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Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse

Ilwaco, Washington

5.0/5
based on 4 reviews

Details

Distance

1.5 miles

Elevation Gain

500 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Sarah Horn

Within a mile stretch you are exposed to a ton of history and natural beauty: Fort Canby, Deadman's Cove and Cape Disappointment lighthouse.

Cape Disappointment State Park is nearly 2,000 acres of old growth temperate forest located at the mouth of the Columbia River that contains lakes, coves, two lighthouses, and military forts. One of the forts and lighthouses is Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment lighthouse, which date back to the Civil War Era.

The out and back hike ends at the lighthouse and along the way you'll come across Fort Canby, which you can explore for free, Lewis and Clarke Interpretive Center, and Deadman's Cove. The Interpretive Center is perched right on the Pacific Ocean with amazing viewpoints of the ocean and cliffs below.

This short hike is rich with maritime, military and Native American history...not to be missed.

If you want to make this an adventure an overnight, check out Camp at Cape Disappointment.

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Beach
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Scenic

Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse Reviews

I’ve been here three times for a reason - absolutely magical place filled with moss, dreamy tree scapes, the ocean and little hidden gems. I recommend 10/10. One of the best places I’ve ever been.

We had the beach all to ourself! We made a huge seesaw out of the wood on the beach and played like little kids haha. It’s a must see! We hiked into the beach then up to the lighthouse and stopped and checked out all the history that this along the trail. It’s all pretty amazing

This is my mom’s favorite area to camp. It’s full of history and fun and I adore it.

Dead Man's Cove is an absolute must for anyone visiting the coast, it feels like you're the only one who has ever found it.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Camp at Cape Disappointment

Explore Cape Dissapointment's North Head Lighthouse

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Peter Iredale Shipwreck, Fort Stevens SP

Coffenbury Lake Trail

Airport Dike Trail