
Point of Arches
OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK, WA :: Kristie and I enjoyed a weekend backpacking with our friends to Shi Shi Beach and Point of Arches. Getting there requires a long, winding drive to Neah Bay, some effort to haul camping gear over 4.5 miles, and a slog through a messy maze of mud. Most would agree it’s all well worth it.
Shi Shi Beach is a scenic stretch of cool, grey sand, bordered by lush, green forest to the east and the seemingly infinite ocean to the west, where the constant rhythm of frothy waves crashing against picturesque sea stacks is accompanied by crying seagulls and chattering eagles. We journey to Point of Arches to be reminded of the majestic beauty of nature; to allow our eyes to relax on distant vistas; to breathe the fresh, salty air; to enjoy the good company of life-long friends; … and to build towering bonfires on the beach!
Also check out Jayson’s website and Jacob’s website for more great photos.
Shi Shi Beach is a scenic stretch of cool, grey sand, bordered by lush, green forest to the east and the seemingly infinite ocean to the west, where the constant rhythm of frothy waves crashing against picturesque sea stacks is accompanied by crying seagulls and chattering eagles. We journey to Point of Arches to be reminded of the majestic beauty of nature; to allow our eyes to relax on distant vistas; to breathe the fresh, salty air; to enjoy the good company of life-long friends; … and to build towering bonfires on the beach!
Also check out Jayson’s website and Jacob’s website for more great photos.
















Terrific shots. You are amazing with that wide angle. I love how those clouds are encroaching on the arches. It was a fun time. Wish would could have had one more night. We definitely need to do more backpacking trips. There is always New Zealand? 🙂
Agree with what Jayson had to say. Imagine, our three cameras clicking away on the Routeburn!
Hey –
I’ve posted to your site a couple of time b4 – Awesome pictures. I was wondering if you had been up 3 fingers this year?
Zac
You know I’d love to go to New Zealand with you guys, and it’s especially tempting when I have the airmiles to go there for free, but the timing isn’t right… I look forward to your trip reports and photos.
Zac, I haven’t had a chance to go up to Three Fingers yet. So many hikes, so little time. When I do go up there again, I plan to camp at Goat Flats. It’s too long and too beautiful up there to rush through in one day.
Based on a September 2nd trip report on WTA.org, it looks like now is the prime time to go.
John
Fantastic photos, that’s a place I will have to visit sometime. Thanks for sharing.