Cape Alava Trail
Table of contents
Cape Alava Trail is a wonderful hike with two distinct sections: a rainforest hike and a classic PNW beach walk. This hike is just over 9.7 km in length and moderate, but it’s more suitable for young kids and total beginners if you just do the forest section.
Note that this hike is on the Ozette Indian Reservation. The trail is subject to closure at the discretion of the Ozette community, so please check on its status before planning your trip.
Route Description for Cape Alava Trail
Cape Alava Trail is gorgeous, combining the best of the Pacific Northwest with a rainforest walk and the beach. This walk can be shortened for younger kids or beginners, or you can plan to camp at Camp Alava to make a weekend out of it.
Begin at Lake Ozette. Cross the Ozette River. A quarter-mile in, stay right at the junction. Walk along a boardwalk through a dense red cedar forest. You’ll gain very gentle elevation as you continue through the forest.
You’ll hike through an area known as Ahlstrom’s Prairie at 3.6 km. It’s a big meadow that was previously taken care of by Swedish immigrants who gardened and kept animals. These days, you wouldn’t be able to tell they were ever there.
At 5.3 km, you’ll emerge onto the beach. Look for the fascinating Tskawahyah Island, the unmistakable freestanding island with trees on top. When you’re ready, return the same way you came.
Getting to the Cape Alava Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for Cape Alava Trail is in Ozette on Hoko Ozette Road in a signed parking area.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
Cape Alava
When to do:
May-October
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
High
Route Type:
Out and back
Cape Alava Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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