Tahkenitch Creek Trail has loops of 1.5, 2.5 miles, and 5.0 miles (Beach Access Trail). Signs at the loop junctions help you determine your location. The Beach Access Trail, rated More Difficult, is 2.0 miles one way to the intersection with the Tahkenitch Dunes Trail. Turn west for 0.5 mile to the beach. Hikes alternate between coastal forest and open sand. Flowering in spring and early summer, yellow sand verbena grows in the open sand along the trail.
This is a popular trail system because of its remoteness, scenery and wildlife. The trail system traverses a variety of habitats including open sand, coastal forests, marshes, deflation plains, and meadows. Cross the
bridge over tranquil Tahkenitch Creek. Look along the creek bank for
evidence of wildlife - tracks of newts, black bear, raccoon, otter, mink,
and deer are common. Near the creek mouth, many types of shorebirds
congregate.