Beauty Bay Recreation Area
Discover scenic trails and breathtaking sunsets at Beauty Bay Recreation Area, a gem for nature lovers and radio enthusiasts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spectacular sunset views
Beauty Bay Recreation Area
Best Time
Spectacular sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover scenic trails and breathtaking sunsets at Beauty Bay Recreation Area, a gem for nature lovers and radio enthusiasts.
"Moderate hike, spectacular views. Parking lot is small, so get there early."
Arrive Early for Parking
The parking lot is small; get there early, especially for sunset or Eagle Week. :car:
Stay on Marked Trails
Much of the area is private property, so stick to designated paths. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Trail
Main trail loop
Experience breathtaking sunsets over the mountains on this popular, moderate hike.
Eagle Week Programs
Forest Service tent near parking
Learn about local eagles with Forest Service experts and telescope viewing during the holiday season.
POTA Activation Site
Designated areas
A popular spot for radio amateurs to activate for Parks On The Air (POTA) events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Access
Best Views & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Parking
The parking lot is small; get there early, especially for sunset or Eagle Week. :car:
Stay on Marked Trails
Much of the area is private property, so stick to designated paths. :hiking_boot:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the scenic beauty with a picnic lunch or dinner.
Check for POTA Events
If you're a radio amateur, check for Parks On The Air (POTA) activations.
BC Rec Site Camping - West Harrison Lake
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Parking
The parking lot is small; get there early, especially for sunset or Eagle Week. :car:
Stay on Marked Trails
Much of the area is private property, so stick to designated paths. :hiking_boot:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the scenic beauty with a picnic lunch or dinner.
Check for POTA Events
If you're a radio amateur, check for Parks On The Air (POTA) activations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Beauty Bay Recreation Area for its beautiful views and enjoyable, albeit short, hiking trails, particularly the Sunset Trail. It's also a noted spot for amateur radio activations and a special destination during Eagle Week for wildlife observation. Some find the parking limited and emphasize the need to stay on marked paths due to private property.
"Beautiful views. Fun little hike. Very short trails. It's surrounded by private property so you can not venture far from the trails. But it's still fun."
Matthew Clouse
"Yet another of the BLM Management areas that is a POTA site (Parks On The Air) for radio amateurs to activate. It has like many others very limited parking, which is amongst the trees and difficult to get out."
Jeff Banke
"Great Sunset Trail. Highly suggest going here to watch the sun set over the mountains."
Brad Young
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Beauty Bay Recreation Area is accessible by car. Parking is limited, so it's advisable to arrive early, especially during popular times.
Information on public transportation options is limited. Driving is the most common way to access the area.
Specific driving directions will depend on your starting point. Use a GPS navigation app and search for 'Beauty Bay Recreation Area'.
Yes, there is a parking lot, but it is small and can fill up quickly. Arrive early to secure a spot.
The parking lot is located amongst trees, and it can be difficult to maneuver larger vehicles out.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding entrance fees is not readily available. It's recommended to check local park advisories or be prepared for potential fees.
Operating hours are not specified, but it's generally assumed to be open during daylight hours. Check local advisories for any specific closures.
Reservations are typically not required for general visits, but parking is first-come, first-served.
Yes, during Eagle Week (between Christmas and New Years), the Forest Service hosts educational programs and telescope viewing.
While some trails are described as moderate, specific accessibility information is not detailed. The new boardwalk at the William J. "Billy Joe" Rish Recreation Area is noted as accessible.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Sunset Trail is highly recommended for its spectacular views. Trails are generally short and well-defined.
While crown land camping is mentioned for Harrison Lake, specific camping facilities at Beauty Bay Recreation Area are not detailed.
During Eagle Week, eagles are a prominent attraction. Other local wildlife may be present.
Yes, the area offers beautiful views, especially during sunset, making it a great spot for photography.
While not explicitly detailed, picnic areas are implied by the suggestion to pack a picnic. Outhouses are mentioned for crown land camping on Harrison Lake.
📸 📸 Photography
The Sunset Trail offers stunning panoramic views, especially as the sun goes down.
Late afternoon and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography.
Regulations regarding drone usage in recreation areas can vary. It's best to check with local authorities before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
General photography for personal use is usually permitted, but commercial photography may require permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
📻 Amateur Radio Operators
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
While the trails themselves are brief, the visual rewards are significant. The area is also recognized as a Parks On The Air (POTA) site for radio amateurs, indicating it's a designated spot for amateur radio activations.
Seasonal Attractions & Wildlife
Beyond Eagle Week, the area's natural beauty makes it a pleasant destination year-round. The mention of a new accessible boardwalk at the William J. "Billy Joe" Rish Recreation Area suggests a commitment to making natural spaces more inclusive, though this specific boardwalk is in a different location.
Visitors can expect to enjoy the serene environment and potentially spot other local wildlife, especially during quieter times of the year. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit