Toleak Point

This out-and-back hike in Olympic National Park provides backpackers amazing views of the Pacific Ocean, sea stacks, and an abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities. This hike can be completed in two days with camping at Toleak Point. If you'll be getting a late start, consider a second night at the easily accessible Third Beach. These campsites do not require advanced reservations, and there is no maximum occupancy. During summer weekends, these popular beach campgrounds can become crowded. Backcountry permits must be picked up before starting at any ranger station. Remember to pick up a tide chart before setting out because high tide south of Taylor point can restrict travel for hours.

Parking is available along a roadside lot. A sign reminds users to hide valuables because it is considered a high crime area. The parking area provides vault toilets but no running water. From the parking lot the trail drops over 1.3 miles through a dense hemlock and spruce forest covered in mosses and ferns to Third Beach. From Third Beach the trail travels south and becomes obstructed by Taylor Point, which is not navigable at any tide level. The south end of Third Beach is highlighted by numerous sea stacks and a gorgeous waterfall. Inland, an orange sign and rope signal the start of the 1.75-mile headland trail around Taylor Point. The climb off the beach requires a steep climb using ropes and wooden ladders. The headland trail travels through a dense forest and can be very muddy in places.

The headland trail drops back to the beach on the south side of Taylor Point and travels around a long sweeping cove. At mile 3.4 the trail heads inland again to bypass Scotts Bluff. The trail off the beach is rope-assisted and quite steep. Again, this section is not navigable at any tide level. The inland trail back to the beach is more gentle and returns to the beach and Scott Creek Camp at mile 3.7. From here the trail follows the wide beach around Strawberry Cove to Strawberry Point.  Numerous tide pools along the beach make for hours of entertainment. Just past Strawberry Point hikers reach Toleak Point at mile 6.4.  

A pit toilet is availble on the north end of the camping area. Remember your own toilet paper.  Excellent campsites exist on both the north and south sides of the point. Choose the north side for the best sunset views. The south side of the point provides access to a creek for fresh water. Once at camp, spend the day watching for seals, otter, and bald eagles. Deer, coyote, and racoons also frequent the area. For this reason, park approved bear containers are required for this hike.  Campfires are allowed at both Third Beach and Toleak Point. The next day, return following the same route.