Cape Disappointment State Park offers a network of great coastal hiking trails in addition to sections of Discovery Trail. North Head, at 1.8 miles, is the longest. Look for mossy old-growth Sitka spruce, giant ferns, and beautiful views of the North Head lighthouse. The trail is known for being very muddy, especially in the spring and early summer. If muddy hikes are an issue, try the Coastal Forest Loop Trail, accessed from the parking area north of the Cape Disappointment Store. To locate the North Head trailhead, display your Discover Pass and enter the park at the main entrance (opposite the Cape Disappointment Store). Turn right on Fort Canby Road for approx. ⅓ mile and look for parking and the North Head Trail on the right. The McKenzie Head trail starts on the left. A Discover Pass is required.
Local’s tip: Pre-order from Serious Pizza in Ilwaco ahead of your hike so your hand tossed, wood fired pizza will be ready for pickup when you’re done.
