Reconsidering sticking to a strict plan on coastal hikes

I used to map out every campsite and mile for my Olympic Coast trips. A few years back, high tides messed up my schedule and I had to stop early. That night I saw a quiet cove and starfish I would have rushed past. Now I build in extra time for surprises on those routes.

3 comments

3 Comments

the_david1mo ago

Tide tables? Overkill for a walk on the beach.

young.mia1mo ago

How do you handle the tide changes? I got stuck once too, now I just carry the tide table and aim for the wide beach sections so the schedule can flex.

margaret_kelly551mo ago

Smart move carrying a tide table, Mia. Got caught myself years ago scrambling over slippery rocks as the water came in. A little planning saves a lot of panic.