North Beach Park to Glass Beach

Parking is available at North Beach County Park. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on busy days, as parking can be limited. Please note, this trail is located near Port Townsend, Washington, and is distinct from Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California.

The most crucial aspect of hiking this trail is to plan your visit around low tide. There are no escape routes from the waves and cliffs during high tide, making it unsafe. Always consult a tide table before you go.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on this trail. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers and your pet, especially given the coastal environment and potential for slippery sections.

The North Beach Park to Glass Beach trail is located within Fort Worden Historical State Park. A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to Washington State Parks. You can purchase a day-use pass or an annual pass. Check the Washington State Parks website for current fee information.

The trail primarily consists of fairly hard-packed sand, making for relatively easy walking. However, some sections can be rocky and slippery, and you may need to navigate over small logs. Closer to the parking lot, especially at higher tides, the beach can be laden with large cobbles, rocks, and boulders. You'll also walk alongside dramatic bluff walls.

You'll enjoy sweeping ocean vistas of the Strait of San Juan de Fuca, with views of Protection Island, Port Angeles, and even Canada and the San Juan Islands on clear days. Keep an eye out for eagles circling overhead, abundant seabirds, and possibly river otters near the shoreline. Small tide pools are also visible, especially during low tide.

Glass Beach is unique because it was once a rubbish dump where residents of Fort Worden discarded garbage into the sea. Over time, the ocean has tumbled and polished these discarded glass fragments into smooth, colorful pieces found among the shoreline pebbles and rocks. While the glass bits are now very small and less abundant due to visitors collecting them, it remains a fascinating historical and ecological point of interest.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of other trails. You'll find yourself on parts of the Trail L-1, the Chinese Gardens Trail, and the North Beach Trail as you make your way from North Beach to Glass Beach.

Given its generally easy difficulty and interesting features like Glass Beach and tide pools, it can be suitable for families. However, always remember the critical need to hike at low tide for safety, and be mindful of rocky or slippery sections that might require extra caution for younger children.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time often depends on personal preference. Clearer days offer expansive views of the Strait and distant islands. Regardless of the season, the most important factor is to always plan your hike around low tide for safety.

This route is primarily an out-and-back hike. You will walk along the coastline from North Beach Park to Glass Beach and then return the same way. There isn't a distinct loop option for the entire journey.