Olympic National Park offers breathtaking backpacking experiences along the Pacific Ocean coastline. With rugged beaches, towering sea stacks, and lush rainforests, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. This guide covers the best trails, campsites, and essential information for planning your Olympic National Park backpacking adventure along the Pacific Ocean.
What are the Best Backpacking Trails with Pacific Ocean Views?
Ozette Loop
- Trail Length: 9.4 miles
- Elevation Gain: Moderate
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Ancient rainforests, sea stacks, tide pools, potential whale sightings
Shi Shi Beach and Point of Arches
- Trail Length: 8 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Pristine shoreline, sea stacks, tide pools, sea caves, beach camping
Toleak Point
- Trail Length: 17 miles one-way
- Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlights: Coastal views, marine life sightings, beach camping
Where are the Top-Rated Campsites for Backpackers?
- Cape Alava and Sand Point
- Toilets available
- Near beach and freshwater streams
-
Wilderness Camping Permit required
-
Beach Camping Along the Olympic Wilderness Coast
- Limited traditional campsites
- Most camping on beach above high tide line
-
Wilderness Camping Permit required
-
Ozette Lake
- Access to basic facilities
- Near lake and ocean
- Wilderness Camping Permit required
What are the Primary Coastal Backpacking Routes?
Olympic Wilderness Coast
- Access Points: Shi Shi, Ozette, Rialto Beach
- Estimated Hiking Times: 5-10 miles per day
- Challenges:
- Tidal areas
- Rocky headlands
- Bear canister requirement
- Potential harsh weather conditions
Ozette Loop and Cape Alava
- Access Point: Ozette trailhead
- Estimated Hiking Time: 2-3 days
- Challenges:
- Slick boardwalks
- High tide navigation
- Rocky tidal areas
Shi Shi Beach and Point of Arches
- Access Point: Shi Shi trailhead
- Estimated Hiking Time: 2-3 days
- Challenges:
- Rugged coastline
- High tide navigation
- Potential harsh weather
How to Plan for Parking, Transportation, and Costs?
Parking Facilities
- Available at trailheads (Shi Shi, Ozette, Rialto Beach)
- Limited spaces, especially during peak season
Transportation Options
- Shuttle Services
- Available for some trailheads
-
Useful for thru-hikes
-
Personal Vehicles
- Required for most access points
- May need staging for thru-hikes
Associated Costs
- Wilderness Camping Permits (required, fees apply)
- America the Beautiful Pass (required for some areas)
What Essential Gear is Needed for Olympic National Park Backpacking?
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Shelter | Tent, tarp, or bivy sack |
| Sleep System | Sleeping bag, sleeping pad |
| Cooking | Stove, fuel, cookware, utensils |
| Water | Water filter or purification system |
| Food Storage | Bear canister (required) |
| Navigation | Map, compass, GPS device |
| Safety | First aid kit, emergency communication device |
| Clothing | Weather-appropriate layers, rain gear |
How to Prepare for Tidal Considerations?
- Obtain tide charts for your trip dates
- Plan hikes around low tide periods
- Identify overland trails for high tide bypasses
- Be aware of ‘impassable headlands’ on your route
- Allow extra time for tidal area navigation
What Wildlife Precautions Should be Taken?
- Store food and scented items in bear canisters
- Keep a safe distance from all wildlife
- Be aware of marine life in tide pools
- Watch for whales, seals, and sea otters from a distance
- Know how to identify and avoid potentially dangerous animals
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable Olympic National Park backpacking experience along the Pacific Ocean. Remember to always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural environment during your adventure.
References:
1. The Pacific Coast in Olympic National Park
2. Five Most Popular Backpacking Trips in Olympic National Park
3. Top 3 Olympic National Park Backpacking Trips