Length
Elevation Gain
Highest Point
The Weather Beach Trail is accessed via a 0.5-mile segment of the Dune Forest Trail and then the 1-mile, one-way Weather Beach Trail begins.
Before starting a hike, please note:
- The parking lot is shared by the Refuge and the State Park — a Discover Pass is required.
- An information kiosk offers information on the trails as well as the species that make Leadbetter Point home.
- Leashed dogs are permitted in Leadbetter State Park but not within Willapa NWR. That means dogs are welcomed on Dune Forest Trail and the Martha Jordan Birding Trail, but no others.
- Mosquitos are fierce in this area — bug spray is highly recommended.
- Trails often flood from October through May. Be prepared for wading or turn around.
To reach Weather Beach via the Dune Forest Trail, begin from a trailhead in the Northwest corner of the parking lot. After several strides, bear left to continue on the Dune Forest Trail. Walk slightly downhill on a sandy route for half a mile. The fauna here is largely scrubby pines and bushes. At 0.5 mile, turn right and begin the Weather Beach Trail.
Traverse the Long Beach Peninsula with the Pacific Ocean as the true treasure of the walk through the coastal forest. Along the way, walk through a couple of really nice tree tunnels, great picture opportunities. Also walk through some quite low-lying areas that are prone to flooding. Be cautious here as water may be unsafe to wade through and turn around if prudent. Flooding is most common October through May but might also be a hazard in other months. As the trail begins to emerge from the forest, the dunes begin. Here, the route is flanked with seasonal wetlands in the dunes—and the occasional deer.
Continue through the dunes to the beach. Note: The last stretch on Weather Beach Trail to the ocean is through protected nesting areas for the Western snowy plover. The pathway is clearly marked with signs. Please be respectful and stay out of these areas when closed to the public.
Once at the beach, wander here or park it on the sand and soak up the view. Look for razor clams, sand dollars, and all sorts of birds. In the spring and fall, the shorebird population explodes with migratory birds, a real treat for all birders.
Returning the same route on Weather Beach? Note that the out-and-back is 3 miles, total: 0.5 mile on Dune Forest and then 1 mile out and another mile back on Weather Beach, plus the 0.5 mile back to the parking lot.
Extend your hike
Looking for a longer hike or to see more of Leadbetter Point? At the ocean, continue North on the Beach Trail and then Bearberry to return to the parking lot, for a 3.8 mile loop.
WTA Pro Tip: Apply bug spray before arriving at Leadbetter Point.
Trailhead
