Hole-in-the-Wall is a popular destination for day hikes on the Pacific Northwest Trail. Photo by Alex Maier.
Wilderness Coast Gallery
Pacific Northwest Trail – Section 10
Explore Section 10 | Section Maps |  Trail Conditions
A maritime climate and low elevation offer an extended season along the Wilderness Coast, one of the most popular sections of the Pacific Northwest Trail. Towering sea stacks, coastal forests, and countless tide pools—brimming with marine life—are iconic of this rugged coastline, which is visited by many, but traversed by only a hardy few.
Along this route, rugged beaches and rocky headlands create a unique coastal adventure. Some headlands become impassable, except at low tide in fair weather, while others may only be crossed using steep overland trails and rope ladders.
In this section, westbound thru-hikers get their first chance to dip their toes in the Pacific Ocean, camp on sandy beaches, and watch the sun set behind sea stacks and islands, which are teeming with seals, sea otters and other marine life.
Cape Alava is a popular destination for backpackers of all ages and abilities. Here, along the shores of the Pacific, hundreds of barking sea lions and laughing gulls celebrate each passing day with the jubilant soundtrack of animal life.
As the westernmost point in the continental United States, Cape Alava makes an ideal location for the western terminus of the Pacific Northwest Trail. Whether a crown-to-coast adventure is inspired by this setting—or comes to a triumphant end here—all visitors can take in the grandeur of the Northwest from the Park’s beachside campsites.
The rugged Olympic Coast is part of the “Graveyard of the Pacific,” home to hundreds of shipwrecks and sea-sculpted rocky shores. Photo by Ashley Hill.
The rugged Olympic Coast is part of the "Graveyard of the Pacific," home to hundreds of shipwrecks and sea-sculpted rocky shores. Photo by Ashley Hill.
Tsunami debris can be found all along the shores of the Pacific. Beach clean-ups help protect ocean life and keep the Pacific Coast wild. Photo by Jeff Kish.
Tsunami debris can be found all along the shores of the Pacific. Beach clean-ups help protect ocean life and keep the Pacific Coast wild. Photo by Jeff Kish.
