Cape Disappointment’s name is a bit misleading — the truth is, there’s nothing disappointing about it. Located in the extreme southwestern corner of the state, it was named by a British fur trader who narrowly missed discovering the Columbia River. It also happens to have some amazing nature walks, including a loop that takes you past two beautiful lighthouses.
The North Head Light was constructed in 1897.
Mary Barwick / alltrails.com It was built after mariners complained that the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse was obscured by approaching ships.
The Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, on the other hand, dates all the way back to 1856.
Nick Comparone / alltrails.com The lighthouse initially had some shortcomings. In 1956, the Coast Guard intended to close the station, but kept it running after listening to protests from Columbia River bar pilots.
If you walk the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse Loop Trail, you’ll be able to see both lighthouses, as well as some seriously stunning scenery.
Arin Wicke / alltrails.com The trail is 4.2 miles in length, although you’re always welcome to just walk part of it.
The loop takes you past other pieces of history as well, like bunkers from an old military fort.
Nick Comparone / alltrails.com Coupled with the old growth forest, freshwater and saltwater marshes, and wildlife, this nature walk can be downright magical.
And of course, quite a bit of the trail offers sweeping ocean views.
Bronek Grulich / alltrails.com If you have the time, check out Washington’s own Waikiki Beach – it’s the only swimmable beach on the peninsula.
Getting an up-close-and-personal glance at two historic lighthouses is pretty special.
Danielle Sullivan / alltrails.com We’re lucky to be able to enjoy Washington’s beautiful coastline in this way.
To access this stunning loop, you’ll need a Discovery Pass.
Kyle Finnell / alltrails.com Just head to Cape Disappointment State Park and follow signs for the trailhead. Make sure to stop by the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center for more information on the area.
Mary Barwick / alltrails.com
It was built after mariners complained that the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse was obscured by approaching ships.
Nick Comparone / alltrails.com
The lighthouse initially had some shortcomings. In 1956, the Coast Guard intended to close the station, but kept it running after listening to protests from Columbia River bar pilots.
Arin Wicke / alltrails.com
The trail is 4.2 miles in length, although you’re always welcome to just walk part of it.
Nick Comparone / alltrails.com
Coupled with the old growth forest, freshwater and saltwater marshes, and wildlife, this nature walk can be downright magical.
Bronek Grulich / alltrails.com
If you have the time, check out Washington’s own Waikiki Beach – it’s the only swimmable beach on the peninsula.
Danielle Sullivan / alltrails.com
We’re lucky to be able to enjoy Washington’s beautiful coastline in this way.
Kyle Finnell / alltrails.com
Just head to Cape Disappointment State Park and follow signs for the trailhead. Make sure to stop by the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center for more information on the area.
Address: 244 Robert Gray Drive, Ilwaco, WA, 98624
Exercising is always a lot more fun when breathtaking views are involved. These short and sweet hikes are full of them.
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