Ericson's Bay Primitive Trail

Forest along the Ericson's Bay Primitive Trail

Description
Trail Conditions
Camping
Special Concerns
Safety
Map

Notices:

• For the most up to date information about how to obtain a Wilderness Permit, visit our Wilderness Reservations Page.
• All food, garbage, and scented items must be stored—overnight and when unattended—in park-approved Bear Canisters along the entire Olympic National Park Wilderness Coast.
• 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.
• Pets, use of weapons, and wheeled devices are prohibited on coastal beaches and trails.

 

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: Early reservations are recommended if you are planning on camping on the beaches between May 1 and September 30.
Campsites: None along this trail. Ericson's Bay Camp is 0.5 mile north from the eastern end of this trail, which is only accessible by boat. South Sand Point camp is located by turning south along the beach at the end of this trail.
Toilet Facilities: South Sand Point where the trail meets the beach; a toilet is also located at Ericson's Bay Camp. Bury human waste 6-8" deep and 200 feet 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 ineffective against cryptosporidium. Water treatment systems do not treat saltwater for consumption.
Stock: Prohibited. See Stock Use.

 

Special Concerns

Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles during your stay to protect vegetation and other wilderness resources. 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.

 

Safety

• Always carry the 10 Essentials: map, compass, flashlight, knife, matches, nylon cord, extra food and water, and rain gear 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 eyes.

 

Trail Conditions