Forest along the Ericson's Bay Primitive Trail

Description
Trail Conditions
Camping
Special Concerns
Safety
Map

Notices

• This trail is not maintained. The old boardwalks can be hazardous and slippery.
• Trail cannot be accessed from the Ericson's Bay Camp. It can only be accessed by boat from the east side of Ericson's Bay. 
• Obtain your Wilderness Camping Permit at the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles, year round.

Description

Ecosystem type: Coastal forest
Trail tread types: Primitive
General elevation trend: Flat  
Unique features: Ancient forest, Beach access
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.0 miles
Elevation change: None
Best Season: All seasons

Camping

Permits/Reservations: Obtain permits at the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles. No reservations necessary.
Food Storage Method: On the coast, all food, garbage, and scented items must be stored in hard-sided food containers such as bear canisters. Bear canisters may be borrowed at no charge from the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles. Hanging food is not proper food storage in this area. Animals will destroy hanging food bags, tents, coolers, backpacks, and other containers to steal food and other scented items.
Campsites: none along this trail. Ericson's Bay Camp is .5 mile north from the eastern end of this trail which is only accessible by boat.
Toilet Facilities:  none along trail. A toilet is located at Ericson's Bay Camp; bury waste 6-8" 200 ft from water sources and campsites. Please pack out toilet paper.
Water Source: Nearby streams. Cryptosporidium and giardia exist in coastal lakes, streams and rivers; always filter or boil water. Iodine is an ineffective treatment versus these parasites. Water treatment systems do not treat saltwater for consumption.
Stock: Prohibited. See Stock Use.

Special Concerns

Leave No Trace:  Leave No Trace of your stay to protect vegetation and prevent further camping regulations. Camp in established sites or on bare ground.
Campfires: To protect sensitive vegetation, campfires are not allowed above 3,500 feet. Leave no trace of your fire ring. Burn dead and down wood only.
Respect Wildlife: To protect bears and other wildlife, all food, garbage and scented items must be secured from all wildlife 24 hours a day. Bear canisters are recommended in this area.

Safety

• Always carry the 10 Essentials: map, compass, flashlight, knife, matches, nylon cord, extra food and water, and raingear with warm clothes. 
• Map & compass navigation skills may be necessary in places along this trail. Snow may cover higher reaches of this trail in any season, so know how to navigate without a trail for guidance.
• Let someone know where and when you are taking your hike. Make emergency plans for them to follow if you do not return.
• Watch the weather before and during your hike. Storms move quickly. Whiteouts are sudden. Read the weather forecasts, but remember to read the weather in front of your face.