North Coast Route

Hike through and alongside coastal forest, rocky cliffs and the wild Pacific coast on a relatively well-maintained route.

Hikes of varying lengths are possible along this route (not to be confused with the equally popular North Coast Trail on Vancouver Island). Campsites dot the way, including popular locations like Chilean Memorial, Norwegian Memorial, Yellow Banks, Cape Alava, and Shi Shi Beach. Backcountry permits and reservations are required to stay at these sites. Contact the Visitor's Information Center in Port Angeles for further information.

The route is technically flat, but sometimes requires the use of ropes or makeshift ladders to climb up and over high rocky bluffs on the beach. Be prepared for scrambling over large boulders, sliding on kelp-laden rocks, and wading through tide pools. Occasionally, it's possible to hike around these rather than over, when the tide is right, so having a tide table may be a wise 11th essential when undertaking this hike.

It is worth noting that much of this hike is a route, so requires route-finding, since hikers mostly walk along the beach and not on a delineated trail.

The views of the mighty Pacific, as well as the occasional bald eagle soaring between seastacks and arches make this hike a goal for many visitors and residents of Washington.

River crossings are required along the North Coast Route -- the Ozette River should be forded only at low tide. Note that it may be impassable in winter and during periods of heavy rain.