Hiking July 2012

Dungeness Spit and Lighthouse

At 5.5 miles in length, the Dungeness Spit is the world's longest naturally occurring sandspit and home to the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is a sanctuary for over 250 species of birds, 41 species of land mammals and eight species of water mammals. Its trails and picnic areas offer breathtaking views of the beaches, Dungeness harbor and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Location

Dungeness Spit and Lighthouse Sequim, WA 98382
United States
48° 4' 46.3332" N, 123° 6' 6.6384" W
See map: Google Maps

Cape Flattery Trail

As you near Neah Bay, look for tufted puffin nesting on the sea stacks from spring to early summer, and common murres perched on Tatoosh Island. Look in the water for bobbing sooty shearwaters. During the spring thousands of migrating hawks, including red-tail and sharp-shinned hawks, kettle over Cape Flattery before flying across the Strait to Vancouver Island. Occasionally, large flocks of 200 to 300 sandhill cranes entertain lucky observers with their graceful formations and mysterious trilling.

Location

Cape Flattery Neah Bay, WA 98357
United States
48° 21' 57.4344" N, 124° 36' 41.7744" W
See map: Google Maps

Sekiu Trail

Also known as "One-Mile Beach," this straight, relatively level saltwater beach trail connects beautiful, rugged slate caves at the east and Eagle Point two miles to the west. Boaters fish near the trail, unaware of the old abandoned railroad grade that runs the length of the hillside above. The flat and forested trail, an easy walk from Sekiu resorts, provides access to the solitude of sand and surf. Vistas from the trail stretch across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Vancouver Island.

Location

WA
United States
See map: Google Maps

The Extraordinary Shi Shi Beach

Perhaps the most dramatic beach in Washington State.

Shi Shi Beach is located west of Neah Bay. Shi Shi (pronounced shy-shy) was named "best nature beach" by the Travel Channel. It's a day trip you'll remember. Shi Shi is an unspoiled beach and is reached by driving 66 miles from Port Angeles, through ClallamBay-Sekiu and on through Neah Bay, then followed by a 3.3-mile hike. The trip is well worth the time and one can enjoy the scenic beauty of Hwy 112.

Location

Shi Shi Beach WA
United States
See map: Google Maps