Cape Alava Loop (Ozette Triangle) — Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016

Olympic Peninsula > Pacific Coast

We chose to do this as a two night backpacking trip. We got to Port Angeles at 8:10am on Thursday to get our permit and there was a line out the door already. The WIC was well-staffed so we didn't have to wait too long. The parking lot at the Ozette Ranger Station was packed so I recommend getting there early to find parking (can't imagine what it's like on a weekend). We headed out to Cape Alava for the first night and timed the hike to Sand Point with low tide. Unfortunately, we missed the petroglyphs that are approximately half way between Cape Alava and Sand Point because we were having too much fun in the tide pools... we'll just have to go back! The bugs weren't bad at all. We brought bug spray but didn't need it. We had a mother and baby deer that frequently visited our site and didn't mind us being there at all. Water at Cape Alava had receded quite a bit so we had to hike up the creek a short distance to get water. You'll want to bush whack just a bit and head up the creek at Sand Point to get water too. Doesn't look good at all - just make sure you are using a good water filter or boil the water first. Lots of critters around so make sure you get the bear can from the WIC in Port Angeles when you get your permit. The three miles between Cape Alava and Sand Point take a while as you navigate the terrain and I would recommend good, supportive boots over shoes. The pit toilets at both locations were quite 'ripe' and you could smell them from nearby sites so I would recommend giving yourself a little space if possible. We didn't bring our 6 and 9 year olds on this trip but will bring them next time for sure. There were plenty of kids there so as long as mom and dad carry extra for the little ones, they would have a great time! The trail to Cape Alava & Sand Point are mostly wood boardwalk but they could use some maintenance. Some of the boards are pretty thin, missing or loose so use some caution. All in all, I love this area and we had a great trip. We will definitely be back!