Beach Backpacking in Olympic National Park
Hiking Third Beach to Hoh River in Washington State
Oct 8, 2009
Third Beach to Hoh River is a classic overnight backpacking trip along the southern coast of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State.
Third Beach To Hoh River: One Way Hike
The journey is not a loop and requires a mode of transport at each end of the trip. As of October 2009, the public shuttle between each trail head is no longer running. Best to park a car at each end and hike either north to south or vice versa, depending on which direction the ocean tides are most favorable for.
The trip can certainly be completed in 3 days and 2 nights, however, experienced hikers will have no problem doing it overnight.
Preparation: Equipment, Tides, Maps
It is extremely important to know the tide schedule before setting out on the Third Beach to Hoh River hike. There are several parts of the trail that cannot be passed at high tide. A detailed topo map is also required so the distance to be covered is known before attempting a pass that can only be crossed at low tide. Jefferson Cove, for example, can only be passed with a 2 to 3 foot tide.
An overnight camping permit is also required for this trip. A permit can be purchased for $15 at any Olympic National Park ranger station or hikers can self-register at the Third Beach and Hoh River trailheads. Reservations are not necessary for this trip.
Terrain and Difficulty
Parts of the Third Beach to Hoh River hike are easy-going (mostly the times along the beach), however, hikers will face several different types of challenges when the trail veers away from the sandy oceanfront. This trip has several rope ladders over steep cliffs that are somewhat difficult to ascend/descend, especially with an overnight backpack.
Hikers will also need to ford 3-4 creeks (number depending on when high tide is). Each creek is at least ankle deep and some are knee to mid-thigh high. Be prepared to get wet! These creeks also make off-season hiking nearly impossible.
The forest trails are also very muddy, even in the dryest of weather. Hikers will come across cedar foot bridges, cliff sides and rocky passes also. These obstacles make this hike moderate to strenuous in difficulty.
For more information, read Olympic National Park: Third Beach to Hoh River.
What to Watch Out For
The main concern of any hiker attempting this trip is the tide schedule. Ideally, it's best to schedule a trip when the low tide is during midday. Next, all hikers should bring either a bear canister or a rope to tie up food at night. Keep at eye out for black and red trailhead signs, as these point to the next leg of the journey and can sometimes be missed. Bring extra clothes, as hikers will get wet crossing the creeks.
For the fearless, this hike is truly rewarding. Whales, sea otters, seals, bald eagles and elk along with picturesque beach scenes are all visible on this classic Olympic hike.
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