Shi Shi Beach Trail

Why this trail

If you want classic Pacific coast drama—lush forest, a rope-aided bluff, and a long beach walk to a cathedral of sea stacks—Shi Shi delivers. It’s an 8-mile total out-and-back if you continue from the beach south to Point of the Arches, the trip’s undeniable showstopper.

The hike

The first ~2 miles cross the Makah Reservation through cool, mossy forest on a mix of boardwalks and muddy tread. Expect mud year-round—part of the charm here—then a steep ~160‑foot bluff descent to the sand, aided by a fixed rope that can be slick after rain. From the beach, head ~2 more miles south along wide, caramel-colored sand, driftwood, and occasional cobbles to reach Point of the Arches, where dozens of sea stacks and natural arches punctuate the surf.

What you’ll see

Point of the Arches is best at low tide, when tide pools brim with sea stars and anemones and you can safely weave among the stacks. Watch for birds drawn to freshwater at Petroleum Creek along the beach. Sunsets can be outrageous, and with minimal light pollution, stargazing is a real perk on clear nights.

Logistics and permits

Two permits matter: a Makah Recreation Permit (to cross reservation lands and park at the trailhead) and, if you’re camping on the beach, an Olympic National Park wilderness permit. Restrooms and trash are available at the trailhead. If you’re day-hiking, you can skip the wilderness permit, but you still need the Makah permit.

Tips and timing

• Tides rule the day. Sections near Point of the Arches become impassable at high tide—plan your out-and-back around a low tide window.
• Footwear: bring waterproof boots for the mud and something you’re happy to get sandy. Trekking poles help on the rope descent and on soft sand.
• Finding the forest trail on your return can be easy to miss; look for the round trail marker where the path leaves the beach.
• Water can be filtered at Petroleum Creek, but treat it.

Best time to hike

Summer brings crowds (and a busy beach if you’re camping). Late spring and early fall offer fewer people but variable weather. Any month can be rainy and windy—pack layers and rain gear. For photography, aim for a late-afternoon start that hits Point of the Arches at low tide near sunset, then hike back on firm sand as the tide turns.