What is the condition of the boardwalks along the trail?

The boardwalks are in various stages of service life. Some sections are in need of repair, and hikers are advised to proceed with caution, one person at a time, and watch for loose boards. [August 11](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-14.102115555508), [July 17](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-28.094821842894)

What are the typical tide restrictions for coastal travel?

Certain headlands require low tide for passage. One report mentions crossing Yellowbanks only when the tide is 5' or less, and another headland when the tide is 6' or less. Hikers are strongly advised to carry tide charts and not attempt to round headlands when the tide is high.

Have there been recent bear sightings?

Yes, bear sightings are relatively frequent. A mother bear and cub were seen near Sand Point on [June 29](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-05.162414530934). Two bears were observed foraging on the beach north of Wedding Rocks on [August 7](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-10.145835763981), and another bear was seen near Sand Point on July 17. Bear spray and canisters are recommended.,,,

What is the parking situation at the trailhead?

The parking lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. It was reported as completely full by 1 PM on a Friday in early August. [August 7](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-25.163901179924), [August 7](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-10.145835763981)

Sand Point

Olympic Peninsula

updated 2 weeks ago

The trail to Sand Point is generally in good condition, with much of the initial three miles featuring boardwalks through coastal forests. August 11 describes these boardwalks as being in various stages of service life, and July 17 advises caution due to some sections needing repair. Hikers should be aware that access to certain areas, particularly around headlands, is heavily dependent on tide levels, with specific recommendations to cross only when the tide is 5' or less or 6' or less. Bear sightings have been reported by multiple visitors, including a mother and cub near Sand Point on June 29 and two bears seen on the beach north of Wedding Rocks on August 7. Water sources are generally available and described as drinkable if treated. Parking can be an issue, with the lot at the trailhead being full by early afternoon on August 7 and August 7.

Generated from 14 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Sand Point

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 2 weeks ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

The boardwalks are in various stages of service life. Some sections are in need of repair, and hikers are advised to proceed with caution, one person at a time, and watch for loose boards. August 11, July 17