Cape Alava Loop (Ozette Triangle) — Saturday, Jun. 14, 2014

Olympic Peninsula > Pacific Coast

Cape Alava-Sand Point Loop GPS Data: http://www.movescount.com/moves/move33910254 The classic Ozette “Triangle” with three stretches of trail boardwalk to beaches and forest connects the loop at the western most point in the continental United States. Welcome to best of the NW. Start from the Ozette Ranger Station. Be sure to procure a permit for camping and a bear bin to fend off the relentless raccoons. The hike begins with a crossing over the Ozette river before traveling 3 miles through forest and wet regions along extensive boardwalks. The way is pleasant and mostly flat before opening up to dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean at Cape Alava. This makes a great camp for an overnight. Take a side stroll to the ancient Makah village site where artifacts have been dug up for the Makah museum in Neah Bay. The second three-mile stretch follows along the beach. Be sure to check tide charts to give yourself plenty of time to cross during low tide. About a mile in see if you can find the pictographs at wedding rock. Soak in the serene beach atmosphere, of sea stacks, tide pools and views of the Pacific Ocean. Climb up the bluff at Sand Point for a rest at the southern point of the triangle. Find the trail past Sand Point campsites for the final 3-mile stretch through lush forest canopy. Being sea level this hike is accessible year round.