Backpackers at Third Beach

Notices
Description
Trail Conditions
Camping
Special Concerns
Safety
Map
Photos

Notices:

• Hard-sided food containers like bear canisters are required if camping at Third Beach or elsewhere on the coast.
• Pets, weapons, and wheeled devices are prohibited on coastal beaches and trails.
• Wilderness Camping Permits are required for overnight camping at Third Beach and elsewhere on the coast. Obtain permits at the Wilderness Information Center (WIC) in Port Angeles.

Ecosystem type: Coastal Forest and Ocean Beach 
Trail tread types: Well maintained 
General elevation trend: Flat
River crossings: None
Unique features: Ocean views, sea stacks (offshore land formations). There are excellent opportunities to view bald eagles and seals, and bird life is common on sea stacks. Whale migration occurs in March/April and October. 
Level of difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.4 mile
Elevation change: 240 feet elevation loss on the way in
Best Season: Year round 

Camping:

Permits/Reservations:Obtain permits by phone or in person at the WIC in Port Angeles or in person at Forks Recreation and Information Center. No reservations for South Coast.
Group Size Restrictions: Groups are limited to no more than 12 people. Associated groups of more than 12 must camp and travel at least 1 mile apart and may not combine at any time in a group of more than 12.
Food Storage Method: Hard-sided food containers are required.
Campsites: There are a few campsites off the beach in the forest but most camping is on the beach above high tide. During Summer, camping space can be scarce! 
Toilet Facilities: Pit toilet where trail meets beach
Water Source: Two streams - Most coastal water sources have a tea-stained appearance. The light tan color originates from tannin leached from leaves. Cryptosporidium and giardia exist in coastal streams and rivers; always filter or boil water. Iodine is an ineffective treatment versus these parasites. 
Stock: Prohibited on all park beaches and beach trails.

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 sand to prevent damage to vegetation.
Campfires: To protect coastal forests, please burn only driftwood.
Wildlife Precautions: Due to raccoon problems, all food garbage and scented items must be secured in hard-sided containers such as Bear canisters. To protect raccoons, bears and other wildlife, all food, garbage and scented items must be secured from all wildlife 24 hours a day.

Safety:

• Never try to round hazardous headlands at high tide. Always carry a tide chart and topographic map. Don't get trapped!
• Beach logs may not be stable. Use extreme caution when walking on logs.