Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront
Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront
3.0
(2)
81
hikers
Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront
01:48
7.14km
10m
Hiking
The Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront offers a wonderfully accessible and scenic hike, perfect for a relaxed day out. This easy route follows the city's waterfront, providing continuous, stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Port Angeles Harbor. You will walk on a predominantly paved and flat path, making it suitable for all ages and abilities, and on clear days, you can even see the Olympic Mountains and Canada across the water. Keep an eye out for marine wildlife like seals and otters, especially around spots like Pebble Beach Park.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is conveniently located with ample parking and easy access to downtown Port Angeles. You can find amenities like restrooms, benches, and dog waste bag dispensers along the way, making it a comfortable experience for everyone. Since it is an easy 4.4-mile (7.1 km) hike with only 41 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hours and 48 minutes, you can easily fit it into your day and explore the local shops and cafes afterward.
This section is a highlight of the much larger 130-mile Olympic Discovery Trail, known for blending urban charm with natural beauty. It is particularly noted for its excellent marine life observation opportunities, setting it apart as one of the best waterfront trails in the region. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly outing or a gentle stroll with your dog, this trail provides a high-reward experience with minimal effort.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Get Directions
158 m
Port Angeles
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
504 m
Pebble Beach Park
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
2.08 km
Port Angeles
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
3.63 km
Cormorant Viewing Area
Highlight • Viewpoint
6.60 km
Harborview Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
7.14 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.71 km
2.35 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
3.38 km
2.11 km
1.42 km
174 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 10 July
17°C
11°C
20 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the terrain like on the Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront?
This section of the Olympic Discovery Trail is largely paved and flat, making it an easy and accessible hike. It runs along the beach adjacent to the Strait of Juan de Fuca, offering a smooth and level surface for most users.
What can I see along the route?
The trail offers beautiful scenery, including expansive views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains. You'll pass through Port Angeles, and can enjoy spots like Pebble Beach Park, the Cormorant Viewing Area, and Harborview Park.
Where can I park to access the trail?
There is ample parking available in downtown Port Angeles, particularly near the City Pier at the foot of Lincoln Street, which is a popular starting point for this section of the trail. The trail's accessibility is a notable feature, with convenient parking options.
Is the Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront dog-friendly?
Yes, the Olympic Discovery Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash and to clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.
What is the best time of year to visit this trail?
The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit is typically during the spring, summer, and early fall months when the weather is milder and drier. These seasons offer the clearest views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to use the trail?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront section. It is freely accessible to the public.
How long does it take to hike this section of the trail?
The komoot tour for this section suggests a duration of approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes for hiking the 7.1-kilometer (4.4-mile) route. This can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
Is the trail suitable for families with children or those with strollers?
Yes, due to its paved and flat terrain, this section of the Olympic Discovery Trail is very suitable for families with children and is easily navigable with strollers or wheelchairs. It's considered an easy and accessible route for a wide range of users.
Are there restrooms or facilities along the trail?
Yes, the Port Angeles Waterfront section is notable for its accessibility, with restrooms available near the downtown area and the City Pier. Its proximity to downtown Port Angeles also means easy access to shops and restaurants.
Does this trail connect to other parts of the Olympic Discovery Trail?
Yes, this section is a popular part of the larger Olympic Discovery Trail, which is an ambitious project spanning nearly 130 miles across the northern Olympic Peninsula. From the City Pier, you can continue east or west to explore other segments of the ODT.
Is the trail a loop or an out-and-back route?
The Olympic Discovery Trail: Port Angeles Waterfront section is primarily an out-and-back route. While it's part of a much longer linear trail, this specific segment along the waterfront is typically explored by walking or cycling to a certain point and then returning the same way.
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