Hole in the Wall hike
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Hole in the Wall hike
Difficulty Rating:
This is a jaw-dropping hike from the raw edge of the Pacific Ocean to a collection of massive boulders jutting out of the water. Be sure to go at low tide to more closely enjoy the impressive rock formations at the end of the beach.
Getting there
From Forks go north on US-101 for 1.5mi. Turn left onto Washington 110 West/La Push Rd. Follow for 7.8mi. Turn right onto Mora Rd, with signs for Rialto Beach. In 5.0mi you’ll reach the parking for Rialto Beach.
About
| When to do | Year round |
| Backcountry Campsites | Yes, on the beach but permits are required. |
| Toilets | Yes, at trailhead. |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | None |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Hole in the Wall
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Hole in the Wall
Head down to the rocky beach from the parking area and start heading to the right (north). Immediately looking south you will see a small collection of islands just off from the Quillayute River estuary.
If you came in times of especially low tide you can hike in the sand, otherwise you will be forced to walk through small pebbles. This makes the going slow and tough. Even though the beach is flat, the loose rocks make each step slower, but you’re not in a rush!
You will be captivated by the raw power of the ocean as you continue along the beach with waves crashing on the beach. Looking out across the water your eyes will be met with nothing but the thin line of the horizon. Coming from the dense mountain hikes in the east part of the park, this view is devoid of obstruction and is almost a welcome sight.
Finally to the north end of the beach you will pass by several impressive rock formations and finally reach a large ridge. Here you will see the namesake hole in the ridge. We highly recommend taking the very steep trail that climbs through the forest to get to the top of the ridge. From this ridge you get some stunning panoramic views down the beach.
After enjoying the power of the water return the way you came.
Check out more amazing hikes in the Olympic National Park, like the Hoh River Trail, Ozette Triangle or the Obstruction Point hike.
Insider Hints
Fisherman frequent this beach, and - from what we’ve seen - they are typically quite lucky.
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Sally S. Norbert 4 years ago
Beautiful! An amazing sight. You must do this at least once in your life.
Lambert O 4 years ago
This hike is beautiful. A surely pretty piece of nature to visit.
Suzy TQ 4 years ago
It was an awesome 9km hike from Coffee Bay to the hole in the wall. I can't put into words how amazing the views are but you have to make an effort and check it out for yourself.
Tara Green 4 years ago
I am so glad we went there, it was my friend's recommendation and totally beautiful beach
Allon FT 5 years ago
We were impressed with the rock formations! Glad it was low tide when we did the hike. The sandy trail was hot but feels great!
Felipe III 5 years ago
Awesome hike. Got to catch a glimpse of the dramatic sunset. It was simply breathtaking.
Seymor H. 5 years ago
Splendid area that requires very little effort. This is the kind of place you'd like to visit again and again.
El Papi S. 5 years ago
Nice view of the nearby islands. It was a fun and exciting hike to do.
amsterdan 5 years ago
Great hike with nice rock formations. Walking barefoot at the beach was awesome.
Rain k. 5 years ago
Trail was consistently flat throughout the hike. Great trail for kids and elderly.