Rialto Beach and Hole-in-the-Wall — Monday, Jul. 8, 2024

This spring has been extremely busy, and I’ve hardly gotten outside at all. But I really felt the need for some time alone, away from cell service, to recharge. I’ve been thinking about Rialto Beach since our trip there a couple of years ago, and thought it was just the place to go again.

I caught an early ferry from Edmonds and made it to the Ranger Station in Port Angeles just after they opened. Since I had made a last-minute decision to do this trip, it was too late to get a permit online, so I went in person. It was a pretty easy drive to the beach from there. The parking was easier than the last time I went, thankfully. I ate a quick lunch before starting my hike, and was on the trail by noon.

I don’t remember there being so much driftwood blocking the beach access, but I actually had a hard time finding my way through with my heavy pack. But soon I joined the throngs of people walking up the beach to Hole-in-the-Wall. Highlights of the beach walk included a river otter, pelicans, and chattering eagles. Ellen Creek was invisible in the sand.

There were not as many tents set up as last time I went here, and I was able to get the amazing spot we used before. It’s so cool to have your tent tucked into the trees, with a view of the sea and your own fire pit. I spent the whole afternoon and evening lounging around, took a nap, read my book, wrote in my journal, and even allowed myself to get bored. Eagles chattered above me, and one even flew right through my camp! What a thrill!

I did have a visit from a raccoon, but managed to scare it off. The sunset was lovely. The night was mild, and the morning dawned sunny though dewy.

I explored the tide pools with the morning’s low tide. It’s cool to see organisms that we don’t find in Puget Sound. I packed up leisurely and was back at my car by noon.

There was a gentleman who fell in the tide pool area and was not able to walk out. Someone had cell service somehow, and was able to call the rangers for help. They brought out a wheeled contraption to take him back. I hope he has a quick recovery.

I didn’t notice mosquitoes, but I did come home with a couple of bites, so I guess there were more than I thought. The privy is rough - missing the door, and the level of waste is almost to the floor. But the view from the throne is lovely.

I brought a bit less than 4 liters of water, and it was just about right for the time I was there. I think a full 4 liters would allow me to drink as much as I felt I needed.

This is one of my all-time favorite camping spots. I’m so glad I was able to carve out the time to go.