4 days (approx.)
Daily Tour
5 people
English
The Olympic North Coast Backpacking trip offers a unique opportunity for guests to intimately explore the coastal regions along some of the most northwestern points in the continental United States. Traverse coastal forests to reach the beach, where wave-carved rock formations, teeming tide pools, and rugged cliffs await your presence. These shores are far from typical tropical beaches; they are the awe-inspiring, epic rocky shorelines you see in the movies. While this trail lacks strenuous elevation gain, it far makes up for it in its rocky obstacles. Our expedition offers a distinctive experience mastering the art of tide tables, tide timing, and headland conquests. This adventure demands a flexible attitude and adventurous spirit, promising remarkable moments of awe in pristine wilderness.
Olympic National Forest
Meet your guide(s) at the Rialto Beach Backpackers Parking Lot. It is at this location that you will get acquainted with the group, pass and pack gear, and cover our trip logistics. After completing our logistical introductions, we will shuttle over to the Ozette Trailhead via Lasting Adventures transportation (approximately 1 hour 45-minutes). At the Ozette trailhead, we will stop for a quick lunch and restroom break before embarking on our 3-mile hike to the Sand Point Campground. Breeze through this hike with easy terrain across mostly boardwalk that weaves through the refreshing misty coastal forest until you reach the beach and our camp at Sand Point. Sand Point offers campsite choices of either under the forest canopy or on the beach. This is also a great spot to explore tidepools and look for wildlife. Today’s Mileage: 3 mi / +150′, -150′
10 hours • Admission Ticket Not Included
Olympic National Park
Rise with the sun and kick-start your day with a delectable breakfast skillfully prepared by your guide. Begin your hike with a leisurely stroll along the beach, heading toward your initial tide restriction. If the tide is at its lowest and time permits, take in some of the coast’s finest tide-pooling experiences at Yellow Banks. After passing through the optional but incredibly fascinating cliff tunnel, continue your journey along the beach until you arrive at a rugged section adorned with breathtaking cliffs and panoramic views of sea stacks. Your seasoned guide will assist you in navigating the rocky terrain and seaweed-covered rocks, so keep your eyes out for any enchanting anemones and vibrant sea stars! The day culminates with a warm welcome at Norwegian Memorial Camp, where you can savor a hearty dinner while relishing the sunset from the pristine, white sandy beach. Today’s Mileage: 7.2 mi
8 hours • Admission Ticket Free
Olympic National Park
Set out early to prepare for an eventful day filled with conquering tide restrictions and headlands! You’ll cover six miles of captivating cliffs, rocky tidepools, and untouched, secluded beaches while threading your way through entertaining seaside boulder fields and coves. Once you’ve triumphed over the legendary yet splendid Cape Johnson, take a well-deserved break at Chilean Memorial Camp, knowing that you’ve just conquered the most challenging segment of the hike! Delight in a beachside campfire and soak in the breathtaking sunset views as the soothing sound of waves lulls you into a peaceful slumber. Today’s Mileage: 6 miles
8 hours • Admission Ticket Free
Rialto Beach
Continue your journey, skillfully traversing captivating cliffs and headlands bustling with vibrant sea life, leading you to Hole in the Wall, an iconic coastal gem! Traverse the sea stack’s arch, where you can marvel at tide pool ecosystems and stunning vistas of distant sea stacks. On the opposite side, discover the beauty of Rialto Beach. Savor the final miles filled with the briny essence of the sea, all while witnessing the graceful spectacle of pelicans gracefully skimming the crashing waves and colossal driftwood logs forming impressive stacks. Todays mileage: 3.6 miles
6 hours • Admission Ticket Free