What are the current conditions of the muddy sections on the trail to Shi Shi beach?

The muddy sections on the trail to Shi Shi beach are described as a mess, being deep and wide in multiple spots as of [August 27](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-31.170542995377). One report from [July 3](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-06.195147901992) noted very muddy areas due to rain, suggesting side trails were often less muddy.

What kind of obstacles can be expected on the overland sections of the North Coast Route?

The overland sections involve ropes and steep ascents/descents. As of [August 27](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-31.170542995377), the trail was brushy with several log obstacles, some requiring stepping over, straddling, or ducking under. There were also a few roots obscured by brush.

Are there any specific challenges or conditions regarding water crossings?

One report from [August 5](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-08.124930058814) detailed fording the Ozette River at mid-tide, with water reaching the rib cage and requiring walking through water, climbing rocks, and stepping through seaweed. Another report from August 5 also mentioned a beached gray whale 0.5 miles south of Ozette River.

What is the parking situation and cost at the Shi Shi trailhead?

As of [August 27](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-31.170542995377), the Shi Shi trailhead had many cars, but plenty of room was available in the overnight parking area. The payment bin for overnight parking was noted to be halfway around the left side of the house and was more expensive than anticipated, costing $20/night per vehicle.

North Coast Route

Olympic Peninsula

updated 4 weeks ago

The North Coast Route is generally clear of snow, with reports from July 3 and August 27 indicating no snow presence. The road access is suitable for all vehicles according to multiple reports from July 3, August 5, and August 27. However, trail conditions vary. Some sections are well-maintained, including boardwalks, but significant muddy areas exist, particularly on the trail to Shi Shi beach, as noted on August 27 and July 3. Obstacles such as downed trees are present, with one report from August 27 mentioning a large log requiring navigation. Overland sections feature ropes and steep ascents/descents, with one report from August 27 detailing brushy trails and several log obstacles. Bugs were not a significant issue, with reports from August 5 and August 27 stating bugs were not bad or absent. Parking at trailheads like Ozette and Shi Shi can be busy, with August 5 noting limited spots on a Wednesday afternoon and August 27 mentioning many cars but plenty of room at Shi Shi.

Generated from 12 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about North Coast Route

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 4 weeks ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

No trip reports on this trail in 4 weeks, so everything below is at least that old.

The muddy sections on the trail to Shi Shi beach are described as a mess, being deep and wide in multiple spots as of August 27. One report from July 3 noted very muddy areas due to rain, suggesting side trails were often less muddy.