What are the current parking conditions at the Third Beach trailhead?

Parking at the Third Beach trailhead is a significant issue, with capacity not matching the area's growing popularity as of [September 5](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-08.095827803514). Visitors may need to park at Second Beach overflow parking and walk back. It is unclear if parking at Second Beach is officially permitted for Third Beach access.

Have there been any recent trail maintenance or improvements noted?

Yes, crews have made notable improvements to sections of the trail where it goes inland, which were much appreciated by a visitor on [September 5](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-08.095827803514). The rope ladders and other features were also reported to be in great shape as of [July 1](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-06.121722568534).

Are there any reported wildlife or environmental concerns along the trail or beach?

Visitors have reported seeing dead marine life, including two whales at Toleak Point and a dead otter, as of [July 1](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-06.121722568534). There was also a large garbage pile noted at Scott Creek on the same date, which had damaged nearby trees.

What is the general trail condition and are there any obstacles like snow or bugs?

The trail is reported to be in good condition with no snow as of [September 5](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-08.095827803514). Visitors have also noted no bug issues in recent reports from [July 1](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-07-06.121722568534) through September 5. Access roads are suitable for all vehicles.

Third Beach

Olympic Peninsula

updated 2 weeks ago

Third Beach is experiencing significant parking challenges, as noted on September 5. Despite trail improvements, the parking lot capacity at the Third Beach trailhead has not kept pace with the increasing popularity of the area. Visitors may need to explore alternative parking, such as the overflow lot at Second Beach, and walk back to the trailhead. The trail itself is reported to be in good condition, with no snow or significant bug issues noted in recent reports from July 1 through September 5. However, there have been observations of dead marine life and a large garbage pile at Scott Creek, which visitors may find sobering.

Generated from 10 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Third Beach

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

Parking at the Third Beach trailhead is a significant issue, with capacity not matching the area's growing popularity as of September 5. Visitors may need to park at Second Beach overflow parking and walk back. It is unclear if parking at Second Beach is officially permitted for Third Beach access.