Coastal Backpacking Field Trip - Olympic Coast South: The Wildcatter Coast

We need to meet at the Oil City TH in time to be ready to hike at 10:45. The trip begins at the trail head.

For those dropping cars off at 3rd beach TH, they should allow at least an hour to drive from 3rd beach TH to Oil City TH, plus time to get ready at Oil City. This implies that we need to drop cars off at third beach trail head to set up our return shuttle probably about 9:15am. 

Note: Not everyone needs to  meet at 3rd Beach TH. We will need enough shuttle drivers to get those who meet at 3rd Beach to Oil City. And at the end of the trip, we need shuttle drivers to get people back to their cars at Oil City. 

Field trip for the Coastal Backpacking Course.

In general we will hike south to north. Each day is around 6 miles, give or take a bit.

The start time allows sufficient time to round Diamond Rock before the tide comes in,  and still experience the 2' tidal restriction at Diamond Rock. If large swells are in the forecast we may need to move the start time up. This will be communicated via email.

On day 1 we will camp at Mosquito Creek. This day will include a rope assisted accent of  the Hoh Head area. Consider bringing cheap leather gloves. Day 1 accumulative ascent: 885'.

Note that the elevation plots above and below were captured with a barometric pressure altimeter, and not necessarily calibrated each morning. You will notice the change in barometric pressure each day.

On day 2 we will camp at Toleak Point. In the morning we may consider exploring south along the coast before breaking camp. This day will  include fording Mosquito creek, Goodman Creek, and Falls creek. Consider bringing fording shoes. Day 2 accumulative ascent:  413'.

On day 3 we will exit our trip via the La Push 3rd Beach trailhead. This day will include a rope assisted ascent and decent, as well as some more tidal restricted areas. Day 3 accumulative ascent:  850'.

There will be several stops to discuss various Coastal Backpacking topics.

There will also be photography stops.

Please remember your rain gear and pack cover. It is possible that you may have the opportunity to experience marine air :)