McMicken Island

McMicken Island in Case Inlet can be reached without a bridge or ferry. During low tide, a sandbar appears, connecting the island to the mainland. You can hike the island's half-mile trail, picnic in a small meadow, and explore its rocky intertidal zone. But watch out for rising tides to avoid getting stuck.

Start your hike from Harstine Island State Park by heading east from the parking lot. Follow the trail along a 100-foot tall forested cliff towards Case Inlet. Descend into a shady ravine filled with large cedar and fir trees, and then take a left at the junction to continue through a line of big cedars. Descend further into the ravine using steps and arrive at a quiet beach after crossing a creek. From the beach, you can see Herron Island and the Key Peninsula to the east, and McMicken Island with Mount Rainier in the backdrop to the south.

During high tide, you may need to wait to walk on the beach due to overhanging trees blocking the way, but during low tide, you can enjoy a vast beach with different terrains like sand, mud, and cobbles. Keep an eye out for various bird species like eagles, herons, and seabirds along the way as the hike takes you through public tidelands. Note the private property between state park areas along the shoreline and respect any posted signs.

After crossing a sandy strip to reach McMicken Island, you'll find most of the island as state park land except for a small private parcel with cabins. Explore the western end with a picnic area and continue to the eastern side to find a nature trail passing through towering firs and madronas. Enjoy bluff-top views before heading back. If time allows, check out the rocky tide flats around the island but stay alert for high tide to avoid getting stranded.

HIGHLIGHTS

Beach walk to small island; great birdwatching
Distance: 4.0 mi round-trip; Elevation Gain: 150 ft
Difficulty: Easy; Permits: Discover Pass
Season: Year-round
Notes: Hike during low tides. Check tide tables.
Kid & Dog Friendly: Yes; Amenities: Privies, picnic tables
GPS Waypoint: N47 15.737 W122 52.236
Contact/Map: Washington State Parks
Trailhead Directions: From Shelton, SR 3 east 7.8 mi. Right on Pickering Rd for 3.3 mi. Bear left on Harstine Bridge Rd to T-junction. Left on N Island Dr for 3.0 mi. Right at community hall onto E Harstine Island Rd. Left on Yates Rd for 0.9 mi. Right into Harstine Island State Park for trailhead parking in 0.2 mi.