North Shi Shi Access
Jul 15, 2004
- Type of Outing
- Day hike
- Read More in our Hiking Guide
- Hike: Shi Shi Beach and Point of the Arches
- Region: Olympics -- Coast
- Agency: Olympic National Park; Makah Nation
- Avg Rating: 4.32
- Be Aware Of
- Blowdowns
- Mudholes
Being that I had some weekday time off from work I chose to hike the North Shi Shi Access Trail to camp for a couple of days near Point Of The Arches. This is a hike I've dreamed about doing for many years but have never been brave enough to try on a weekend with all the reports of it's popularity and the ensuing huge crowds. After a stop at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles for my permit I arrived at Tilly's house for safe parking at around 6:00pm. She lives about a half mile from the trailhead and charges $5.00 for each day you're parked in her yard. A small price to pay for the peace of mind you receive knowing that your vehicle will be safe. Hers is the last house before the trailhead and the ranger in PA said there have never been any reports of vandalism with vehicles parked on her property. Not true of some of the other houses offering parking in the area. The first mile is on the new Makah Trail. This is easy boardwalk with nice trail signage. The next mile across Portage Head is yet to be completed by the Makah. There are some good size mudholes and a couple of blowdowns. All are easily navigated with a little bit of effort. The trail drops sharply to the north end of Shi Shi Beach at the two mile mark. I do mean sharply! It seems like about 200 feet down in 200 feet! Watch your step if carrying a heavy pack. I guess I still had my city legs at this point. Once on the beach I finally got the chance to realize why this is agruably the Northwest's most beautiful beach. Through the mist and fog I could see seals popping up in the surf and eagles soaring overhead. As I hiked south to the Point Of The Arches I passed Petroleum Creek and all the campsites here were full. Not to worry my goal was the tiny outlet stream from Willoughby Lake and easy access to the arches on the south end of Shi Shi Beach. I was not dissapointed. Upon arriving at the outlet stream and a lot of plodding amongst the driftwood in the fog I found a great campsite just south of the stream. It was set back in the trees with an awesome view of the arches. The camp even had a full picnic table made of driftwood! Perfect. After a rainy night the sun broke out the next morning just in time for exploring the Point and taking photos. You can make it a long way out into the arches at low tide. I could only get about half way out but I'm sure if you planned it for a large minus tide you could go farther. This spot is truly amazing. Large Stonehenge like monoliths guarding the coastline, Sea Caves, Tide Pools and Shore Birds. Some of these rocks are 140 million years old. You can really feel the sense of ancient history here. It was a photographer's dream. I truly recommend you do this hike during the weekdays. I only saw a half dozen other people the entire day. The hike out was just as nice with lots of sunshine and more photo op's. Have fun and take the time to soak in the peace that this special place has to offer. Happy Trails!!
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