Second Beach, located within Olympic National Park near La Push, Washington, is one of the most scenic and beloved beaches in the area. Known for its dramatic sea stacks, pristine shoreline, and rich coastal ecosystems, it offers a remarkable escape into nature.
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| Second Beach Olympic National Park |
🥾 Trail Overview
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Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km) one way
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Difficulty: Easy to moderate
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Elevation Gain: 80 feet (24 meters) descent to the beach
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Hiking Time: 30-45 minutes (round trip)
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Trail Type: Out-and-back
The trailhead begins off La Push Road, leading you through a lush forest before a steep descent to the beach, where you'll encounter large driftwood logs, rocky formations, and expansive views of the Pacific Ocean.
🌊 What to Expect
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Sea Stacks: Iconic and towering, these jagged rocks rise dramatically from the sea, making for an impressive sight and photograph opportunity.
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Tide Pools: Best explored during low tide, you can find an abundance of sea life like anemones, starfish, crabs, and mussels.
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Wildlife: You might spot bald eagles, seals, or migrating whales. This area is a hotspot for birdwatching, especially during the migration seasons.
🌅 Best Time to Visit
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Season: Late spring through early fall for the best trail conditions and weather.
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Tide Timing: Plan your visit around low tide to explore the tide pools and sea stacks more safely and thoroughly.
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Photography: Sunset is a magical time to visit for capturing the iconic sea stacks against a colorful sky.
🌲 Camping
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Wilderness Camping: You can camp at Second Beach, but a wilderness permit is required. These are available through Recreation.gov and can be reserved in advance. The beach is a popular camping spot, especially in summer months, so booking ahead is recommended.
🚗 Getting There
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The trailhead is about 14 miles west of US 101, on La Push Road, within the Quileute Indian Reservation. It’s a relatively easy drive, but the trail itself involves some steep terrain, so be prepared for a challenging descent.
Second Beach is a perfect destination for hiking, photography, or simply relaxing by the ocean with spectacular views. Whether you're exploring its tide pools or just soaking in the natural beauty, this beach is a peaceful haven worth the journey.