The best walks and hikes in Seashore Conservation Area State Park

The Discovery Trail offers a delightful blend of coastal views, lush forests, and open landscapes, providing a scenic journey across the northern Olympic Peninsula. You'll experience a mix of paved paths and natural surfaces, winding past the Strait of Juan de Fuca and offering glimpses of the Olympic Mountains. This moderate 8.4-mile (13.5 km) hike, with its gentle 215 feet (65 metres) of elevation gain, is a great way to immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty, taking approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible for hikers, cyclists, and runners. Parking is available at numerous trailheads along its length, so it's wise to identify your specific starting point beforehand. While much of the route is flat, some sections feature moderate slopes, so wear comfortable footwear. Spring and fall often provide the most pleasant weather for exploring, though many parts are enjoyable year-round.

What makes the Discovery Trail truly stand out is its incredible diversity, connecting a wide array of ecosystems from historic towns to Pacific Ocean beaches. It's part of the larger Olympic Discovery Trail, which incorporates historic elements like restored railroad trestles and passes through significant sites such as the Elwha River Valley. This multi-use trail is a testament to community involvement, offering a unique blend of natural and cultural history.

The Long Beach Boardwalk and Discovery Trail Loop offers a refreshing coastal walk, blending the iconic boardwalk experience with natural beauty. This easy 1.0-mile (1.6 km) loop, with just 7 feet (2 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 23 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick outing. You'll enjoy expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, stroll through rolling dunes, and pass by fascinating art installations that tell the story of the Lewis and Clark expedition, including Gray Whale carvings and a statue of William Clark.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is largely accessible and well-maintained. Parking is generally easy to find near the boardwalk, and the route is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It's a fantastic option for families, and leashed dogs are welcome to join you on this scenic journey. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds, though it's a pleasant experience year-round.

What truly sets this trail apart is its blend of historical significance and diverse ecosystems. Following the route of the Corps of Discovery, it features numerous interpretive panels that enrich your understanding of the region's past. Beyond the history, you'll traverse ocean beaches, dunes, wetlands, and coastal forests, offering a unique opportunity for birdwatching and spotting wildlife like deer and elk. The Long Beach Boardwalk itself has even been recognized as one of the top 10 best boardwalks in the United States.

If you're after a truly relaxing coastal experience, the Westport Light Loop delivers with its gentle 4.9-mile (7.9 km) path. This easy hiking route, which takes about 1 hour and 58 minutes, offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean as it winds through coastal dunes and grasses. You'll enjoy a flat journey with only 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for nearly everyone.

To plan your visit, remember that the trail is within Westport Light State Park, so a Discover Pass is needed for parking. The route is well-maintained with both paved and gravel sections, and you'll find amenities like picnic areas and restrooms at the park. It's a great option year-round, and you might want to check tide tables as the scenery shifts with the Grays Harbor tides.

This trail is also known as the "Dunes Trail" and is a popular spot for families, birdwatchers, and those looking for an easy outing. You'll pass interpretive panels that share insights into the local ecosystem and maritime history, and you can even spot marine life like seals from the shore. Don't miss the Westport Viewing Tower for panoramic vistas.

The Copalis River Spit Trail offers a unique blend of river and ocean scenery, guiding you through low sand dunes and grassy areas to a secluded beach where the Copalis River meets the Pacific. You'll follow unpaved, uneven paths that can sometimes be overgrown, but the reward is a tranquil coastal experience with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for the distant Copalis Rock and the diverse birdlife in this protected refuge.

This easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hike, with only 11 feet (3 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 12 minutes to complete. The trail is family-friendly and dogs are welcome on a leash. You can choose a shorter 1.6-mile out-and-back to the beach or extend your journey up to 4 miles to the northern tip of the spit, making it adaptable to your schedule and energy levels.

Part of Griffiths-Priday State Park, the Copalis River Spit is a significant wildlife refuge, especially for migratory birds like bald eagles and western sandpipers. The area also holds historical significance, with the nearby "Ghost Forest" serving as a striking reminder of a massive earthquake and tsunami from 1700, though it's primarily accessible by kayak or canoe. It's a great spot for nature lovers and those interested in the unique geology of the Washington Coast.