweed. If you have time, collect driftwood for the fire in the evening. Toleak Point has hidden toilets to use if you so desire. Camp on the beach or find protection in little nooks and crannies along the treeline.

You can continue the hike further for multiple days if desired or return the way you came. The trail along the coast runs a total of 17 miles and can be done if you shuttle two cars. A trip from Third Beach to Toleak Point is gentle but also tests people's abilities for climbing bluffs using ropes and ladders. Be patient as these can be slippery when wet.

After reaching Toleak Point, consider exploring the tide pools or walk a little further to the hidden arches. As the sun goes down, collect firewood and watch the sun set behind crashing waves.