Split Rock

Embark on a challenging coastal hike along the Hole in the Wall Trail, a difficult 3.5-mile (5.6 km) route that takes you along Rialto Beach. You will gain 108 feet (33 metres) in elevation, typically completing the journey in about 1 hour and 27 minutes. As you hike, you will experience the rugged beauty of the Olympic Coast, navigating sand, pebbles, and significant driftwood, with dramatic sea stacks like James and Little James islands visible offshore.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to the tides, as sections of the trail can become impassable or dangerous during high tide. It is crucial to time your hike with low tide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Be prepared to cross Ellen Creek, which may involve getting your feet wet depending on the conditions on the day.

The highlight of this route is the natural arch known as the "Hole-in-the-Wall" itself, a unique rock formation carved by the ocean. At low tide, this area reveals extensive tide pools, teeming with marine life such as starfish and urchins. This natural wonder makes the trail a distinctive experience within Olympic National Park.

Embark on a difficult coastal hike along the rugged shoreline of Rialto Beach on the Hole in the Wall Trail. This route stretches for 1.8 miles (2.9 km) and involves a modest elevation gain of 28 feet (9 metres), typically taking about 44 minutes to complete. As you walk, you will encounter a landscape dotted with large pieces of driftwood, small islands, and dramatic sea stacks. The main attraction is the natural arch known as the Hole-in-the-Wall, a unique rock formation carved by the ocean. Beyond this arch, you can discover vibrant tide pools teeming with marine life, making for a truly immersive experience by the Pacific.

Before you set out on this coastal adventure, it is crucial to plan your visit around the tides. The Hole in the Wall Trail becomes impassable during high tide, so you must consult tide schedules in advance. Aim to begin your hike approximately 90 minutes before low tide to ensure safe passage through the natural arch and back. We recommend wearing good hiking shoes for the varied terrain, and water shoes can be very helpful for navigating the wet and potentially slippery rocks near the Hole-in-the-Wall itself.

This trail offers a distinctive opportunity to explore the dynamic intertidal zone of Olympic National Park. The natural arch, the Hole-in-the-Wall, is a geological marvel shaped by centuries of ocean waves. Beyond its striking appearance, the area is renowned for its rich tide pools, which are home to a diverse array of marine organisms. This makes the route not just a physical challenge but also a chance to observe coastal ecosystems up close, highlighting the unique natural heritage of the region.

The Olympic Coast North trail offers an unparalleled immersion into a raw, untamed coastal wilderness. This challenging 20.4-mile (32.9 km) hiking route, with 698 feet (213 metres) of elevation gain, is less a trail and more a dynamic journey along the rugged Pacific edge. Expect to navigate diverse terrain, from soft sand and pebbles to steep, rope-assisted overland sections around impassable headlands, all while soaking in dramatic ocean views and spotting abundant marine wildlife.

Successfully tackling this difficult route, which typically takes around 8 hours and 34 minutes, hinges on meticulous planning. You'll need to time your hike precisely with low tides to round rocky headlands and cross rivers like the Ozette. Permits and bear canisters are mandatory for overnight stays, and be prepared for the Olympic Coast's often foggy and chilly weather, even in summer. Always check current conditions and tide charts before setting out.

What makes this one of the most notable trails in the region is its profound sense of isolation and adventure, combined with rich natural and cultural history. You'll encounter ancient Sitka spruces, explore vibrant tidal pools, and pass significant sites like the Wedding Rocks Petroglyphs, offering a glimpse into the area's past. This trail is a demanding, yet incredibly rewarding, experience for those seeking a true wilderness challenge.